BAD MONKEY | NATALIE MARTINEZ

We're always looking at what will be our next movie or show to watch whether we're taking a break between one project or another or are taking significant time off for a proper binge! Bad Monkey premiered on Aug 14th and is streaming on Apple TV+ with its season finale dropping on Oct 9th. This series is an adaptation of the Carl Hiassen's New York Times bestselling novel of the same name.

We follow former Miami Police Department office Andrew Yang (Vince Vaughn) as he becomes a health inspector in the Keys. When he stumbles upon a case due to a human arm being fished out by a tourist, he believes that if he can solve the murder, he will be able to go back to MPD!

He works alongside an interesting cast of characters which includes the coroner, Dr Rosa Campesino which is played by Natalie Martinez (Under the Dome, Kingdom, Ordinary Joe). We sat down with her to find out about the show and why she wanted to be involved in this comedy drama series!

ATHLEISURE MAG: What do you love about storytelling?

NATALIE MARTINEZ: I mean, everything! Storytelling goes on before our time I feel! It’s how traditions are passed through. It’s a great form of entertainment and it starts from the beginning. I have a 1 and a half month year old and he doesn’t even know how to speak, but he loves reading books and it really shows you that it is kind of in us and it’s just in our nature to love storytelling! Especially when you have an ensemble cast such as this with an amazing writing and creator with a book to adapt from, it just makes for a really good story!

AM: We love that!

What drew you to Bad Monkey and how did you prepare to play your character, Dr. Rosa?

NM: I got a call from Bill Lawrence (Ted Lasso, Shrinking, Scrubs) actually who asked me to be part of Bad Monkey and asked and telling me about the character. It’s crazy because the character and I have so much in common. I mean, she’s Cuban American, she’s born and raised in Miami as am I. Just having Bill Lawrence as the Creator, Executive Producer, and writer for the show as I am a huge fan of his. Seeing this ensemble cast with Vince Vaughn (Swingers, Anchorman franchise, Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story), Michelle Monaghan (Mission: Impossible franchise, True Detective, MaXXXine), Jodie Turner-Smith (Queen & Slim, Anne Boleyn, The Acolyte) as well – everyone is so talented and they bring so much to it that it was something that sounded like a really fun project and I love a murder mystery! I had never really done comedy before so to be able to go head-to-head with Vince Vaughn on a comedy – come on, how was I going to pass that up?

AM: 100%

What can you tell us about the character that you play as well as the show?

NM: I play Dr. Rosa Campesino, she is the coroner. When you have her in the script, she’s not fulfilled in her job being a coroner. She loves what she does and there is so much value to it and people are able to find closure and it helps solve cases. It’s a very important job to do, but it also weighs on you after awhile! The things that are coming through those doors can be a little taxing! So I think that she is in a point in her life where she doesn’t know what she wants and is a kind of a little stuck and then Andrew Yancy who is played by Vince Vaughn comes along with this arm that they found in the ocean. The case intrigues her, he intrigues her because he is this quirky big kind of personality. They both get what I would say is obsessed with this case. They want to figure it out and she finds this kind of perspective in life and a new energy that kind of gives her the motivation to find out what she wants to do.

AM: What do you hope that viewers will walk away with in watching this series?

NM: All I can hope for is when people walk away from this series is that they just had a good time! I think that that is one of the most beautiful things about storytelling and one of the beautiful things of creating these shows is that sometimes we just need an escape. We need a story to be able to sink our teeth into it and to dive in. This story gives you a hell of a ride, it’s so much fun, and you have twist and turns. You have a cliffhanger in every episode and then you get that satisfaction of the case at the end and you meet a lot of funny characters along the way!

IG @iamnataliemartinez

PHOTOS COURTESY | Bad Monkey/Apple TV+

Read the AUG ISSUE #104 of Athleisure Mag and see BAD MONKEY | Natalie Martinez in mag.

