WELCOME BACK SAGE

Earlier this year, we hung out at ESPN's campus to catch up with some of the ladies of SportsCenter. We created our fashion editorial with them throughout their day as well as interviewing them on the various shows they were on.

This month, we had lunch with one of our favorite sportscasters growing up, Sage Steele. You may know her from ESPN SportsCenter (and we're excited that she is back on the network starting August 28th with SportsCenter AM), but one of our co-founders enjoyed watching her in their market covering local sports! We took some time in between Sage's move back to CT from Arizona, prepping for her show with her team to find out more about how she got into the industry, who she cheers for, what it's like to be back on the network and how she takes some time for herself!

ATHLEISURE MAG: What was your path to becoming a sports broadcaster?

SAGE STEELE: Well it's something that I knew I wanted to do when I was young as I was 12 years old. I knew that as a daughter of an athlete and I had 2 brothers and I was an athlete myself. I just knew that I wouldn't be able to play sports competitively past high school so the second best thing to be around it was to be able to talk about it with these athletes. I was just talking with my boss about this, the reason that we all - these sports fans love sports is that obviously, it's about where we are from and about our teams. For 3 hours on a Sunday, you're watching a football game and nothing else matters. It's not about your race, your age, your
religion, your gender - none of it matters, we're just fans of that team! It's beautiful and I love how sports just brings us together no matter what. And I just wanted to be a part of that. Now it's 22 years in the making - I have been in this for 22 years! It's been a very long, uphill climb,
but ESPN was always my dream. Sometimes I couldn't believe that it has been 10 years that I achieved my dream and that I am still in it!

AM: What do you think the current state of women in sports media is?

SS: Oh gosh it's come so far. It almost cracks me up when people say, "oh women, women" and I always say that yes we need more women, but do you not realize how far we have come? Not that it's enough, but I mean I was always the only woman in the lockerroom. For years - always
- that has changed drastically. Big networks specifically are looking for women to fill these roles on air. Years ago, that would have never happened! ESPN literally, doesn't think twice about hiring a woman. Is it the right person period? I am really proud of how far we have all
come. I just think now it's second nature. No one thinks, "wow they have a woman on SportsCenter". It's been like that for a very long time.

AM: Who are your favorite teams?

SS: It's funny because it's rotated through the years because I am an army brat and didn't have a home town so to speak. The first NFL team I fell in love with was the Denver Broncos because we lived in Colorado and we had come from Europe in 1984. That was during the Orange Crush,
John Elway and the Super Bowl years. Once again, it confirmed what I wanted to do for a living because I was in awe of how an entire state could come to a standstill on a Sunday and all be screaming and yelling for the same team and that was when I really fell in love with sports.

Otherwise, the NBA Pacers that was the first NBA team I really covered. I went to school in Indiana and went to high school there so I loved the Colts and of course College Basketball, I'm
a Hoosier. I have to say that I root for some of those teams, but at the end of the day, maybe because I'm older and jaded, but I don't root for teams per se but now it's for people. It's about
the people that I have met and those that I know are good humans and not just great athletes and good coaches. That's what it has come down to now - focusing on certain people.

AM: You're coming back to ESPN SportsCenter, what was it like the first time you worked with the network and what's it like coming back?

SS: Gosh well the first time was 10 years ago and I cannot believe how much the campus has changed and grown. But then again, it's also about how much I have changed - I was scared to death coming here 10 years ago! I really was! I was 10 years younger - only 34 and I had 3 babies under the age of 4. I was just in a different phase and pretty stressed out. I guess now I am pretty stressed out for other reasons because now my kids are teenagers and it's a different kind of stress. I have grown so much through the years here at ESPN. It's overwhelming sometimes, because I know I've become just a better broadcaster because of doing it. Just like in any industry you just have to get to the point that you're in your own zone and you don't really listen to what other people say or think about you especially today in the world of social media. You know if you have done a good job at the end of the day when the executives bring you back for more, then you know that overall you have done a really good job.

It's been such a whirlwind and not just 22 years of my career but specifically at ESPN for the last 10, I've done so many things and so many events and it's been really awesome to just represent this  company as I'm so thankful.

AM: You start on Aug 28th, what can we expect when we watch SportsCenter:AM for the relaunch and what takes place in this show that is different than the other SportsCenter's throughout the day?

SS: This is the first thing that people wake up to. A lot of times, people have to o to bed they have lives and they have not been able to see results of all the games that they have cared about or their favorite athletes that they follow. So you're going to wake up to highlights
and analysis and a pretty fast paced show that catches you up on what you missed last night and helping you to look ahead on what to expect for the day of sports.

There are three of us as hosts me, Randy Scott and Jay Harris. We're really good friends. So it's a three hour show and we need all three of us, that's for sure! I think it's rare these days to have
three people that are truly friends that are hosting a national show of any kind. Fast paced, highlights, analysis - we're going to laugh and have fun. We're talking about sports and yes,
there are some serious conversations these days but mostly it's fun. We're talking about sports for a living! You will get some opinion in there as well, maybe more than when I started at ESPN 10 years ago, but it's not about us, it's about the highlights, serving the viewers and kind of giving them something to start their day with. If they're at the coffee machine at work, they can say, "gosh did you see what the Bears did last night?" We're giving them information, tools and just stuff to talk about. Because at the end of the day, sports is an escape which is my true belief! That's what we hope to provide to help everyone begin their day.

AM: What are you most excited about now that you're back at ESPN?

SS: I'm excited about talking about all the sports again. I have loved the last 4 years of talking about the NBA. The last 9 months or so I got back on the road with SportsCenter on the Road
covering everything from the Super Bowl, Masters - you name it. My main focus for the last 4 years has been the NBA and I am more in love with it than I have ever been before but, I have
missed football and college basketball - to be able to talk about that again. I have such a history with these sports in covering it during my career in various markets that I can't wait to get back to that while hanging on to all of my NBA stuff as well as it's important to me. I'll just add that I'm still going to be going on the road with SportsCenter on the Road. That means so much to me because I thrive in the chaos of the road. I love it when I'm standing court side before Game 5 of the NBA Finals with Kevin Durant, Stephen Curry and Lebron James warming up and somehow I have to stay focused and on task and host an hour long show and do interviews - that's the chaos that I just love! I really wanted to hang on to that aspect of it as well. So lots of in-studio and on the road as well.

AM: We enjoyed having lunch with you and getting to know you, what are your favorite workouts or activities that you do to stay toned and in shape?

SS: I honestly think that my stress forces me to stay in shape. I have to have an outlet especially since there is so much stress. There's travel as I'm always on airplanes a lot. I will say that I do eat pretty well and that's important to me and especially with having kids and trying to set a good example.

Sometimes it's about having a 10 minute workout in a hotel room - literally! Fortunately, there's no TV cameras or mirrors to see what I'm wearing or doing. And if I only have those 10 minutes, then that is what I will do! It sets the tone for my day - hey I'm 44 so I have to work on it. I like to eat well and stay active doing something. I am really looking forward to having a set schedule now that I am back in CT because now I can get on a set schedule with workouts
as well and not just figuring out how to squeeze them in depending on time zone or based on what the hotel gym has. I have done a lot of boot camps during the years. I am really interested
in trying pilates and yoga as I have never done them before at all. I think I need that in my life for my body and my brain.

AM: When you're not at work what's your personal style when you're out and about with your family or taking personal time for yourself?

SS: Right now, jeans and flats. My favorite shirts are by Rails, they're just casual shirts. I love flannels and denim. Many times my hair is up, I wear very little makeup - I don't know, I'm really
casual and simple. I'm in the shower and out of the house in 25 minutes. Maybe it's because I have to dress up so often to put makeup on and to care about what I look like.

Hey, when I wear what I want to wear, I feel like it's presentable and cute - I can go to dinner in this. But I could also go to my kid's basketball game and not feel overdressed. Having that
flexibility is important to me. I'm just really, really casual. Sometimes, my mom says, "Sage you're going to the grocery store, you need to dress up a little bit and make sure that you put
some blush on." And I'm like, "mom, you're lucky that I don't have my baseball cap on today!"

It's all about being TOTALLY casual and having a balance from what I have to do when I'm at work and have to present myself as somewhat glamorous. You fake it until you make it!

AM: How do you take time for yourself to recharge and just to come up for air?

SS: That's what I need to work on because right now, it's not enough. That's honestly the biggest thing on my list now that I am coming back to a set schedule in CT. Mon - Thurs set hours and off by 11am. Up early because I have to figure out the sleep patterns first! In the past, I have done a lot of horseback riding - being an equestrian has been a big part of my life. I don't know and I'm so glad that you asked because I have to figure it out. For sure, I know I have to keep myself mentally healthy as well as physically. But I don't think of taking time for
myself and that's probably my biggest fault. So if you have any suggestions, I will take them from anyone and anywhere! Maybe yoga will be that for me. I need to figure it out for sure!

We're so excited to see Sage on SportsCenter AM starting Aug 28th as well as SportsCenter on the Road. You can also catch her on 2018 Miss America co-hosting with ABC's The Bachelor,
Chris Harrison on Sept 10th in Atlantic City.

Read more from the Aug Issue and read Welcome Back Sage in mag.

KEEPING IT SIMPLE WITH KATIE AUSTIN

Growing up, we remember watching Denise Austin as her fitness DVDs ensured that we targeted areas of our body that we wanted to optimize. Her videos included positivity, fun outfits, beach locales when she was outside of her studio and Katie Austin appeared on set from time to time as a child.

Clearly, Katie is all grown up and is continuing in her mom's footsteps. We caught up with Katie to find out what brought her to the fitness industry, what we can expect from her fitness methods and more.

ATHLEISURE MAG: We know your mom (clearly) as we grew up watching our mom's work out to Denise Austin, when did you have that moment that you knew you wanted to delve into the
fitness industry?

KATIE AUSTIN: It was never a moment it was more like steps I took in life to realize! Ever since I was little, I grew up watching my mom film her shows and got to travel with her to all these different cool locations. My mom always tells me that even when I was 3 years old I’d sit and watch her film as my sister would be playing in the pool or catching lizards. She said she knew
then that I’d be into it! BUT it wasn’t until college that I thought of the fitness industry as a career. After I moved on from playing D1 lacrosse at USC, I decided to do weekly fitness segments on the college station. After a great reaction from my student segments for a year, I decided to start a blog. And it started from there.

AM: Having a fitness icon such as your mom, what did you learn from her that you have applied to your unique mark in the industry?

KA: I feel like there are three big things I have learned from her.

1. Always be positive- no matter what. People look up to you for that light.

2. Make your workouts practical for your target demographic. She knows exactly what the regular girl wants and can do for their daily lifestyle.

3. Sounds cliché, but always stay true to yourself! Be authentic, and just be you. Because people will love the real YOU.

AM: Tell us about Get Fit With Katie.com and what one can expect from this membership workout site.

KA: So my site is still kind of new!! I just launched my membership program about 2 and a half months ago. It’s really exciting for me because it’s a subscription plan for all my followers. Meaning it’s a big library of all my workout videos, 50+, and counting because I always add new ones! So you can either pick and choose what workout you’re feeling up to that day whether
that’s abs, booty, cardio, etc. OR follow my exact workouts I give you in my Daily Workout Calendar- like a guide within the subscription!

AM: What is your goal with Get Fit With Katie.com and where do you see it in 5
years?

KA: My dream for forever has been to My dream for forever has been to have a TV show. I studied TV production at USC and just fell in love with it. I actually am a sports host for Fox on
the side as well, so combining my love for hosting and TV with fitness is the goal. So to have a fitness/wellness TV show like my mom did would be my 5 year plan!

AM: Everyone is focused on how they can have energy packed meals that they can take with them for lunch, what are 5 dishes for the work week that are easy to make that can be enjoyed
on the run?

KA: Well I’m all about keeping meals SIMPLE. In my food guide, my recipes are all 7 ingredients or less, so it’s never anything too complicated. Usually I do a grain (brown rice- or quinoa, not technically a grain but I consider it one), with a healthy fat (avocado), with a protein (grilled chicken or salmon) and 2 different kinds of veggies (like zucchini and carrots).

AM: What is your personal style when you are working out versus when you're going out to brunch?