CATCHING UP WITH ALYSIA REINER

It's always great to circle back to our faves and in this month's issue we sit down with Alysia Reiner who was our cover for our JUN ISSUE #18 in 2017 where we talked with her about Netflix's Orange is the New Black and we also chatted with her in our JUN ISSUE #78 in 2022 talking about Ms. Marvel ahead of the show dropping on Disney+ as well as becoming a volunteer fire fighter!

This month, we find out what she has been up to from joining the cast of Netflix's DIPLOMAT (which we loved the 1st season), to additional shows we can look out for, how she is staying in shape, traveling, and of course, sharing some of her must-haves with us in terms of sustainable style!

ATHLEISURE MAG: It's always fun catching up with you to find out what you were working on. Last time we talked, it was ahead of Ms. Marvel and you were in Shining Vale! Are there any projects coming up that you're able to share with us that we can see you in or keep an eye out for whether it's on the stage, in front of the camera or behind it?

ALYSIA REINER: I’m currently filming the Netflix show THE DIPLOMAT, season 2 comes out Oct 31st! I am also now filming a new independent film called OUR BODIES & OTHER SHAMES, and a film I did called GOING PLACES will be in theaters in the Fall. Also look for the short I made WE SHOULD EAT on the festival circuit!

AM: This year has definitely been interesting! We had an earthquake here in NY, an eclipse, some of us saw the Northern Lights, and we're only halfway through the summer. What have you been up to this summer?

AR: Its a wild world right?? I have been filming in London playing secret service (shhhhh), on fun adventures in Amsterdam and Paris, and relaxing and on duty as a volunteer fire fighter (yes really!) in Fire Island.

AM: You have always been one that enjoys a good workout! This summer, what have been some of your favorite studios that you have been working out at?

AR: I always love RUMBLE IN NYC, and tried RUMBLE in the UK which is a HIIT gym I loved! I also went to Camden Boxing in the UK. AARMY is my go to for cycle both in person and on-line when I am away - I LOVE AKIN so very much as a human and coach - he is magic - the perfect balance of pushing us all to greatness - but with KINDNESS and LOVE.

Here in Fire Island I also train and do BOOTCAMP with Jim - a former marine who kills us!

I just got the META QUEST for workouts with FITXR and cannot wait to try it! I hear such great things!

AM: Do you have any foods or drinks that you like to incorporate into your workouts whether it's for energy or recovery?

AR: YES YES YES! I love to make my own protein smoothies - I keep it very simple but delicious - people say it tastes like ice cream but super clean and sugar free!!!

I LOVE MY SODA STREAM and to add yummy/healthy drops to it - my favs right now are JING and PURE INVENTIONS - both sugar free, zero calories, no chemicals and lots of amazing health benefits from vitamins, electrolytes and adaptogenic mushrooms!

When I am out & about I love a GORGIE or COVE soda, both zero sugar, zero artificial junk and so yum.

MORTAL HYDRATION, CURE, as well as PURE BOOST are my favorite energy/electrolyte packs to throw in my purse or carry on bag for travel - all have yummy and fun flavors - again no crap and lots of health/hydration benefits!

I come from a family of diabetes, so I have to be super careful with sugar - My favorite protein bars are MISFITS and N!CKS - both super low sugar, high protein and taste like CANDY!! NIcks also makes THE BEST (healthy!!) ICE CREAM ON THE PLANET.

AM: What do you do in terms of stretching or relaxing your muscles post workout?

AR: The #1 thing I do is meditation - changes my life daily - so helps me not hold stress in my body. And here is a special discount link to MY ABSOLUTE FAVORITE MEDITATION APP - it is THE BEST !!! I also love YOGA WITH KASSANDRA (free on you tube!), and I try to roll on a roller every night before bed (and also use my red light face mask at the same time - multitasker)

AM: In the next few weeks, we have Fashion Week coming up and you're known for rocking sustainable brands. Are there 3 designers that we should have our eye out for?

AR: I am still mourning Mara Hoffman closing her doors - she is so incredible, a real game changer in Sustainable fashion. I love love love Gabriela Hearst, and I just found Lauren Altman Studio - all repurposed & up cycled and hand painted - I get more compliments on her dress than anything I have ever worn! Check out https://www.instagram.com/remakeourworld for more truth about sustainable fashion!!