KA: When I’m working out I love being colorful, I love wearing bright sports bras and leggings. I also LOVE high-waisted workout leggings because they hold everything in!! For brunch, I would usually wear a sundress with some wedges! I also love wearing one piece leotards right now.
It’s funny because I always wear my mom’s old 80’s workout leotards to go out in, and ALWAYS get compliments and questions on where they’re from. I have to use that Mean Girls line... “It’s
my mom’s from the 80s.. Vintage!”

AM: When you work out, what is on your playlist?

KA: I love the two opposite types of music. Hip hop/rap or country. So usually Drake, Future, Nicki Minaj, OR Little Big Town, Maren Morris, or Jason Aldean!!

AM: What are 3 of your favorite workouts and what areas are they targeting?

KA: I love HIIT [High intensity interval training], dance cardio, and basic toning moves. Dance cardio is a great way to have fun while burning calories, and my toning moves (like leg lifts, bicep curls, etc.) are a great way to sculpt my muscles. But, I definitely see most results with HIIT workouts. Usually, my HIIT workouts are a combination of cardio and toning, and they’re QUICK! So they’re more intense in a shorter amount of time to make them super effective.

Read more from the Aug Issue and see Keeping it Simple with Katie Austin in mag

AALIYAH X MAC

We wlll always be fans of Aaliyah who was an icon in R&B and hiphop in the 90/00's. Whether you loved her music, dancing, lyrics, music videos and more - she had a charisma, grace and of course she was beautiful. MAC Cosmetics announced that next summer, we'll be able to get our hands on their capsule collection of this entertainer! There are very few details but we're already thinking about next summer!

We're hoping for glossy nude lip hues, wine color lip stains and great smokey shades for the eyes! We'll keep you in the loop on this one in a million collection that we're already imagining in our collection.

MIAMI SWIM WITH AUDRINA PARTRIDGE X PREY

If you were a fan of MTV's reality show "The Hills", then you know and love this brunette stunner, Audrina Partridge. She had an easy sense of style and could always rock a bikini! After the show ended in 2010, like many of her co-stars, she went on to being in her own spin-off show, other TV opportunities and this month she launched Prey Swim for Resort 2017 at Miami Swim! We took a moment to talk to this busy mom about what she's been up to, her collection and how she keeps it all together.

ATHLEISURE MAG: It's not a surprise to us that you launched a swim line, how did it all come together?

AUDRINA PARTRIDGE: Everytime I traveled I was inspired by so many things and my lens would capture it! It didn't matter if I was in Mexico, South Korea or Costa Rica - there were so many things to see. I'm inspired by colors, textures and patterns. As I continue my collections, they will have an element of what inspired me or what I experienced while there.

AM: We know you love the beach - what are your favorites?

AP: I love Costa Rica, Hawaii, and Mexico. Australia has beautiful beaches in its Gold Coast and Byron Bay. Heaven on Earth can be found in Bora Bora!

AM: What is the inspiration behind your line and what can we expect from Prey Swim?

AP: I'm a Bohemian girl and love that lifestyle. I also love earth tones and patterns. Even though I have never been to Morocco (and really want to go) - it felt so natural to start here as my inspiration. I also love that a lot of the hardwear that we use in the line is actual shark teeth on the end of strings! I love the ocean, my husband (Australian extreme sports star, Corey Bohan) surfs and I love sharks as I feel that they are not our enemies and that we need them!

I also feel that my line is transitional as it can be worn from day to night depending on how you pair it! I want every woman who wears this line to feel good as these pieces will hug you in the right places!

The line has three collections: The Marrakech Collection (Summer 2017) focusing on Prey Swim's signature styles and is a nod to Marrakech in the 60's and 70's, as well as The Rolling Stones, The Riviera Collection (Pre-Fall 2017), which showcases the effortless style of The French Riviera in the 50's and 60's, and The Joya Collection (Resort 2018), which is inspired by Peru - the mecca of boho fashion in the 70's.

AM: What does it mean to you to show at this season's Miami Swim Week?

AP: I was so excited to show Prey Swim to Miami Swim Week! This is something I dreamed of when planning our initial brand debut, so to be showing here so soon after launching is a dream come true. There are so many amazing swim designers showing collections that I
have been a fan of for quite some time, so to be showing my line in their company, as a fellow swim designer, is an honor. Miami is such an amazing city with so many incredible cultures represented, so it is the perfect setting to showcase Prey collections, which draw inspirations from cultures and countries all over the world.

Read more from the July Issue and see Miami Swim with Audrina Partridge X Prey in mag.

MARKET MAKER | SARA EISEN

Our cover girl is one busy lady as Sara Eisen is the Co-Anchor of not one, but two of CNBC's shows - Worldwide Exchange and Squawk on the Street! Sara joined the network in December 2013, as a correspondent focusing on the global consumer. You can see her each day as the Co-Anchor of "Squawk on the Street" at 10AM EST, which airs from Post 9 at the New York Stock Exchange. In January of last year, she was named Co-Anchor of the network's "Worldwide Exchange," which also airs daily from 5-6AM EST from CNBC's Global Headquarters in Englewood Cliffs, N.J. 

Around Athleisure Mag, we have CNBC on throughout the day at the office and loved learning more about this financial powerhouse who brings us what's going on across verticals in such an inspired way. 

ATHLEISURE MAG: Tell us your background and how you got into broadcasting and ultimately to CNBC?

SARA EISEN: After college at NYU, I went to journalism school at Northwestern's Medill School. While most students do a semester in DC, I went a different direction and spent the time in Hong Kong. I got an internship at Bloomberg TV in Asia and have been doing business news ever since. Initially, I worked as a production assistant, but kept raising my hand for on-air opportunities in my spare time on TV and radio. I went on to anchor the morning show in New York, Bloomberg Surveillance, before moving over to CNBC. But truth be told, I've wanted to be on TV ever since I grew up watching Oprah and taped a mock talk show at a local public access channel studio for a school project in high school. 

AM: We know that you enjoy talking about finance, what is it about this industry that makes you so passionate about it and do you have a specific topic within it that you really enjoy focusing on?

SE: My favorite topic within finance is the currency market, because it's the largest, most important market in the world. It reflects economics, politics, deal transactions, geopolitics and more. It was actually my excitement around learning about currencies during a college internship at Forextv.com that led me to pursue financial journalism. My other area of focus is global consumer companies, with a particular interest in sports apparel and shoes: Nike, Adidas, Under Armour, Lululemon. I love how they touch pop culture, fashion, sports and consumer economics simultaneously. 

AM: We love that when we're watching CNBC, you really are talking about a number of industries from fashion, tech, agriculture, etc. - and you have a fresh and fun way to present it to those of varying levels of understanding - how important is it to make these topics relatable to a wide, as well as a niche audience?

SE: It's very important! Ultimately, financial markets are just a reflection of all the real life things happening around us: whether it's shifting consumption from diet soda to healthier beverages, what trends work in online retail or just the styles of leggings that resonate with consumers each season. Those stories don't just matter to CNBC, but they're the everyday trends we all live each day. Investing and finance can be much more accessible if you focus on the areas you're interested in and understand. 

AM: What would you tell young women to encourage them to get into the world of finance and specifically finance broadcasting?

SE: My number one tip: become an expert, whether that's in the world of finance or journalism... or any other discipline for that matter. Having a niche is very valuable. For instance, during the financial crisis, when I was an intern at Bloomberg, I raised my hand to tell stories about the foreign exchange market at a time when currencies were fluctuating wildly.  I knew that subject well and eventually, my editors and others in the newsroom turned to me when currencies were the big market story of the moment, and they still do! Be the smartest person in the room about something, no matter how small the niche. 

I'd also say: don't let traditionally male-led industries dissuade you. Sometimes, there's an instinct to compete with the women around you, but being supportive, finding female mentors and passing it forward can all be empowering and rewarding. 

AM: Walk us through what it is like to prepare as a Co-Anchor for Squawk on the Street and Worldwide Exchange.

SE: I have a ton of support on both shows. We have a team of producers who work with me and my co-anchors to book guests and put together a plan for the next day's shows. By the time I'm off air one day, I have to start focusing on what we're doing tomorrow: planning the questions I want to ask guests, reading about the latest stories in finance, and politics we might want to include, and always talking to my producers about what we can be doing to fine tune the show before it starts. The hardest thing about prep: as much as you can be ready for everything planned, you also have to be ready to pivot on a dime to breaking news and the unexpected.
 

AM: As you do two shows every day, what is your day like?

SE: Well, my alarm goes off every day at 3:30am. I'm in the car on the way to CNBC HQ soon after, before getting my hair and makeup done ahead of the 5am start to my first show, “Worldwide Exchange.” In the car and the makeup chair, I'm reading the morning's news and emailing with my producers on the show lineup, the guests we have, the stories we're covering. I get off set at 6am and then travel from CNBC in New Jersey to the New York Stock Exchange ahead of my 10am show, “Squawk on the Street.” The hardest thing is maintaining a good eating schedule. I make sure to have cereal and coffee before the 5am show and then whole wheat toast with almond butter and bananas when I get down to the NYSE. At noon, I'm off air for the day. I fill my afternoons with networking meetings. It can be hard on my schedule to make evening plans during the week. Typically, my husband and I stay home to make dinner together and watch a little TV: no financial news, more like “The Bachelor.”

AM: What's your hectic time of year in terms of covering the world of finance?

SE: The financial news calendar can be similar to the school year: quiet during the winter holidays, quiet over the summer, busy all the other times. But particularly these days, with Britain leaving the EU and the excitement around the Trump presidency, there's never a slow day. I never take more than a week off for that reason. When my husband and I got married, he had to beg me to take off more time for our honeymoon.

AM: How do you maintain balance between such a hectic schedule, being a wife and taking personal time for yourself?

SE: Multi-tasking. 24 hours just aren't enough. I'll be making dinner plans during the commercial breaks of my shows. I'll be trying to book interviews in between exercises at the gym. It helps that my husband also works in the same industry. We don't get to talk about what we're each working on, but we're understanding of the pace and scheduling challenges of each other's jobs. 

AM: What has been your favorite story to cover to date?

SE: When Japan suffered the devastation of the 2011 earthquake and ensuing tsunami, I traveled there to cover the aftermath of the disaster. Very quickly, the focus turned to the developing crisis at the Fukushima nuclear plant. I would spend the days reporting and the nights doing live segments for daytime programs in the U.S. It was scary, exhausting, but also an amazing opportunity to be part of an unfolding, uncertain story that the world was watching.

AM: Who have been some of your favorite guests that you chatted with on air?

SE: Steph Curry, for sure. I've spent a lot of time with him, talking about the brand he's helping to build at UnderArmour. He's incredibly thoughtful and down-to-earth for someone living an insane level of success and fame. I also love interviewing Christine Lagarde, the Managing Director of the IMF. She's smart, poised and an incredible example for women everywhere. 

AM: When you're not on air, what can we find you doing?

SE: New York City will always be my favorite activity. I love to explore the city's restaurants, bars, shops and walk the streets as much as I can. 

AM: What's your personal style on air and how does that differ when you're out and about with girlfriends or date night with your husband?

SE: Early on, I found it was easier for me to stick with dresses rather than piecing together shirts, tops and pants. I like bright colors, interesting necklines, usually knee length... and always pair them with (very) high heels. There's a great wardrobe team at CNBC that helps me pull it together.

Outside of work, I'm much more laid-back. Leggings and t-shirts on the weekends, with my favorite Yeezy sneakers. My husband is a bit of a sneakerhead, so he makes sure I'm always current on the latest trends. For going out on weekends to dinner with friends, I still try to keep it pretty casual: usually Rag & Bone jeans and Rebecca Taylor tops are my go-tos. 

AM: What fitness studios do you enjoy going to?

SE: I belong to Equinox and try to get in to see my trainer as many times each week as I can. It can be hard to squeeze into my schedule. But the good news about waking up at 3:30am each day is that Equinox is relatively quiet at 2pm!
 

AM: What are three must-have beauty products that you swear by that keep your skin looking so great?

SE: Because I use so many products for my job on-air, I've recently been transitioning to more natural and chemical-free cosmetics. My favorite facial moisturizer is Belif Moisturizing Bomb. After scrubbing off a day's worth of camera makeup, this product leaves my skin feeling refreshed and moisturized, but not greasy. Speaking of scrubbing off a day's worth of camera makeup, Tarte Fresh Eyes makeup remover wipes are invaluable. Anyone who knows me knows my favorite beauty product is bronzer. Jane Iredale bronzing powder gives me a natural look. 