IG @alysiareiner

CREDITS | PG 104 PHOTOGRAPHY Laurie Bailey MUA Nova Kaplan | PG 106 PHOTOGRAPHY Anthony Rhoades MUA Brian Dean HAIR Damian Monzillo |

Read the AUG ISSUE #104 of Athleisure Mag and see CATCHING UP WITH ALYSIA REINER in mag.

THE GOLDEN BACHELORETTE S1. E1. | WELCOME JOAN TO THE GOLDEN BACHELORETTE!

PHOTO CREDIT | Disney/Ricky Middlesworth

The series premier of The Golden Bachelorette is finally here and we’re excited for Joan Vassos to start her journey and to see where all the twists and turns will take her! We love that they open with her doing her makeup and seeing what her outfit will be accessorized with. It’s always fun catching these details and seeing how they all come together along with possible options that she could have worn as she gets ready in Malibu.

We get to hear her back story about her life with her husband, John. We see a number of images of her life with him alongside her family. You can tell that there was a lot of love there and then she shares how he was diagnosed with Pancreatic Cancer. She relates to all of us how her life shifted and although she is a mother and a grandmother, it’s time that she focuses on her life now. We liked watching Joan during Gerry Turner’s season of The Golden Bachelor and now she will take center stage and we hope that she has a great group of men that she can learn about.

Her car pulls up and of course, Jesse Palmer is there ready to navigate this experience with her. They both talk about how excited she is to be here as she thought that when she left the mansion, she would not be back.

We get to meet the men that are here for her and they have such great personalities! There’s a retired Naval Captain, a retired FDNY Captain, those who have worked in finance, beauty, and more. All of them are putting their best foot forward and as one man says, “it’s also like meeting my brothers.” The one thing that we really enjoyed about The Golden Bachelor is that for the most part the women were really connected with one another and really leaned on one another and even helped each other prep for dates! It will be interesting to see if that continues in this series as well - but so far, so good! We even see Mark, Kelsey’s dad and it’s great that he was in his own limo with his daughter.

She thanks them for coming and knows how it is to give up things in order to be there. She realizes that when she came last year, she was looking for love and felt deserving after her experience there. We love that Pascal snagged her first! Joan connects with a number of men and then Jesse arrives with the First Impression rose. We see her pick it up and walk past the groups of men to find Keith! She loves that he had a big personality, made her feel safe and even described a date that she would enjoy.

JOAN GAVE ROSES TO | Bob, Charles K, Charles L, Chock, Christopher, Dan, Gary, Gil, Gregg, Guy, Jack, Jonathan, Jordan, Keith, Kim, Pascal, Mark, and Michael.

JOAN DIDN’T GIVE ROSES TO | Bill, David, Ken, Pablo, RJ, and Thomas.

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

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

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

Read the latest issue of Athleisure Mag.

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HERE’S WHO WE THINK WILL GO TO HOMETOWNS

CHRISTOPHER

KIM

MARK

PASCAL

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THE GOLDEN BACHELOR CONTESTANTS

BILL

BOB

CHARLES K.

CHARLES L.

CHOCK

CHRISTOPHER

DAN

DAVID

GARY

GIL

GREGG

GUY

JACK

JONATHAN

JORDAN

KEITH

KEN

KIM

MARK. A.

MICHAEL

PABLO

PASCAL

RJ

THOMAS

9PLAYLIST MULTI | CHEF FARIYAL ABDULLAHI

Read the AUG ISSUE #104 of Athleisure Mag and see 9PLAYLIST MULTI | Chef Fariyal Abdullahi in mag.