AM: What's currently on your playlist for your summer soundtrack?

SE: I'm constantly listening to the new Kendrick Lamar album... especially some of the slower songs like “Love and Loyalty.” Then again, my summer playlist features many of my favorites from recent years like Robyn, Charli XCX and Kesha. 
 

AM: Do you have charities or organizations that you support that you would like for us to know more about?

SE: Yes, I support the Simon Wiesenthal Center, an incredible organization that teaches the lessons of the Holocaust and confronts both anti-semitism and hate of all kinds. I have a personal connection as my grandparents were survivors of the Holocaust.

I also am involved with Room to Read, a remarkable charity that promotes girls' education and children's literacy in underserved communities in the developing world.

AM: If you weren't working in your current field, what occupation would you consider working in?

SE: If I wasn't covering finance and economics, I'd want to be working in finance and economics  They're what I love. My ultimate dream would be to serve as a central banker. They're the most powerful people in the world!
 

Our shoot of Sara Eisen took place at 1185 Park Ave at Penthouse A. Currently on the market, we sat down with Louise Phillips Forbes to find out more about this property!

ATHLEISURE MAG: There are so many great aspects to this apartment from its layout to the INCREDIBLE views from the penthouse – what can you tell us about this property?

LOUISE PHILLIPS FORBES: What’s not to envy in this exceptional home?! Breathtaking panoramic skyline views as far south as the Empire State Building and the Freedom Tower, and stunning sunsets over Central Park, provide the backdrop to this expansive penthouse with 4-bedrooms, 1-staff room, and 4.5-bathrooms, plus a beautifully landscaped, private wrap-around terrace and large picture windows providing terrace views from every room. With more than 1,700 square feet of outdoor space alone, it's simply paradise. Sun-drenched, bright and cheerful, this one-of-a-kind home has an extensive floor plan with grand, open rooms for entertaining complemented by ceiling heights over 11-feet. 
 
The bedroom wing offers a private escape with very spacious rooms. I’m especially enamored with the master bedroom suite!  It’s really rare to find one as big as this one. The peaceful retreat in the corner of the home provides double exposures and is lined with elegant Venetian plastered walls. It contains two substantial walk-in closets and a private entrance to the terrace. The luxurious spa-like en-suite bathroom features gorgeous natural stone tiles, a custom vanity, free-standing deep soaking tub with Jacuzzi jets, and a glass rain shower. It’s what I call heaven on earth and the perfect escape!

AM: What amenities are offered in this building for residents (common areas, services, etc.)?

LPF: Located in a prestigious residential area, 1185 Park Avenue was designed in 1929 by the renowned architectural firm of Schwartz & Gross, boasting an impressive Gothic triple-arch entrance with a circular driveway. Today, this New York treasure is recognized as one of the few grand courtyard buildings left in Manhattan. The friendly and professional full-time staff provide an unparalleled level of white-glove service and the amenities, include 24-hour doormen and staff, concierge, state-of-the-art fitness center, children's playroom, courtyard garden, bike room, private storage, and a pet-friendly attitude. 

AM: Tell us about the neighborhood that is directly around this building (Whole Foods, workout studios, eateries, etc.) and what neighborhood is this considered?

LFP: A premier residence nestled in the heart of Carnegie Hill, this elegant gem is conveniently located near Central Park and Museum Mile with easy access to world-class exhibits at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Guggenheim Museum, the Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian Design Museum, and the Jewish Museum, among others. Fifth Avenue and Madison Avenue beckon with high-end boutique shopping and fine art galleries, plus there is an abundance of distinguished restaurants, charming cafes, gourmet grocers, supermarkets, Equinox Fitness Club, the 92nd Street Y, and many popular retail destinations.

AM: For those that are interested in purchasing this unit, how can they find out more information? 

LFP: It would be very easy to call this stunning apartment home given the grandeur of the rooms, an abundance of private outdoor space, and views throughout. To schedule an appointment, people can contact me directly and I will be happy to give them a private tour and discuss the purchasing details. I can be reached via email at lphillips@halstead.com or at 212-381-3329.
 
AM: Where can readers find out about additional properties that you represent?
 
LFP: Visit my website at and click on the tab for “My Listings”. You can view pictures, 3D floor plans, and videos along with detailed descriptions of each property I’m working with from downtown to uptown.
 

Read more from the July Issue and see Market Maker | Sara Eisen in mag.

ATHLEISURE MAG | JUL ISSUE

We're excited to share our July issue of Athleisure Mag with our celebrity cover, Sara Eisen who is the Co-Anchor of CNBC's Worldwide Exchange and Squawk on the Street! This issue includes interviews with Audrina Partridge of The Hills as she debuts her new swim line, Prey at Miami Swim, we talk with JJ Dancer and the luxeFIT team for their upcoming Labor Day retreat in St Martin and we chat with Cubavera's (a Perry Ellis International brand) Director of Hispanic Sportswear and Marketing. 

As always, we have a number of features including 2 spas for this month's ATHLEISURE LIST, we share products that use Capuaçu, ATHLEISURE BEAUTY, an array of roundups in fashion and style and great tips on nail care and innovations in feminine products.

Read more from the July Issue here!

WE ARE PROUD

NYC PRIDE took place June 16th - 25th to bring the community together under this year's message, "We Are Proud". With an array of events offered - kicking off with The Rally, there
was something for everyone from the Pride Luminaries brunch which was held at The Garden at acclaimed David and Burke Kitchen, which honors business leaders that  make an impact on
LGBT workplace equality, Family Movie Night and a number of parties and performances. Of course, The March is another key event that took place that is one of the closing activities of this week. This year's March included over 45,000 marchers, over 500 marching groups as they covered 2.1 miles of the city! This year, ABC7 broadcast the parade for the the first time.

One of the exciting events that took place this year - PRIDE ISLAND provided entertainment across various genres on each day of the weekend. The kickoff of the music festival included Patti Labelle and Deborah Cox for a night that embraced R&B. Electronica hit the stage on Saturday with a number of acts, including Grammy nominated duo Tegan and Sara, Gallant
and Dimitri from Paris to name a few. Sunday night brought Pier 26 to the next level with Grammy Award winner Nelly Furtado.

A number of dance parties took place throughout the week. Notably, there were those that were dedicated to women dancing the night away such as Teaze (with Orange is the New Black's Taryn Manning who is also a DJ spinning), Moxie and Femme Fatale.

It was exciting for Athleisure Mag to be a media sponsor for this event and to share with you what was taking place throughout the week. The message of unity and having fun regardless of
who you are and just being yourself is one that we share and are happy to promote.

Read more from the June Issue and see We Are Proud in mag.

PIERRE HARDY | THE MAN OF DESIGN

Pierre Hardy is known as a phenomenal designer who sees dance in his interpretations of design whether he creates shoes and accessories for Hermès, a number of his notable collaborations and of course his namesake collection, Pierre Hardy. His love of dance, design and teaching is felt immediately upon any conversation with him. 

His career includes being an illustrator for Vanity Fair Italy and Vogue Hommes International, designer of women's shoes for Christian Dior, becoming the Creative Director for Women's and Men's shoe collection, as well as the Creative Director for the Fine Jewelry division of Hermès (he still maintains these roles with the brand), collaborating for over a decade with Nicolas Ghesquière for the women and men's collections at BALENCIAGA - and this is just the quick highlights. 

In addition to his coveted roles in the above, in 1999 he launched his own shoe line for men and women and at that time he also collaborated with a number of brands, including 3 shoe capsule collections with GAP and he partnered with NARS for a capsule collection of nail polishes and blushes.

We talked with Pierre to find out his thoughts on designing the smartwatch band for Apple Watch, what his process is like when he is designing, what it was like to launch his own namesake, his relationship with various design houses and the importance of sneakers.

ATHLEISURE MAG: You have designed with Hermès for a number of years and have created iconic prints as well as pieces for the house. What was it like to have the opportunity to create the watch, band?

PIERRE HARDY: It's a very narrow field because I just did the bracelets and leather bands. My mission was to think about what you can do with the band for the smartwatch. What was interesting for me as a designer was to link technically the watch with a high-end leather good - to make them work together. In the beginning, I was a little trepid wondering if this was a good idea - but I was wrong. In the end, it worked so well - for both of the brands I believe! The combination and perfection of how it came together and in working with the team in Paris and to have that time together was interesting.

AM: Will there be other wearable designs in your future?

PH: I believe it was just that one, but I would not say no if they asked me!

AM: Throughout your career, you have collaborated with many designers, what was it like working with them?

PH: First as a point of clarification, I would say that my position with Hermès is not a collaboration, it's more like my second house. We've known each other for such a long time now. When we came together, it was immediate and there wasn't a hierarchy. I was and am happy to be a part of the success of that house. The same can be said in working with Balenciaga. It fit and I liked, as a designer, the experimentation of what we created and it was very different as a designer.  

AM: It seems that when you design with these coveted houses that you are in a state of translation. 

PH: Absolutely, I always look to transform things into different shapes - something visible, tangible and sensible. Something you can enjoy. I'm always looking to understand as a means to design into the pieces that you enjoy. I'm always searching for something new and better. I love the pleasure and satisfaction that comes from the work.
 

AM: How did creating your own line come about?

PH: At that time, I had designed with Hermes for about 10 years and wanted to create pieces that there wasn't a place for them in my work there. I came  to the realization that I would have to create them in another space. I decided to launch 15 models in my living room and I called the press and said, "I've made some shoes, would you like to see them?" I was lucky because it worked for me!

AM: What were you looking to achieve with this line? 

PH: I was naive when I first came out with my line. Looking back at the initial offering, it was a bit rough. When you start something on your own it's so different. The American press was very enthusiastic - it was not the same in France. Neiman Marcus came and bought the first collection - miracle. I told myself that if I sold 1000 pairs of shoes I would be happy - I sold 3000! But when I first started my own line, the idea was there, but the quality wasn't there yet - we were just starting out. I started the line because I wanted newness. People look to the past to recreate but I want to do so in a new way!

AM: You're known for designing heels, bags, and jewelry, but you also design sneakers! Sneakers are on trend - do you think it will continue to evolve?

PH: Yes I design sneakers especially for men! The lines between sneakers and shoes is a blurred one now. It's one of the shoes that women have to wear now - it's our lifestyle and the way we go about our lives! You don't have to think about it and you wear it to be more comfortable and it's a key fashion item nowadays. The main thing to note about them is it's youth. It's the best shoe to wear to look younger! You win 10 years - I'm not kidding! Youth his very important and the feeling of young age is dynamic and filled with energy. I love wearing sneakers! It comes from your memory of college, efficiency, sport, dynamic speed. All of this together - makes you better!

AM: What's your favorite color?

PH: Black - I think everything is beautiful and better in black. The only color I like is red. Black is more of an efficient and theatrical color. It's physical and optical. Anything on a black background looks better and more obvious. Even my home is all black.

Read more from the June Issue and read Pierre Hardy, The Man of Design in Mag.

A FEW SIPS WITH ERIN ANDREWS

There are many ways to enjoy one of those classic summer nights with your girlfriends. We hung out on a rooftop to take a sunset pilates session and then enjoyed White Claw Hard Seltzer Water with NFL/FOX Sports sideline reporter and Co-Host of ABC's Dancing with the Stars host, Erin Andrews. We chatted with her on how she broke into the industry, her favorite teams, how she stays fit and her partnership with White Claw.

ATHLEISURE MAG: Tell us a little about your background in terms of how you got into sports as well as being a host on Dancing with the Stars?

ERIN ANDREWS: I became a sportscaster and went to school for it. I'm a huge sports fan and have been so my entire life. I'm a Daddy's Girl so yeah - it just all happened from there. I was a
contestant on Dancing with the Stars in 2009 and they came knocking on my door and said, "would you like to host the show" and I did!

AM: How is it different in preparing on the sidelines for a game, versus when you're hosting for Dancing with the Stars?

EA: For me, it's pretty much the same thing. Because for me, I prepare for sports a lot but then a lot of it - you can't prepare for during the actual game. It's unexpected, something always
happens you can't predict the outcome of the game. So you don't know what's going to happen, so you have to kind of just go with it and react as it is happening. The same can be
said for Dancing with the Stars - you don't know how someone is going to perform, what they're going to do - whether they have a wardrobe malfunction. You just kind of have to roll
with the punches.

AM: Who are your favorite teams?

EA: I was raised by a Green Bay Packer fan, a Red Sox fan, as well as a Celtics fan. Basically whoever my dad liked. He was raised in New England and he said that when he was growing up, The Patriots weren't that great of a team and they weren't really on television, but Green Bay Packers were, so he became a fan of theirs.

AM: What's your personal style when you're going out for brunch versus when you're going out with your girlfriend's for a night out?

EA: My personal style with brunch and going out is the same. It's a t-shirt and jeans. I'm very much a tomboy and not glam like this. I can't wait to get out of this and into a t-shirt and jeans
actually! So yeah, I'm very tomboyish - basically, all my t-shirts are white, grey and black. I like to rock Vans and Stan Smiths.

AM: So you're getting married - what are 3 key exercises that you do to look amazing for a wedding or are just perfect as we continue through our summer body season?

EA: I'm big into squats and I love anything that has to do with my arms. I like weighted exercise for them and I am REALLY into planks - anything like that!

AM: We've been a fan of the hard seltzer category for a few years. Why do you like hard seltzer and why did you partner with White Claw Hard Seltzer?

EA: I love being active. The feeling that I get from working out and being strong is something I am proud of. And, it’s important to me not to undo all my hard work when I want to have a drink. I love White Claw Hard Seltzer because it not only tastes great, but allows me to make better choices while still enjoying life and socializing with friends.

Read more from the June Issue and see A Few Sips with Erin Andrews in mag.

OUR FEMPIRE WITH ALYSIA REINER

This month's cover is one of our faves - actress, producer, activist and SAG Award winner - Alysia Reiner. She has been in a number of TV shows and films and we have thoroughly enjoyed seeing her each season of Netflix's Orange is the New Black as the dynamic force Natalie "Fig" Figueroa.

In addition to our cover shoot in Tribeca, we sat down to find out more about what drew her to acting, upcoming roles that she will be in, the importance of staying connected to your significant other and family no matter your schedule and her role as an activist.

ATHLEISURE MAG: We had such an amazing time shooting with you for our June cover as we've been fans of yours for years! Tell us about your background and how you got into acting.

ALYSIA REINER: AWWW Shucks! I am a native Manhattan girl and had a hard time deciding if I wanted to be a scientist or an artist - I still love both, studying human behavior and why we are who we are - I'm just curious, I guess. I love to discover, to wonder, to research, it's the joyful part of acting, the discovery.

AM: You've had a number of roles in TV and in movies, but one of our favorites is Orange is the New Black. We binged the latest season, and as fans, tell us what the process was like in trying out for the part and what process you go through to take on the character of Natalie "Fig" Figueroa.

AR: I auditioned for Alex, then Polly, then they offered me Fig and I was over the moon. It was 3 lines and I just said yes. To take on Fig, I visited prisons, spoke to wardens, spoke to other prison officials and spoke to previously incarcerated women. I also watched a ton of documentaries about prisons.

AM: What are similarities and differences between you and your OITNB character?

AR: SIMILARITES: NONE!

DIFFERENCES: The list is endless - I am happily married, a momma, an artist, an activist...

AM: You play bad women really well - what role or person would you like to play that you have yet to do?

AR: The possibilities are endless!!!!!! Doing our photo shoot for this cover I picked up that book about style and had the hit that I want to do a biopic about DIANE VREELAND! I so want to play her, she's my style hero. Also, I want Lena Dunham to direct.

AM: This past year you not only starred in, but produced the film "EQUITY," which went to Sundance and got sold to Sony Pictures Classics. How does this role as a producer challenge you, and what are you looking to achieve?

AR: I was just reading Jill Soloway's essay in LENNY LETTER "Downtime Makes Me Anxious," and I'm the same way: I just love creating. I love producing because it challenges me and works different muscles than acting does. Just like parenting - or trapezing ( yes I have - check my Instagram) - I love trying new things and challenging myself. That’s why I went on Celebrity CHOPPED recently. I love telling stories, I love hiring more women and I love changing the
appalling statistics every time I do.

AM: Positive female role models is something that we are extremely focused on at Athleisure Mag - who were your role models that assisted you in being who you are today?

AR: I find new ones every day. I was about to give you a list of actresses, producers, amazing women I love and know, but really it's the people you don't know. Like my friend Allison's mom who had the coolest arts and crafts cabinet growing up. The woman on the subway who defended another woman when she was being sexually accosted. The every day strangers who stand up for what they believe in and are courageous and unique and amazing and inspire us.
They deserve so much love and admiration, they are my role models.

AM: Activism seems like a major cornerstone of your work (in the midst of everything else) - what organizations/platforms are you associated with and have any of them been because of roles that you have taken as an actor?

AR: I lost my dad to cancer and got very active with the Cancer Support Community - I love them so much. They provide free emotional, social, and psychological support for people with cancer and their friends and family. And yes I said FREE. I was so honored that they gave me and my husband this year's Founders Award For Support.

The Women's Prison Association became my "Fig's karma charity." I love working with them, have been volunteering with them for 5 years now, made a piece of jewelry with 100 of proceeds to them, working on a new idea with them now about employing formerly incarcerated women, and they gave me the Sarah Huntington Powell award. What the Geena Davis Institute does for women in the media is soooo crucial and I love supporting them every way I can. And there are so many others!!! This could be an entirely new article! ;)

AM: During the shoot, we loved incorporating a meditation shot into the cover story, how important is this practice to you and how did you get into it?

AR: I LOVE MEDITATION. ADMISSION: I did a lot more before I had a kid. But now, I do it with my daughter, I do it at home, on the subway, I have a meditation room at home. I listen to a meditation as I wind down from the day, floss my teeth etc. I always feel like I don't have time, but somehow if you make the time, time bends and gives you more, magically.

AM: What's your personal style when you're going to set, when you're going to dinner with your family and then hitting the red carpet for an event?

AR: I have no idea - you are the stylist - help!

AM: Who are your style icons?

AR: Diana Vreeland, DVF, Valentino, Vivianne Westwood, Jenna Lyons, Stacey from Alice & Olivia, Tilda Swinton, Cate Blanchett, Emma Watson, Livia Firth, Chloe Sevigny, Natasha Lyonne, I could go on.....

AM: What are 3 exercises or methods that you do to stay so fit?

AR: 30-60-90 by Kristi Molinaro, Soulcycle and INTENSATI TABATA

AM: When you're having a busy day running around in the city, what are 3 places in NYC that we may see you pop into for lunch?

AR: Ha! I never have time to go out to lunch!

AM: After hanging out with you, you have such a mindful nature about you that seems to permeate the way you approach life as well as living within it - how important is this to you from a mental, wellness, culinary and related lifestyle aspects?

AR: When we can incorporate mindfulness into everything, it just makes every moment sweeter. Everything is more beautiful - you even see art in a garbage pile. Rats become cute. And then, of course, people think you're crazy. I don’t care.

AM: A number of our readers either work with their significant others and/or are in the same field with them. What advice would you give to those readers to assist them in having couple time?

AR: MAKE DATE NIGHTS AND STICK TO THEM!

Appreciate each other. Write love notes. Talk about the relationship. Seek outside help before you need it.

AM: How do you take time for yourself as a wife and mother, actress, producer, activist etc?

AR: Ummm….I need to work on that. I really do. :)

AM: What projects can you share with us that are coming up that we may not know about?

AR: We just wrapped season 2 of BETTER THINGS - so excited! And I did guest stars on BROAD CITY, YOUNGER and ODD MOM OUT! I am headed to Chicago in a few weeks to shoot The Pages - a political thriller, and then shooting EGG in which I star with Christina Hendricks
and Anna Camp, and I could not be more excited! #LIFEISGOOD

Our shoot with Alysia Reiner of Orange is the New Black, took place in Tribeca in a historic building. We chatted with Louise Phillips Forbes, Licensed Senior Associate Real Estate Broker at Halstead Real Estate to find out more about this property, 119 Chambers St #2.

ATHLEISURE MAG: The layout of this apartment, as well as having an elevator that opens into the home, was definitely a great feature and made it fun to shoot our June celebrity cover - what can you tell us about this property?

LOUISE PHILLIPS FORBES: What’s not to love?! It’s the quintessential downtown New York apartment as depicted in TV and movies. A split-level loft boasting 2,240 square feet with 3 large bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, and soaring 14-foot wood beamed ceilings that take your breath away. Not to mention the awesome floor-to-ceiling windows facing south and the old-world exposed brick walls in the expansive great room that also has a wood-burning fireplace.
The open, contemporary kitchen is perfect for entertaining given the large marble-top breakfast bar, but it also features custom cabinetry and high-end, stainless steel appliances. A peaceful retreat, the master bedroom suite boasts a very large walk-in custom closet and serene spa-like bathroom with a double-sink vanity, deep soaking tub, and glass-enclosed shower. Stunning hardwood floors, recently purchased LG washer & dryer, ADT alarm system, and separate thermostats in each room

AM: What makes the building special and does it offer amenities for residents?

LPF: Built in 1858, the cast-iron building at 119 Chambers Street was fully renovated using high-end materials and finishes and converted to a condominium in 2008. It’s a boutique building with just 5 units total so privacy is assured. Each apartment has a substantial room-size
storage unit and there is a fitness room downstairs.

AM: Tell us about the neighborhood that is directly around this building.

LPF: Tribeca is a very diverse and friendly neighborhood where the big city feels more like a small town, and Chambers Street is in the heart of it all. Very walkable and also bike-friendly, this area is filled with charming cafes and fine dining options, boutique shops and luxury
retailers, galleries, fitness clubs, and several local parks. There’s even a Whole Foods just a few blocks away, and Starbucks is on the corner of the block. Plus public transportation is very convenient with many local and express subways nearby, and you have easy access to the
West Side Highway enabling you to get just about anywhere in the city efficiently. It’s an ideal location for New Yorkers.

AM: Tell us about who represents this property.

LPF: I am very honored to be the broker representing this exclusive listing. I have been working in residential real estate for more than 28 years and currently hang my hat at Halstead Real Estate’s Park Avenue office, where I’m proud to lead the firm’s #1 team. My portfolio of clients includes buyers, sellers, and luxury developers all over NYC, and my career sales are in excess of $3 Billion. I consider myself more of an educator, than a sales person, and it’s a privilege to be a part of this process with people, after all, your home is the base upon which the rest of your life is built.

AM: For those that are interested in purchasing this unit, how can they find out more information?

LPF: It would be very easy to call this lovely apartment home given that it’s move-in ready. Simply bring your toothbrush! To schedule an appointment, people can contact me directly and I will be happy to give them a private tour and discuss the purchasing details. I can be reached via email at lphillips@halstead.com or at 212-381-3329.

AM: Where can readers find out about additional properties that you represent?

LPF: Visit my website and click on the tab for “My Listings”. You can view pictures, 3D floor plans, and videos along with detailed descriptions of each property I’m working with from
downtown to uptown.

Read more from June Issue and see Our Fempire in mag with Alysia Reiner of Orange is the New Black.

POP INTO GOOD HEALTH WITH CASSEY HO

It's all about balance. Looking and feeling your best is all about giving yourself what your body needs from exercise, eating right, having personal time and also getting sleep. Our lives are pretty hectic so sometimes it may be tough to make sure that we have everything that we need. We took some time to chat with Cassey Ho, who is not only the founder of Blogilates and continued on to POP Pilates.

, but travels around the country motivating others to embrace their bodies and to stay moving. We chatted with Cassey to find out more about how she got started, what her day is like and her partnership with Zzzquil and how essential sleep is to her routine to stay on top of it all.

ATHLEISURE MAG: We've been fans for years! Please tell our readers how you came to creating Blogilates?

CASSEY HO: I created Blogilates back in 2009 when I was teaching a class at 24 Hour Fitness in Los Angeles after college. I was teaching about 30-40 students every Tuesday and Thursday
night. I was about to move to Boston for my first job out of college and my students were like “what are we going to do without you during the week? No one else teaches Pop Pilates.” I decided to film a video just for those 40 people, put it on YouTube and then I left [for Boston]. The next time I looked at that video, it had thousands of views and hundreds of comments. I read the comments and people were asking if I could do another butt video or another ab video and these were not just the people at 24 Hour Fitness, they were from people all over the world. Now we have over 3.7 million subscribers on YouTube, which is craziness, and it all is stemming from the intention to want to teach.