AWARDS SEASON | EMMYS WINNERS

Today, the Television Academy announced the 76th Emmys for this year’s nominees. Sheryl Lee Ralph (The Mighty Quinn, Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit, Abbott Elementary) and Tony Hale (Arrested Development, Drunk History, Veep) announced the nominees from the El Capitan Theatre. Programs that were eligible to be nominated had to air between Jun 1, 2023, and May 31st, 2024. The Creative Arts Emmys will run on Sept 7th and the 8th. The Emmys will take place on Sep 15th, 2024 at the Peacock Theater at L.A. Live and will be broadcast live on this date at 8pm ET on ABC and will be available on Hulu for live streaming and on-demand. Jessie Collins Entertainment which is comprised of the trio: Jesse Collins, Dionne Harmon and Jeannae Rouzan-Clay are set to executive produce the telecast for the second year in a row. We will update this post at the end of each night for the 3 portions of the award ceremony.

As we do throughout Awards Season, we share our predictions in bold, the ones we correctly identified as winners are in bold italics and winners that we didn’t predict are in italics. On the night of the event, we will share who we predicted correctly as well as those we didn’t that won.

Best Drama Series

The Crown (Netflix)
Fallout (Prime Video)
The Gilded Age (HBO)
The Morning Show (Apple TV+)
Mr. and Mrs. Smith (Prime Video)
Shogun (FX)
Slow Horses (Apple TV+)
3 Body Problem (Netflix)

Best Actress in a Drama Series

Jennifer Aniston (The Morning Show, Apple)
Carrie Coon (The Gilded Age, HBO/Max)
Maya Erskine (Mr. and Mrs. Smith, Prime Video)
Anna Sawai (Shogun, FX) 
Imelda Staunton (The Crown, Netflix)
Reese Witherspoon (The Morning Show, Apple)

Best Actor in a Drama Series

Idris Elba (Hijack, Apple)
Donald Glover (Mr. and Mrs. Smith, Prime Video)
Walton Goggins (Fallout, Prime Video)
Gary Oldman (Slow Horses, Apple) 
Hiroyuki Sanada (Shogun, FX)
Dominic West (The Crown, Prime Video)

Best Supporting Actress in a Drama Series

Christine Baranski (The Gilded Age, HBO/Max)
Nicole Beharie (The Morning Show, Apple TV+)
Elizabeth Debicki (The Crown, Netflix)
Greta Lee (The Morning Show, Apple TV+)
Lesley Manville (The Crown, Netflix)
Karen Pittman (The Morning Show, Apple TV+)
Holland Taylor (The Morning Show, Apple TV+)

Best Supporting Actor in a Drama Series

Tadanobu Asano (Shogun, FX)
Billy Crudup (The Morning Show, Apple TV+)
Mark Duplass (The Morning Show, Apple TV+)
Jon Hamm (The Morning Show, Apple TV+)
Takehiro Hira (Shogun, FX)
Jack Lowden (Slow Horses, Apple TV+)
Jonathan Pryce (The Crown, Netflix)

Best Guest Actor in a Drama Series

Néstor Carbonell (Shogun, FX)
Paul Dano (Mr. & Mrs. Smith, Prime Video)
Tracy Letts (Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty, HBO/Max)
Jonathan Pryce (Slow Horses, Apple TV+)
John Turturro (Mr. & Mrs. Smith, Prime Video)

Best Guest Actress in a Drama Series

Michaela Coel (Mr. & Mrs. Smith, Prime Video)
Claire Foy (The Crown, Netflix)
Marcia Gay Harden (The Morning Show, Apple TV+)
Sarah Paulson (Mr. & Mrs. Smith, Prime Video)
Parker Posey (Mr. & Mrs. Smith, Prime Video)

Best Comedy Series

Abbott Elementary (ABC) 
The Bear (FX)
Curb Your Enthusiasm (HBO/Max)
Hacks (HBO/Max)
Only Murders in the Building (Hulu)
Palm Royale (Apple TV+)
Reservation Dogs (FX)
What We Do in the Shadows (FX)

Best Actor in a Comedy Series

Matt Berry (What We Do in the Shadows, FX)
Larry David (Curb Your Enthusiasm, HBO/Max)
Steve Martin (Only Murders in the Building, Hulu)
Martin Short (Only Murders in the Building, Hulu)
Jeremy Allen White (The Bear, FX)
D’Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai (Reservation Dogs, FX)

Best Actress in a Comedy Series

Quinta Brunson (Abbott Elementary, ABC)
Ayo Edebiri (The Bear, FX)
Selena Gomez (Only Murders in the Building, Hulu) 
Maya Rudolph (Loot, Apple)
Jean Smart (Hacks, HBO/Max)
Kristen Wiig (Palm Royale, Apple TV+) 

Best Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series 

Lionel Boyce (The Bear, FX)
Paul W. Downs (Hacks, HBO/Max)
Ebon Moss-Bachrach (The Bear, FX)
Paul Rudd (Only Murders in the Building, Hulu)
Tyler James Williams (Abbott Elementary, ABC)
Bowen Yang (Saturday Night Live, NBC)

Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series 

Carol Burnett (Palm Royale, Apple TV+)
Liza Colón-Zayas (The Bear, FX)
Hannah Einbinder (Hacks, HBO/Max)
Janelle James (Abbott Elementary, ABC)
Sheryl Lee Ralph (Abbott Elementary, ABC)
Meryl Streep (Only Murders in the Building, Hulu)

Best Guest Actor in a Comedy Series

Jon Bernthal (The Bear, FX)
Matthew Broderick (Only Murders in the Building, Hulu)
Ryan Gosling (Saturday Night Live, NBC)
Christopher Lloyd (Hacks, HBO/Max)
Bob Odenkirk (The Bear, FX)

Will Poulter (The Bear, FX)

Best Guest Actress in a Comedy Series

Olivia Colman (The Bear, FX)
Jamie Lee Curtis (The Bear, FX)
Kaitlin Olson (Hacks, HBO/Max)
Da’Vine Joy Randolph (Only Murders in the Building, Hulu)
Maya Rudolph (Saturday Night Live, NBC)
Kristen Wiig (Saturday Night Live, NBC)

Best Limited or Anthology Series

Baby Reindeer (Netflix)
Fargo (FX)
Lessons in Chemistry (Apple TV+)
Ripley (Netflix)
True Detective: Night Country (HBO/Max)

Best Actor in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie

Matt Bomer (Fellow Travelers, Showtime)
Richard Gadd (Baby Reindeer, Netflix)
Jon Hamm (Fargo, FX)
Tom Hollander (Feud: Capote vs. the Swans, FX)
Andrew Scott (Ripley, Netflix)

Best Actress in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie

Jodie Foster (True Detective: Night Country, HBO/Max)
Brie Larson (Lessons in Chemistry, Apple) 
Juno Temple (Fargo, FX)
Sofía Vergara (Griselda, Netflix) 
Naomi Watts (Feud: Capote vs. The Swans, FX)

Best Supporting Actor in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie

Jonathan Bailey (Fellow Travelers, Showtime)
Robert Downey Jr. (The Sympathizer, HBO/Max)
Tom Goodman-Hill (Baby Reindeer, Netflix)
John Hawkes (True Detective: Night Country, HBO/Max)
Lamorne Morris (Fargo, FX)
Lewis Pullman (Lessons in Chemistry, Apple TV+)
Treat Williams (Feud: Capote vs. The Swans, FX)

Best Supporting Actress in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie

Dakota Fanning (Ripley, Netflix)
Lily Gladstone (Under the Bridge, Hulu)
Jessica Gunning (Baby Reindeer, Netflix)
Aja Naomi King (Lessons in Chemistry, Apple TV+)
Diane Lane (Feud: Capote vs. The Swans, FX)
Nava Mau (Baby Reindeer, Netflix)
Kali Reis (True Detective: Night Country, HBO/Max)

Best Directing for a Drama Series

Stephen Daldry (The Crown, Netflix)
Mimi Leder (The Morning Show, Apple TV+)
Hiro Murai (Mr. & Mrs. Smith, Prime Video)

Frederick E.O. Toye (Shogun, FX)
Saul Metzstein (Slow Horses, Apple TV+)
Salli Richardson-Whitfield (Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty, HBO/Max)

Best Directing for a Comedy Series

Randall Einhorn (Abbott Elementary, ABC)

Christopher Storer (The Bear, FX)
Ramy Youssef (The Bear, FX)