AM: What drew you to Pilates and why is this such a good method to do in terms of toning your body?

CH: I really love Pilates because it is all about competing against yourself and who you were yesterday. You do not have to compete with anyone else. Pilates is so good for your body because if you are doing mat Pilates you do not need any equipment and you are using your body strength, which also means you have fewer excuses when you are traveling. You don’t have to go to the gym to do Pilates; you can do it literally in your hotel room or at home. My form of Pilates is called POP Pilates, which is Pilates with pop music, so it makes it really fun to do and it is like a dance on the mat.

AM: What are you currently working on and tell us more about Sheroic podcast?

CH: I am currently working on the next POPFLEX collection, which is my active wear line and we are hoping to launch some new lines in the fall, which will be fun! Also on June 21, we are launching the Sheroic podcast. I am super excited about it and I am hosting it with my good
friend and fellow female entrepreneur, Lisa Bilyeu. We are talking everything female empowerment, how to follow your dreams, how to have successful relationships and how to deal with failure. We also talk about body image, plastic surgery and pretty much anything and
everything else. We get real, we get raw and every episode will leave you with at least one nugget of knowledge that will enrich your life.

AM: What are 3 exercises that are good to tone abs, legs and your butt?

CH: A great one for abs is the eagle crunch. You would cross your knees over each other and then cross your ankles if you can and cross your elbows over each other and then your wrists, if you can. Essentially, you are trying to make the body nice and tight. While you are laying on your back, squeeze and crunch up touching your elbows to your knees and then you release. That action is really going to attack your core, your abs and it is pretty insane. You will want to
try about 15 or 20 of those and the slower, the better.

For legs, I really like squat lunges. This is from my PIIT28 workout (Pilates Intense Interval Training), in which you begin in a squat with your legs hip width apart and toes tracking forward. You squat down with your chest open and back flat. Your butt will be almost to the floor, at least parallel to the floor. You then jump up and land in a lunge. Then you go back
into your squat, jump up and land in your lunge on the other side. This is all cardio, lots of legs and added butt too.

If you want another butt exercise, one that I really do enjoy is the standing single leg lift. Imagine you are balancing on one foot, leg is straight, hands on the hips and the other leg extended behind you, nice and long with your toe pointed. Now, while balancing on that foot like a flamingo, bend your knee and extend it up. That is really going to tack that one glute. Then to get the other glute, you lift the other leg high in the air and bring it back to that parallel position. This entire sequence is so good for your legs and your butt.

AM: What are great power foods that we can eat in order to maintain our energy when we're running around or about to work out?

CH: If you are looking for energy foods, you are looking for something with a bit more carbs in it for that quick energy. For me, I enjoy a really good acai bowl. You get your fruit, maybe some granola and it is fun to eat. Acai is really so good for you so I like that. They also make beautiful pictures.

AM: What is your personal style when it comes what you wear when you work out vs what you wear for brunch vs going out for date night?

CH: For working out, I love looking really cute because it keeps me motivated. I also think that looking cute helps with better form. If you look in the mirror and feel good about your outfit, you will have better form. I like wearing my own line, POPFLEX Active, because I like testing
my clothes to make sure they are working. I want to make sure that the pants are not see-through when you squat or that your boobs stay in when you do jump squats. These are all very important things, so I love testing the clothes before anything comes out.

In terms of what I wear for brunch versus going out, sometimes I finish my workout and head straight to brunch. I’m cool with doing that because I feel like the workout wear is very versatile, but I also really love rompers. I can wear rompers all day long. Rompers for brunch, rompers for date night, rompers all the time.

AM: Being healthy focuses on eating right and working out, how important is sleep to this formula?

CH: The three pillars for health are eating healthy, being active daily and getting enough rest daily. I think many people skip on the sleep part because it is not often talked about with the same level of emphasis as working out and eating right. I think people need to try to get 7-8 hours of sleep a day. Obviously, everyone is different but that is the number that tends to work for me and when that happens you will not only learn better, but you will remember more and
feel happier, which studies have proven. A recent ZzzQuil survey found that nearly nine in ten Americans (87%) say they experience trouble falling asleep—I can definitely relate to this! When life keeps me up, like when I get back from a big trip, I get major jetlag and it is very difficult to fall asleep, which screws with my entire weekly routine. On those occasional nights when jet lag keeps me up, I will take ZzzQuil, a realistic solution that helps me fall asleep usually in as little as 20 minutes. Then I am able to wake up the next day feeling refreshed and
ready to go!

AM: Tell us about your partnership with ZzzQuil and why do you prioritize sleep?

CH: I’m very excited to be partnering with ZzzQuil to promote the importance of sleep and rest to my fans. Sleep is so important and people often try to take time out of their sleep so they can get more done. The truth is when you try to get more done, you are not as productive because you don’t feel as good or energized.

Sleep needs to be there and it needs to be done every day. Of course sometimes when you aren’t able to sleep because you’re going to go out later or something comes up, that’s fine every once in a while. However, over a long period, it can be detrimental to your wellbeing.

So many people ask me my secrets to maintaining a healthy lifestyle when life gets busy and honestly, one of the biggest factors for me is sleep. I prioritize sleep because it helps my body literally function. I had issues with not being able to lose weight because I was not sleeping enough. That was something that I didn’t realize until I discovered it, because I didn’t sleep enough. Sleep also helps with my memory, which is awesome because I have to memorize
POP Pilates choreography all the time and that is a lot of moves and sequences. Getting a good night’s sleep after practice is helpful to be able to drill the moves into my memory.

AM: Do you have a sleeping routine, such as writing in a journal, drinking a tea etc. to begin the process?

CH: My sleep routine consists of some stretching at night and if I have time I’ll put on one of my favorite Netflix shows and stretch for about an hour to really open up my body. That puts
me in a calm mood physically. Then I’ll head to bed and I will begin to read, which calms my mind and helps me drift off into sleep.

AM: Please share anything that you feel you'd like our audience to know!

CH: For anyone out there that feels like they can’t pick their butt off the floor and they feel unmotivated to work out, I would say you need to figure out what it is that makes you really excited and really happy when you are moving. Even if it’s something as simple as walking, that’s fine. It doesn’t have to be crazy or intimidating, like CrossFit or running a marathon, but everyone has something that will really work for them and get them excited. We are all different human beings, so all of our workouts and diets are going to be a different prescription for ourselves. I suggest you try everything and I know you are going to find that one thing that gets you excited to want to jump out of bed and just do it, and that will be the right workout for you. Working out should make you happy, it shouldn’t feel like a chore.

Read more from the June Issue and see Pop Into Good Health with Cassey Ho in mag.

DAVID CHANG | NIKE SB DUNK HIGH "MOMOFUKU"

If you've gone to any of celeb chef/restaurateur David Chang's group of eateries - you know there's always a line and something unexpected for diners! Whether it's savory dishes or their famous Compost Cookie (who hasn't made a Milk Bar run). This same sentiment that can be enjoyed at Momofuku locations has found its way into the release of the Nike SB Dunk High Momofuku shoes. This shoe is not only a limited release, but shoppers have to enter the world of Augmented Reality in order to snag these coveted sneakers. By going to the SNKRS app, you can unlock the shoes and be able to see whether there are quantities that you can get at the same time.

Visiting the app and pointing the camera on your phone to the image of the menu from the Fuku East Village or one of the Nike posters that are pasted outside of Momofuku locations in the US, a 3D model of the sneaker pops up allowing purchases of these shoes while supplies are available. The collaboration with David Chang is a homage to the world of Momofuku and launched at his restaurants on June 22nd.

This is not the first time that Nike has tried new ways to sell shoes through the SNKRS app via geo-fencing as this was done for Don C X Air Jordan 2 "Arctic Orange" and with specific time windows for Kevin Durant's "Still KD" colorway.

PHOTO COURTESY OF NIKE

If There Are Still Pairs Available - Here's How To Get Them
Make sure you have the most recent version of the SNKRS app for iOS.

Go into the Behind The Design post about the Nike SB Dunk High Pro "Momofuku" in the SNKRS feed.

Once inside the post, scroll down until you find the .gif of the hidden Dunk rotating above the background image.

Tap this .gif to open the camera via SNKRS.

Once the camera is open, find David Chang’s Fuku East Village menu online (hint, that’s it below). Or any of the special SNKRS posters inspired by the menu that are pasted up outside all Momofuku restaurants in the U.S. 

Hover over the menu or poster with the camera and then tap to unlock it. The shoe will instantly pop up on your screen.

If there are still pairs available, the invitation to purchase the Nike SB Dunk High Pro "Momofuku" will appear in your SNKRS Feed and Inbox.

PHOTO COURTESY OF NIKE

GRAPHIC HISTORY

All eyes are on the recent collaboration of 1800 Tequila X PUMA X Sam Rodriguez Sneaker that continues the heritage of the PUMA Clyde sneaker by the iconic sports brand. We chatted with artist, Sam Rodriguez about being approached for this project and how he blended his graffiti style along with Mayan and Aztec aesthetic to put his twist on this shoe.

ATHLEISURE MAG: Tell us about your background as we know you're a self-taught graphic artist.

SAMUEL RODRIGUEZ: My name is Samuel Rodriguez and I am an artist based out of San José, California. My work has shown in public spaces, museums, companies, galleries, the internet, and editorial media. For a number of years, I was self-taught through graffiti, until I later decided to expand my studies through the pursuit of a Bachelor in Fine Arts at California
College of the Arts. I have since blended what I absorbed in both experiences to create my style and figure out the next steps in my career

AM: How have Mayan and Aztec art influences been important to the designs that were incorporated into your sneaker?

SR: The Mayan and Aztec language are indigenous to Mexico so I thought it would be a good starting place. However, I also did not want to simply repeat what they did as it would have been out of context to this time period and project. Using this influence as a starting point, I thought about how they were communicating messages back then and asked myself how that could look through my perspective today. That’s why you see modern typography, graffiti,
and hip-hop style headwear weaving throughout the illustration. What I like about this project is that it pairs together indigenous, home-grown ingredients with contemporary ones.

AM: Were you a fan of the Clyde sneaker prior to you working with PUMA?

SR: Yes, very much so, this sneaker was everything to me during my formative years. I got my first pair at age 12, the same year when I started writing graffiti. A lot of people that I looked up to would sport these. I would see Lowriders, Breakdancers, Cholos, and other Graffiti guys wearing them. Although these sneakers first became popular because of NY hip-hop, here at home we mixed them with our local flavors. For example, I would sport them with creased
jeans, Ben Davis zip ups, Derby Jacket and a flipped up Cap. There were all sorts of West Coast variations, I remember some people wearing them with Cascade shirts, hairnets and all kinds of
local styles. It’s a shoe that reminds me of good times when I was introduced to the streets, but more importantly when I began my lifelong passion in art.

AM: How did the 1800 Tequila X PUMA X Sam Rodriguez collab/partnership come about?

SR: I was initially approached by Hypebeast. I was surprised and excited when they shared the details of the project. Designing a Puma Clyde was definitely an item on the bucket list.

AM: Sneakers are definitely important in our wardrobe, but what statement besides style do you feel that your work creates in terms of creating social/historical/cultural conversations?

SR: Style is something that a person grows into. It is your personal voice, but then you ask yourself, so what? From this comes the content of the work. I use my style and life experience
to speak on social/historical/cultural conversations. Art is more interesting when it is relevant
and responds to the current time period. Furthermore, it serves as a mark in history.

Read more from the May Issue and Graphic History in mag.

THE OTHER SIDE OF THE LENS | A CONVERSATION WITH ED CARAEFF

When you think of some of rock and roll's iconic imagery from festivals, album covers and concerts, you may have seen some of the work of photographer Ed Caraeff who was there for some of music's major moments! With the release of his work in Burning Desire: The Jimi Hendrix Experience and Iggy & The Stooges: One Night at the Whisky 1970, we took a moment to find out more about this photographer, how he got into the industry and where he is now.

ATHLEISURE MAG: Tell us about your background and how you became a photographer.