Guy Ritchie (The Gentlemen, Netflix)
Lucia Aniello (Hacks, HBO/Max)
Mary Lou Belli (The Ms. Pat Show, BET)

Best Writing for a Drama Series

Peter Morgan, Meriel Sheibani-Clare (The Crown, Netflix)

Geneva Robertson-Dworet, Graham Wagner (Fallout, Prime Video)
Francesca Sloane, Donald Glover (Mr. & Mrs. Smith, Prime Video)
Rachel Kondo, Justin Marks (Shogun, FX)

Rachel Kondo, Caillin Puente (Shogun, FX)
Will Smith (Slow Horses, Apple TV+)

Best Writing for a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie

Richard Gadd (Baby Reindeer, Netflix)
Charlie Brooker (Black Mirror, Netflix)
Noah Hawley (Fargo, FX)
Ron Nyswaner (Fellow Travelers, Showtime)
Steven Zaillian (Ripley, Netflix)
Issa López (True Detective: Night Country, HBO/Max)

Best Writing for a Comedy Series

Quinta Brunson (Abbott Elementary, ABC)
Christopher Storer (The Bear, FX)
Meredith Scardino, Sam Means (Girls5eva, Netflix)
Lucia Aniello, Paul W. Downs, Jen Statsky (Hacks, HBO/Max)
Chris Kelly, Sarah Schneider (The Other Two, HBO/Max)
Jake Bender, Zach Dunn (What We Do in the Shadows, FX)

Best Talk Series

The Daily Show (Comedy Central)
Jimmy Kimmel Live! (ABC)
Late Night With Seth Meyers (NBC)
The Late Show With Stephen Colbert (CBS)

Best Reality Competition Series

The Amazing Race (CBS)
RuPaul’s Drag Race (MTV)
Top Chef (Bravo)
The Traitors (Peacock)
The Voice (NBC)

Best SCRIPTED VARIETY Series

Last Week Tonight with John Oliver (HBO)

Saturday Night Live (NBC)

HOST, REALITY OR COMPETITION PROGRAM

RuPaul Charles, "RuPaul's Drag Race" (MTV)

Mark Cuban, Lori Greiner, Kevin O'Leary, Barbara Corcoran, Robert Herjavec and Daymond John, "Shark Tank" (ABC)

Alan Cumming, "The Traitors" (Peacock)

Kristen Kish, "Top Chef" (Bravo)

Jeff Probst, "Survivor" (CBS)

BEST TELEVISION MOVIE

Mr. Monk's Last Case: A Monk Movie (Peacock)

Quiz Lady (Hulu)

Red, White & Royal Blue (Prime Video)

Scoop (Netflix)

Unfrosted (Netflix)

BEST SHORT FORM COMEDY, DRAMA, OR VARIETY SERIES

Carpool Karaoke: The Series (Apple TV+)

The Eric Andre Show

Late Night With Seth Meyers Corrections (NBC)

Only Murders In The Building: One Killer Question (Hulu)

Real Time with Bill Maher: Overtime (HBO)

BEST SHORT FORM NONFICTION OR REALITY SERIES

After The Cut (YouTube)

The Crown: Farewell To A Royal Epic (Netflix)

Hacks: Bit By Bit (HBO Max)

Saturday Night Live Presents: Behind The Sketch (NBC)

Shōgun – The Making Of Shōgun (FX)

OUTSTANDING STRUCTURED REALITY PROGRAM

Antiques Roadshow (PBS)

Diners, Drive-Ins And Dives (Food Network)

Love Is Blind (Netflix)

Queer Eye (Netflix)

Shark Tank (ABC)

UNSTRUCTURED REALITY PROGRAM

Below Deck Down Under (Bravo)

Love On The Spectrum (Netflix)

RuPaul's Drag Race: Untucked (MTV)

Vanderpump Rules (Bravo)

Welcome To Wrexham (FX)

HOST OF A GAME SHOW

Steve Harvey, Celebrity Family Feud (ABC)

Ken Jennings, Jeopardy! (ABC)

Keke Palmer, Password (NBC)

Jane Lynch, Weakest Link (NBC)

Pat Sajak, Wheel Of Fortune (ABC)

Read the latest issue of Athleisure Mag.