ED CARAEFF: I was fifteen years old, in high school and taking a photography course. My school was two miles from Los Angeles International Airport. During lunch hour, I went to the airport and took photos of a band called The Seeds returning from tour. A smartly dressed woman tapped me on the shoulder, handed me her business card and asked to see the
photographs when developed. That was the beginning of a career I never knew existed!

AM: We know that in addition to photography, you are noted for doing a number of album cover art for iconic artists. What albums that you created have been some of your favorites?

EC: After years of being hired to photograph artists for album cover art, I started to first Art Direct the entire album packaging. Soon after, I learned how to do all the Graphic Design work as well - size the photos with stats, spec the type, paste-ups, etc. Since I also did my own
darkroom work, developing b & w and color film, making prints, I was one-stop shopping.
Never had an agent, portfolio, business card or a listed phone number.

I did hundreds of covers, too many to mention. I like most all of them ... never hung any on my wall.

AM: Tell us about Iggy Stooges: One Night at the Whisky 1970 - how did you get to be involved in this and what made the Whisky such a key place?

EC: I was hired by their NYC record company. Whisky was THE place, World Famous.

AM: It seems like your career can be credited with being a great photographer as well as being at the right place at the right time! How did you get the iconic shot of Jimi Hendrix?

EC: Exactly, thanks for mentioning that. I'm a very good photographer, same today with my iPhone. It comes very naturally, fast, smooth, kinda like Jimi playing his guitar, or anyone doing
something effortlessly.

The burning guitar shot was taken while standing on a chair I had snagged in photographer's pit and then jammed it up against the elevated stage. I had just turned 17 and had an authorized photography pass issued by the Monterey Pop Festival.

AM: Why was the Monterey Festival such a pivotal moment in music history?

EC: With the 50 Year Anniversary next month there's many expert opinions, I do believe. For me, it was the furthest I'd ever been from home without my parents. The Summer of Love in Southern California. Lots of great images to capture and I had use of my family's friends high end German camera.

AM: Of the people who you have had the opportunity to shoot, which ones crossed over from a professional relationship to one of friendship?

EC: Members of Three Dog Night, Cheech & Chong, Sergio Mendes, Elton John.

AM: What can you tell us about Jimi Hendrix as we love that your imagery showcases him on stage as well as just hanging out - what is it about this artist that drew so many people to him?

EC: Jimi had the style, the swag, the coolness, and backed it up with the genius talent. One of a kind.

AM: Besides shooting one of Jimi's most iconic moments, do you have a story/experience that you shared with him that you can share with us?

EC: Picking him up at his two story motel on the Sunset Strip, smoking a joint and driving to John and Michelle Phillip's Bel Air mansion to party was a memorable evening.

AM: Beyond working with some of rock's biggest artists, you also worked with artists such as Marvin Gaye - what was that like?

EC: Marvin was one of a very few I photographed that I was in awe of meeting. I was a big fan. He was not in a good mood, going thru a divorce, obligated to release an album by his father in law's (Berry Gordy) record company. Motown hired me to "replicate a place in Jamaica that
Marvin had just returned from." The photographs were never published. The cover used on "Here, My Dear," is a funky b & w illustration.

AM: Do you still have artists that you have yet to work with, but they are on your bucket list?

EC: No. I left working with artists to working with food while a single parent with two sons living in NYC in 1985.

I was a photographer, art director, graphic designer for 14 years and then answered an ad in The Sunday New York Times to become a chef. I got the job on east 48th near 2nd Ave and started a career as hands on chef, restauranteur for 27 years.

When I thought to do my bucket list, only one thing popped up and it was instantaneous. I started working so young, still in school, and worked continually. I missed out on spending time after graduating and wandering and sleeping in my vehicle. Low stress, Zen, lifestyle.

AM: How do you view the photography industry now in terms of the use of digital and even being able to break into the industry to work with notable artists?

EC: I love digital, apps, social media. I like not having to worry if I have enough or the right kinda film! You just remember to have battery life.

For me, great way to express myself. In terms of breaking into that industry - I shudder to think.

AM: We hear that you're on a bucket list journey. What made you want to do that?
 

EC: I had a health wake-up call in 2012. Also, I attended funerals for two long time friends in the same week. Learned I would become a grandfather, twice, by both my children within a five month period. My Cardiologist said of my bucket list trip, "If not now, when?"

Then it took me a year and half to make sure I really wanted to do it. Followed by another year and half to find loving homes for my pets, got rid of ALL my possessions, sell my home and even sell my photography archive. Because that too is "work," though I love my work.

June 15 will be two years I've lived 24/7 in a vintage VW Westfalia Van named "Moonbeam."

AM: Can we expect additional books of your photography to be released, and if so, what artists will it be?

EC: Yes. Next month, my Jimi Hendrix photographs, "Burning Desire" will be available. I'm grateful for the books I have and the future is uncertain.

Stay in touch with Ed Caraeff's bucket list trip on Instagram via @thebucketlisttrip

All photos are courtesy of Ed Caraeff

HOLA MEZQUILA

Sammy Hagar has a wide range of achievements from being a member of Van Halen (as well as a number of other bands), a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, an advisor on The Voice and
having one of the most successful tequilas - Cabo Wabo.

It was a dinner out in Cabo San Lucas with his fellow The Voice co-star and friend, Maroon 5's Adam Levine and Jack Daniels (no relation to the whiskey brand, but he is the Co-Founder of Wilson Daniels a wine and spirits marketing company that at one time distributed Cabo Wabo prior to its sale to Gruppo Campari). Upon enjoying various tequilas, the restaurant owner suggested they try a mezcal (the younger Mexican cousin to tequila). The group found it to be too smoky; however, when they paired it with a tequila, a lightbulb moment took place which resulted in over 2 years of development and this produced the world's first Mezquila! Santo
Mezquila is a premium blend of two distillates 100% Blue Agave (tequila) and Espadin Agave (which produces Mezcal) - an entirely new spirit category was born.

"When Adam and I started tasting the different blends, I knew we had something special that people would love. It was only right to get the team back together and share Santo with the world," states Hagar. This "spirit band" that was united included those that were involved with the creation of Cabo Wabo.

As we noted earlier this year, Mezcal has definitely been an upcoming trend within the wellness industry in 2017. Levine describes Santo as a spirit, "that has a smooth, full agave, rich tequila flavor with a touch of smoky-sweetness that you can only find with Mezcal." This balance makes it perfect for sipping.

Read more from the May Issue and see Hola Mezquila in mag

THE BAKER MAN | DUFF GOLDMAN

Duff Goldman of Charm City Cakes is no stranger to Athleisure Mag as we chatted with him in this year's Anniversary issue about coming back for another race with Chefs Cycle (a fundraising endurance event May 16th - May 18th featuring award-winning chefs and members of the culinary community fighting hunger outside the kitchen where proceeds go to No Kid Hungry) and how he was preparing for this activity. We took some time to chat with Celebrity Chef and Food Network personality Duff about his role as a judge for a number of the network's shows, including Spring Baking Championship, Kids Baking Championship (to name a few), his partnership with Bounty, National Chocolate Chip Cookie Day and his inner workings as he continues to embrace the magic of baking.  

ATHLEISURE MAG: We loved talking with you earlier this year about your preparation to participate in this year's  Chefs Cycle - are you excited?

DUFF GOLDMAN: Yes it starts on May 16th! I'm so excited it's going to be great.

AM: We can only imagine! Well, we've been fans of you since your first show with Food Network, Ace of Cakes. In our opinion, you're the first baker that we knew that represented an edgy out of the box style with all of the sweet treats that you created.

DG: Oh thanks!

AM: Oh yeah, watching you while we grew up, we were struck with how this guy - not to say that you're not delicate, but there is a certain idea you have (at least back at that time) of what a pastry chef would look like.

DG: Absolutely!

AM: To see a cool tattooed guy busting out with these really cool friends - it was cool. Even if you weren't a baker yourself, it was cool to see that barrier being broken and changing the idea of what it means to work in a given profession. So how did you bring that into all of these other Food Network shows that you have been a part of especially with incorporating kids and making it look cool and fun while taking your ideas from concept to reality?

DG: Well you know, I think that most of cooking is really fun and interesting. It's not that hard to make it seem that way. When the kids are excited about it, it's not hard for those who are watching to see that they are and to want to know more about it. They watch us do what we do and then they're fascinated. It's like when you pick up a new album from somebody - if someone else has really got down on that record and tells you - you really have to listen to this record, this beat or chord progression, then you really get into it because someone you know has brought you something that they think is cool. 

I think cooking is the same way, especially on TV - you've got to be excited about it. I am - to this day when I put something in the oven, and it starts to rise, to this day, it's still magical for me! I still get really excited. When it's working you're like, 'check it out' it's bubbling, moving, growing and cracking! It's doing what it's doing and it's still neat!

AM: Which is cool and we can totally tell that about you because you look like you're loving life! You can tell that you really love the process, the creation of it and the looks on your face - it's priceless. 

DG: Yeah man! It never gets old!
 

AM: We know that the 3rd season of Spring Baking Championship ends this month with the adults. You also judge a number of children's baking shows on the network. How is it working with these young chefs and bakers?

DG: Um a lot messier! Definitely a lot messier - you always want a lot of paper towel nearby because kids are messy. Other than that, the judging is really the same. I'm honest and fair and when they mess up, I point it out. I think that with kids, I spend a little more time on when there is a mistake on how to correct it. When adults make mistakes it's usually a bone head move and they know better. With kids, they haven't made something enough times. They're 10 years old - how much patachou have they made? So it's like hey you put too many eggs in there - don't put so much in so that you don't have a puddle.

AM: Haha exactly! So how important do you think your role is as a role model to them in terms of giving them that encouragement and feedback?

DG: I think it's really important - the kids see me as this big goofy guy, but then they also see me as this expert as it's what I do and what I'm good at. It's really important that I never want to discourage them and I want any challenge that the kids are having in the kitchen as an opportunity for them to learn. So they don't see a mistake as a mistake, they see it as an opportunity to learn something. That's what makes baking so fascinating. 

I'm still learning at the same pace as I was learning back then. Every day, I learn something and am doing something new. I refine my technique, I try something different and it's important as I have been baking for over 20 years! You have to stay awake and if you go on autopilot, you're putting a stake in your career. You have to be present in the moment and mindful when you're baking. You have to just be fascinated by it as that's what it is.

AM: One of the things we really love is when you take your first bite. Your face lights up, your eyes take it in and we can see there are a lot of wheels turning. What is going on in your head at that moment?

DG: It's funny because I love to eat and I love food. I love taking bites and I love it! The thought process going on in my head is that I want to viscerally enjoy this bite! Then I have to remember that I am judging something so I have to dissect it - but I don't want to dissect it, I just want to eat it - leave me alone haha! There's always a conflict going on in my head like - pay attention - but then it's so good - but pay attention! I just want to chew. But it's usually that when you see that look because I'm confused between the two.

AM: For sure when you have that first bite, we see all the synapses firing and you have the best responses coming off of the taste! It also seems tough because you only have a few seconds to take it in and grasp what it going on. Our team laughs everytime we see it!

DG: I know I take these big stupid bites! It's funny because my girlfriend always yells at me saying I need to take smaller bites because I'm going to choke to death. I'm like, I've been taking these big bites for 4 years now, I'm going to be fine. 

The other thing that's funny is that I take these bites - because I'm watching the shows and live tweeting them and when I'm not on camera and I'm just out and when it's a nice restaurant where there is something new or they are trying a new technique - I do the exact same face. I look up at the ceiling and people have said - that's the same face from the Baking Championship! I'm like, "it's not an act!"

AM: Tell us about your partnership with Bounty and how we can keep having fun while we're cleaning on the go or different tips that you have come up with.

DG: Bounty and I partnered up to celebrate National Chocolate Chip Day (May 15th) and I came up with a recipe that would be really fun for kids to make - a Rainbow Chocolate Chip Cookie. I think it's important to get kids cooking and baking to see the work and ingredients that go into it to get them to start thinking critically at an early age about what they are eating. When you bake with kids, they are really messy but you want to make sure that they are still having fun. You want to make sure that you keep their attention. If you're stopping to clean every 5 mins - it's taking away from the experience. It's important to have a really good paper towel. 

You can clean as you go, because when it gets too messy, you can't do anything. You have to keep it clean, but you have to keep it moving. Bounty Paper Towels really are great, because they don't shred, tear or turn into liquid when they get wet. They're really useful beyond just cleaning up! If you're whisking something in a bowl and don't have another hand free, you can take a sheet of Bounty under the bowl and whisk it and the bowl won't move around. The same is true for the cutting board - it won't slide.

AM: Wow that's really cool!

DG: Yeah it's good! Also when you have a hot pan like you're sauteeing a piece of chicken and you have taken the chicken out of a non-stick pan, what you can do is take a sheet of Bounty, ball it up, take the tongs and you rub it on the inside of the hot pan and it picks up all that grease and cleans the pan really well so that you're not scrubbing with something abbrasive. You can't do that with a cheap paper towel - it's impossible. The other brands start to char and catch fire! It's REALLY good for greasing cake pans. You spray the pans, but you don't want the puddles so you take a sheet of Bounty and run it inside your cake pan or tins and it makes it nice and even so it doesn't burn in the oven.

AM: Okay those are some serious tips and I wouldn't have known some of those.

DG: Yeah it's really cool!

AM: We know you have your own line of cake mixes, baking tools and more - what are your favorites?

DG: Oh man that's a good question. My favorite, I'd say the tie dye or the camouflage cake mix.

AM: Wait - you have camo?

DG: Yeah we have camouflage. They're so neat. Again, speaking to that magic - when you do these things with a kid - you're dropping the different color batters into a pan, that's just fun. You're having a good time. But then when it comes out and you cut it and you see that it really looks like camouflage, kid's minds EXPLODE! They can't believe it and are like, "WHAT, how did this happen?"

AM: That sounds pretty cool! Speaking of National Chocolate Chip Day, we saw the Rainbow Chip Cookies and it reminds us of the whole "unicorning" trend that is popping up throughout various lifestyle verticals - why are these cookies so perfect to enjoy on this holiday?

DG: I wanted a recipe that was going to be good with kids. Kids love touching things and it's a very tactile recipe. There are colors and then you're rolling them out like snakes and you twist that big snake out and then you have that big magical moment that when you cut it, you see all the colors that have mushed together and then what's really fun, you get to place each chocolate chip on each piece yourself. It's fun because kids can make smiley faces or do their initials with the chocolate chip cookies - really decorative things. 

It's a really fun recipe that is pretty involved and is not the easiest recipe in the world. I don't dumb it down. I don't dumb it down when I judge the kids and I don't dumb down the recipes or kids. I think about what kids are going to think is fun and sometimes it's hard, but they're still going to think it's fun!

AM: That's really cool. Last question! So June 2nd is National Donut Day. Do you have a favorite donut that you like to make?

DG: Mmmmm - I have a favorite one that I like to eat!

AM: Ok make or eat!

DG: Have you ever had the blueberry cake donuts from 7-Eleven?

AM: No we haven't haha!

DG: It might be my favorite donut in the world!

AM: We will have to try that!

DG: Yeah they are amazing HAHA - I love those things!!!

Make sure you watch Duff and the rest of the judging team for the season finale of Spring Baking Championship on Food Network at the end of this month. Also, follow him on Twitter and IG to see more about upcoming shows!

Read more from the May Issue and see The Baker Man with Duff Goldman in mag

SIP THE WORLD WITH JACK MAXWELL

We're fans of shows that transport us to new locations - whether we actually visit or not. A new twist on the classic travel show includes the stories and cultures that Travel Channel's host, Jack Maxwell encounters on Booze Traveler.  On his way to Tahiti, Jack told us about the show, where he'd like to film and what he's learned doing the show.

ATHLEISURE MAG: Tell us about your background - how did you become the Booze Traveler and had you ever bartended before or done anything in the alcohol industry?

JACK MAXWELL: Growing up shining shoes in the bar rooms of South Boston, I fell in love with the magical combination of booze, travel, adventure and storytelling. My neighborhood was filled with divey pubs and all sorts of characters who loved a drink and a story.

AM: Although the show follows you drinking through various countries, it's not really about drinking per se, but more of an Anthony Bourdain style (which we're fans of too) of the culture behind why one drinks or the history behind certain beverages. Why do you think that this resonates with viewers and what have you learned after doing this for 3 seasons?

JM: Maybe “Booze Traveler” resonates because we meet such interesting people, with really great stories. Hopefully my gratitude for that, along with my natural curiosity and joy for life, comes across.
 
AM: How important is interacting with the culture and sharing it with viewers of The Travel Channel?

JM: It's what the show is all about. The drink just gets us into the scene. It's all about the people and the culture.
 
AM: We loved when you drank vodka at Lake Baikal in Siberia and also enjoyed the episode of the Smoothie in Belize - what was your favorite country to enjoy a drink and what was it?

JM: I really loved having an authentic Mojito in Cuba. Drinking great Port while sailing the river through the Douro Valley in Portugal was another favorite. Having cocktails with the Conch Republic in Key West while fighting the Coast Guard, and zip lining through downtown Las Vegas with a Dean Martin impersonator were both fun, unforgettable experiences.
 
AM: Where would you like to film next and what beverage story would you like to learn about there?

JM: Having filmed Booze Traveler in roughly 50 countries - covering six continents - has been wonderful, a real eye-opener. I would love to find a native tribe somewhere yet to be discovered and have a drink with them. That would be fantastic.

AM: The show is an hour, but we see you enjoying a number of beverages and finding a particular drink, what is it like when you are taping for one of these shows?

JM: I probably don't put away as much booze as it seems. A lot of what you see on the show happens off camera, too. The camaraderie is real. The travel can be a grind, but the crew is great and we keep each other loose.
 
AM: With all of the traveling and beverages, do you detox or cleanse and what workouts do you do?

JM: I like to tell people I only drink at work, which is mostly true. Hard to pass up a nice bottle of wine with dinner though or a celebratory cocktail when I reunite with friends. Don't work out as much as I'd like. We are constantly on the road shooting long days, which I'm exhausted by the end of. I should do a better job of getting to the gym.

AM: What is your personal style in terms of what you wear to go out with friends or to run errands?

JM: Relaxed. Casual. Comfortable.

AM: You take a lot of flights, what is on your playlist and how do you make your travels more comfortable for long flights or for various legs on a trip?

JM: I have a lot of nice relaxing music on my iPod. When I want to get in the mood I play some Stones or Frank Sinatra, as different as those two are. Make sure I have a sleep mask and wax (not foam) earplugs on the plane. The wax kills a lot of the ambient noise; the mask helps you sleep. A few hours here and there make a difference.
 
AM: How do you manage jet lag - any tips that you can share?

JM: I try to drink as much water as I can. Keeps me hydrated and makes me get up and go to the bathroom. Great for circulation. DVT can be an issue on long flights, although I've never had a problem with it.
 
AM: When you're in between seasons, what would we find you doing?

JM: Visiting family. Hanging with friends. Resting. Probably won't see me on an airplane.
 

AM: Can you tell us if there is a season 4 and what locales are on your bucket list?

JM: We are filming season four of Booze Traveler right now. Very excited about the Tahiti episode. So tropically beautiful and naturally exotic. Also, Italy, Costa Rica, Norway and Romania.

AM: What tips do you have for traveling like a pro this summer from packing, essentials for your carry on and when you get to your final destination?

JM: Travel light. You probably don't need as many clothes as you think. Bring comfortable shoes. Don't make too many plans. The trip will be a blur and you'll have covered some distance, but won't remember as much as you should. Go off the beaten path. Duck into a café and talk to strangers. You might be surprised.

AM: Feel free to tell us where we will see you next, whether it's an upcoming project or if you have philanthropies/charities that you are involved in!

JM: Very fortunate to be entrusted with a second show for Travel Channel called “Booze Traveler: Best Bars.” It's a pub crawl through all the best bars in the US. You will find me handing out toys at the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Dept. Holiday Toy Drive in Phoenix every Christmas. My lifelong friend, Roy Catalo, is the chairman. One of the great joys in life is seeing the face of an underprivileged kid light up like a Lite-Brite when they pick out a toy they never thought they'd get. 
 

Read more from the May Issue and see Sip The World with Jack Maxwell in mag.

MAI TIME WITH JEANNIE MAI

Our issues are always filled with our faves and range in various areas that we are intrigued and enlightened by. We've been fans of Jeannie Mai ever since she appeared on the Style Network's "How Do I Look"? Her approach to making all women feel beautiful and comfortable in their own skin is such a refreshing one in an industry that is not known for embracing these values.

We had the chance to hangout with Jeannie and shoot her cover at NYC's 575 Park Avenue while finding out more about her style career, being a fashion correspondent as well as being one of the co-hosts of FOX's The Real. 

ATHLEISURE MAG: Tell us about your background as we remember you first from your days on Style Network 'How Do I Look' and your use of 'wearapy'. Share with our readers what wearapy is.

JEANNIE MAI: My mom taught me that my style is my business card. After I graduated high school I was teaching women in my hometown of San Jose on how to dress for their body type and helping celebrities perfect their makeup for the stage. I knew my message to brand your beauty needed to be taught to millions, so I moved to LA to promote that message. I was honored to take on being the host of "How Do I Look" and began teaching my philosophy about "wearapy" - the idea that you can change your opportunities from the outside in. 

AM: We know that you started as a MUA. Share your path from transitioning from a Celebrity MUA, to a Stylist to an on air personality.

JM: Makeup is the most inexpensive tool you can use to transform your image. Again, my mom was a key player in teaching me all the power that comes in owning what's most unique about me. I marketed myself well throughout the Bay Area as a makeup artist and stylist and was blessed to be at the right place, at the right time...while I stayed prepared for my moment. I went from painting faces of stars like Christina Aguilera, Cyndi Lauper, and Alicia Keys to styling them whenever they needed because at the time there were no assigned stylists from record labels. While I enjoyed helping celebs, empowering everyday women was my passion. So I moved to LA to begin sharing my message on television.
 
AM: You have a number of shows you're a part of! Tell us about The Real - what was the process like to getting a spot as one of the co-hosts and what is it about this talk show format that is so exciting for you?
 
JM: The Real is the sickest celebration of authenticity and girl power in a daily talk show. I am thrilled to work beside Tamera Mowry Housley, Loni Love, and Adrienne Houghton - we are a dream team. Don't get me wrong, it's hard work and we don't rest until we put our hearts out there at our Girl Chat table every single day. But what's most exciting is listening to our fans and hearing the incredible stories of lives being changed and affected through our stories of truth and progress to be our best.

AM: The fashion industry is glamorous, but it's also one that many find is harsh in terms of over photoshopping, representing diversity, weight etc - we have always been struck by how you represent and carry the message of women being comfortable in the bodies that they are in - do you feel that you are a role model for this and what led you to representing this acceptance/platform?

JM: I am the best role model for me. At 38 years young I embrace all it took for me to really enjoy the body I'm in and the woman I live to be. I wouldn’t be keeping it real if I didn't say I haven't touched a photoshopping app or struggled with my image, but being a woman means owning the right to do what makes you fabulous as long as it helps you serve your mission in life. 

AM: We love #MaiTips - share 3 of your tips with us on achieving great effortless summer style and what are 3 tips that we should consider when we go to summer weddings?  
 
JM: I have 3 tips that can work for both!

1. Invest in head wraps, scarves, and hair accessories. It’s the most effective piece to pull an outfit together, frames your face, and is always a classic stylish touch.
 
2. Before leaving the house work on the best poses and stride with your outfit and shoes. After all, it’s all about making an entrance and a lasting impression in pics!
 
3. Use deodorant not just under your arms, but behind your knees, inside your elbows, and down your cleavage as well. Nothing worse than feeling sweat after sitting in the sun, especially at a wedding, but a little help in those areas help you feeling dry and fresh day to night.
 

AM: You're always on the go, what are your must haves to travel with in terms of makeup, snacks and style finds?
 
JM:- Makeup: Minnavi skin care masks are a must for hydration and luminescence, they have a time release of nutrients that keep my skin in check through any type of weather. I use them religiously before any red carpet or date night with the hubs!
 
- Snacks: Chia seeds are necessary for energy and digestive health & Dang coconut chips are delish as a healthy fat and sweet!   
 
- Style Finds: I am addicted to eyewear. I purchase glasses from every city I visit, and love how every style frame can add instant sophistication to my looks.
 
AM: With the summer upon us, how can we get a great glow for our skin to have that sun goddess kissed look?

JM: See my Minnavi skin care tip above. No really, these masks save lives. Prep it with Tulura skin oil (both the serum and the oil set) and I swear you will skip foundation. 

AM: Do you have any travel plans this summer?

JM: I'm thrilled to be executive producing and shooting my series of "How Do I Look Asia" in Singapore that will be airing in 33 countries, and taking mom to Sri Lanka and Korea after. The girls and I from "The Real" will be going on vacay this summer, and my besties Jerrod Blandino and Jeremy Johnson from Too Faced Cosmetics and I will be headed to Italy immediately following that trip. 

Did I mention I’m obsessed with travel?
 

AM: As a busy woman, how do you achieve a balance between work, life in general and assessing your own needs for personal time to recharge?

JM: First and foremost I start my day with a prayer of expectation of what's to come, and I end my day with gratitude for the unexpected. I feel that balances me for anything to come that day. Second, I prioritize spending time with what’s most important to me, like my husband, my family, the outdoors, great friends, and a really good Old Fashioned at the end of it all!

AM: What projects are you working on at the moment that you can share with us and where will we see you next? 

JM: I have an exciting project I'm working on with my awesome Mama Mai, I'm writing a book, starting a YouTube series, and we have a whole new side to "The Real" coming out for you next season!

AM: If there are additional items that you would like to share with us, please feel free to share!

JM: I appreciate the heck out of Athleisure Mag for taking this time and can't wait to hear more from your readers. Please do connect with me on my socials so we can keep in touch! Mad love.
 

AM: We loved creating this shoot for so many reasons and another character that plays throughout the luxury apartment's unit 1507 at 575 Park Ave, which had great touches that brought an additional layer of character to our cover shoot! We interviewed Louise Phillips Forbes, Licensed Senior Associate Real Estate Broker at Halstead Property in Manhattan.

LOUISE PHILLIPS FORBES: It’s simply stunning! I absolutely love the renovation that was done here. There is an abundance of designer details and high-end finishes that discerning buyers really appreciate.  Plus it has open city views, including Park Avenue, and sun-drenched rooms throughout so it’s a delight to be in day or night.  It also has a well-proportioned floor plan with separate bedroom wings providing ultimate privacy.  Entertaining here is a pleasure with a loft-like great room that beautifully combines living and dining. The living room boasts a decorative fireplace and thoughtfully designed custom built-in bookshelves, while the dining area is complemented by a built-in banquette flanked by crafted custom display cases. The bold designer choices in the kitchen are very chic, featuring a stunning mosaic tile floor, dark custom cabinetry, black granite counter tops, and high-end appliances. It looks like something right out of the pages of Architectural Digest.

AM: Tell us about who represents this property.

LPF: I am very honored to be the broker representing this exclusive listing.  I have been working in residential real estate for more than 28 years and currently hang my hat at Halstead Property’s Park Avenue office, where I’m proud to lead the firm’s #1 team.  My portfolio of clients includes buyers, sellers, and luxury developers all over NYC and my career sales are in excess of $3 billion.  I consider myself more of an educator than a sales person and it’s a privilege to be a part of this process with people, after all, your home is the base upon which the rest of your life is built.

AM: The interiors of this property really made us feel at home, who were the interior decorators of this space?

LPF: I agree, it is a sophisticated aesthetic but still very warm and inviting, a home you feel comfortable in.  That is credit to the current owners, an elegant husband and wife team who love to entertain and appreciate family time. They had a vision for the renovation and made it a reality.  She is a graduate of Parsons School of Design so it’s her impeccable taste reflected in the interior design choices throughout, but he also has a discerning eye and would consider himself a collaborator in the final result.  I’ve had the pleasure of working with them on several transactions in the city and I’ve thought each of their apartments was designed to perfection, but this one is very special.

AM: What amenities are offered in this building for residents?

LFP: Built in 1927, The Beekman is an elegant residence designed by George F. Pelham with an Italian Renaissance style that embodies a global lifestyle. Pied-a-terres are permitted and the full-service, white-glove amenities include: 24-hour doorman, concierge, valet, maid service (five days a week and monthly thorough cleaning), fitness room, central laundry room, private storage, engineering staff, and an onsite building manager who is terrific. Situated on Park Avenue at 63rd Street, the building is also home to the alluring French restaurant, Vaucluse, Chef Michael White's masterpiece serving impeccable food with an interior fashioned by Meyer Davis, that beautifully integrates contemporary design elements with the natural grace emblematic of Provence.

AM: Tell us about the neighborhood that is directly around the building.

LFP: The coveted location is convenient to Central Park, fine dining and charming cafes, luxury boutique shopping, art galleries, museums, and gourmet grocers. Plus Equinox is just one block away and there is public transportation nearby if needed.

AM: For those that are interested in purchasing this unit, how can they find out more information? 

LFP: It would be very easy to call this lovely apartment home given that it’s move-in ready.  Simply bring your toothbrush ;)

To schedule an appointment, people can contact me directly and I will be happy to show them the apartment and discuss the purchasing details.  I can be reached via email at lphillips@halstead.com or at 212-381-3329. 

AM: Where can readers find out about additional properties that you represent?

LFP: Visit my website and click on the tab for “My Listings.” You can view pictures and videos along with detailed descriptions of each property I’m working with.

Read more from the May Issue and Mai Time with Jeannie Mai as well as more info on the unit we shot in via our chat with Louise Philips Forbes of Halstead in mag.

ATHLEISURE MAG | MAY ISSUE

Our May Issue of Athleisure Mag is live! Before Memorial Day Weekend and Summer Fridays kick off, we're excited to share our celebrity cover, Jeannie Mai of FOX's The Real! This issue also includes a Travel Editorial with Club Med, an interview with Jack Maxwell of Travel Channel's Booze Traveler, an interview with iconic photographer Ed Caraeff who shot Jimi Hendrix, Iggy Pop and more, we chatted with Aloha about smoothies and their nutritional impact, talked with artist Sam Rodriguez on his new collaboration with 1800 Tequila and PUMA, and have a fun chat with Food Network personality and celeb baker - Duff Goldman. As always, we have a number of our classic features from Athleisure List, #TribeGoals and more. In addition, we have 2 guides for Father's Day as well as Graduation Guides. 

See more from the May Issue here!

POWER LAYER WITH MEGAN FOX

When Megan Fox hit the big screen, we were struck with her beauty. Without question, she has lit up a number of blockbuster franchises, including Transfomers as well as Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. This mother of 3 to 90210’s Brian Austen Green is now the Global Brand Ambassador, designer as well as the Co-Founder of Frederick’s of Hollywood! With a Spring 2017 collection that is out now, she is also currently designing the first Frederick’s of Hollywood X Megan Fox premier capsule collection for holiday - we’re definitely going to have to put this into our rotation of looks. It almost seems like this new addition to her portfolio is completely expected as she has been obsessed with Marilyn Monroe (she even has a tattoo of her), who used to work with the brand as well. 

We chatted wit Megan to find out how this mom does it all as the face and lacy mogul to the brand as well as how she was able to rock out the sexy looks in just a few months of giving birth!

ATHLEISURE MAG: Prior to joining Frederick’s of Hollywood, had you ever felt connected to this brand? 

MEGAN FOX: I was raised in a very conservative religious family, which didn’t allow me to express myself, and I always fought against that. I finally moved to L.A., at 17 for pilot season. I remember going to the Frederick’s store on Hollywood Boulevard and being excited! They had stuff in there that I would have NEVER had access to where I lived with my family. I mean, that’s what you do when you have a really strict family, you rebel and you do whatever makes their skin crawl. I wanted the sexiest stuff I could find! It was a very empowering moment for me, to use my money that I earned and buy things that no one else might see me wear — but I was going to wear them and feel powerful.

AM: So how did this partnership between you and Frederick’s of Hollywood come about?

MF: I had a meeting with Authentic Brands Group, who acquired Frederick's, and they were going to be relaunching the brand, and part of that meeting was about not just wanting to pay me to be the face of a company, but to give me part ownership, which would come with some creative control and the ability to design my own collection. Most people don’t get that kind of an opportunity. I didn’t see myself as a lingerie designer, but I thought it would be a fun challenge.

AM: Speaking of design challenges, how are you tackling creating the line for those that wear it?

MF: In designing something, it needs to be something that looks good on every shape and size. You want someone who is a 32A to be able to wear the same thing who is a 36G. Everyone wants to be able to wear something that makes them feel sexy and empowered!

AM: What do you forsee in your partnership with Frederick’s of Hollywood?

MF: You can say that I’ve lived in lingerie for most of my career. I understand how you can wear it for intimate moments as well as on the world’s stage! I’m always supportive of empowering women, especially when you’re talking about lingerie as it has a history of existing solely to excite or engage a man, and the woman is lost in that process. We need to change, or reverse that--not Frederick's alone, but society in general. We also need to make lingerie something that you can wear; something that’s daywear or nightwear to wear with clothes. I don’t want some thing that I can only wear on special occasions. Those things are fun, but I do want access to stuff that I can wear and make fashionable.

AM: So after having your third baby, Journey, you did the photoshoot for the Spring 2017 campaign that was shot by celeb photographer, Ellen Von Unwerth in the Hollywood Hills, how did you get camera ready?

MF: I have been a client of Harley Pasternak’s for years! I worked out in a healthy way during my pregnancy. I know how active I can be so that I don’t overdue it and then modified as needed. Because of that, I was able to ease back into working out pretty quickly. I did the same exercises pre-baby that are a part of Harley’s Five Factor workouts (There are 5 phases: a minimum five minute cardio warm-up, a lower body sculpting exercise, an upper body toning exercise, then an abdominal sculpting exercise, and finally, a five minute cool down. We tried to have her do minimal impact. Post-baby there shouldn’t be a lot of jumping up and down). When I couldn’t leave the baby to come to the gym, I did his video game (Harley Pasternak’s Hollywood Workout). I eat really well and love using the blender. He has a number of smoothie recipes and my favorite is the red smoothie, which is whatever berries are in season, Chai tea, a scoop of protein powder and little bit of almond milk. 

AM: How was it shooting the campaign post baby? 

MF: It’s an interesting challenge, because it doesn't matter how cleanly you eat or how much you work out or how well you take care of yourself — you’ve still just had a human being pass through your body and things are not going to be exactly the way they were before. I was a little worried, but then I put them on and I had this moment where it made me appreciate my body. I hadn’t been wearing lingerie before that, and I looked in the mirror, and I was like, the fact that I look this way after having a baby is a miracle, and I was thankful, and it gave me a little boost of confidence.

As a woman, you wouldn’t anticipate it having that effect but I think every woman should put it on at home before they’re ready and you may be surprised to see your body in ways they weren’t anticipating.

AM: So we know that you rock lingerie like none other, when you’re not wearing that, what is your style? 

MF: Every time I have a baby, I feel more comfortable in my body. After gaining and losing the weight, I feel accomplished about getting into better shape so I go through a phase of wearing super sexy stuff! But the practical part of it is that there is no time to plan your outfits, what happens is you end up in a lot of activewear!
 

Megan mentioned that she works out with celebrity fitness trainer, Harley Pasternak and does his Five Factor Workout. If you're looking to stun like Megan (who has been named as Most Beautiful Woman by Maxim), we suggest including this into your routine as this is a sample of his noted workout!

WARMUP: Five minutes on the bike or treadmill

LOWER BODY: Skater Lunge

Cross your right leg behind your left leg as you bend your left knee into a half-squat position. Extend your left arm out to the side and swing your right arm across your hips. Hop a few feet directly to the right, switching the position of your legs and arms. Repeat on opposite side.

UPPER BODY: Supine Triceps Extension

Lie face up on a bench with your arms raised straight above you, a weight in each hand; slowly lower them to the sides of your forehead and repeat.

ABDOMINAL SCULPTING: Superman

Lay on your stomach with your legs and arms fully extended. Slowly, contract your lower back and raise your legs and arms off the ground. Then lower them back down.

COOL-DOWN: Five minutes on stationary bike

Do 20 repetitions of each upper body, lower body, and abs and cycle through those three exercises non-stop, repeating that circuit four times. NOTE: Each day of the week she would come in and do different body parts at least three days a week.
 

Read more from the April Issue and see Power Layer with Megan Fox in mag.