63MIX ROUTIN3S | BROOKE BURKE

Read the AUG ISSUE #104 of Athleisure Mag and see 63MIX ROUTIN3S Brooke Burke in mag.

THE BACHELORETTE S21. E9. | THE FINALE

PHOTO CREDIT | ABC The Bachelorette

We’re down to the end now and a decision will be made! We’ll see who Jenn Tran picks or doesn’t on tonight’s episode of The Bachelorette. Devin and Marcus are left to meet Jenn’s family.

While we watch how it all ends, Jesse Palmer is hosting the After the Rose Ceremony and we see Jesse and Jonathan in the audience who cryptically say that they are there for the rumors of whatever happened! Tell us more!

Devin is up first and the family takes some time to get to know him more. Devin speaks so highly of Jenn and you can tell that he has feelings for her. Devin asks Jenn’s brother if he can have the blessing and he says he appreciates that he asked, but he hasn’t talked to the second guy.

Marcus now meets her family and talks about his experience with Jenn and how he wants to see it all the way through with her. Marcus tells his mom and sister that he is trying to get there and his mom says, “oh, you’re not ready to get engaged?” Her brother tells her that she can’t make excuses for him and she needs to know where he stands. In addition, she asks him point blank and he keeps saying things that were said make him feel better, but he is still trying to get there and she feels confused.

Devin and Jenn do a fun ceremony with Hawaaians from the island. They talk about their concerns and worries with one another even though they are excited to be with one another. He hears that she has a fear of abandonment and he realizes that they are a couple and that he will need to be there for her as well. They throw large rocks into the ocean to signify issues that they have had that wore them down that are not being lifted off of them. They submerge themselves into the water so that they can emerge as a new person who are ready to move on. She enjoyed her date with Devin and she enjoyed the love and respect that she felt from him and that he knows what he wants. She also has a final date with Marcus and she doesn’t know where he’s at with her and even when she asks, she can’t get a response so that she can be settled with his answer.

Jesse and Marcus meet up to catch up with what is going on. Even Jesse is confused about how Marcus still doesn’t know and he tells him he needs to look from within to see if he really does love her and if so, he needs to tell her. While she is getting ready for her final date with Marcus, she decides that it is time to get her answers and she’s not going to wait and makes her way to him. She still doesn’t get the answers that she is looking for and he says that he is in love with her and is afraid to lose her, but the fact that it always feels like she has to pull answers out of him and he says that he is scared, that doesn’t necessarily make people excited to be in that situation either. She gets up to take a minute and she knows she has spent a lot of time and energy on someone who doesn’t feel the same way. She comes back and he continues to talk about his love for her and how he has been scared and honest with himself. He tells her he’s not giving her what she needs, She lets him know that she opened his heart to him every time and that she got lost in it and gave too much along the way. She doesn’t want to give and prove herself to be considered to be worth it. She doesn’t want to wait around and see if someone will get there. She lets him know that she is done and although she had hope, she is walking away. She lets him know that she appreciates his honesty so that she got the answers that she needed.

Marcus is on the couch in front of Jesse. He explains that it was tough to watch that back and he knows that it was tough for both of them. He talks about what being in Hawaii was like and how he reflected on where his feelings were and whether he was living up to her expectations. He said that he stumbled on some painful truths and he wanted her to know about them. He explains that when he got home, he wasn’t sure if they made the right choice, but once he was home, he realized that they made the right choice to not go forward. Although it seems that Jenn was the one that said she had to move on.

Although we don’t know what happened between her and Devin yet, she comes out to chat with Marcus. She tells him that the way Devin came to her, she realized that they were not aligned and that her heart was not in the place that she could be with him. She felt that it made sense to talk with him on what would have been their last date so that they could have that closure.

We’re back in Hawaii and we see Devin selecting rings with Neil Lane. She talks with Jesse and says that she will not let him propose to her, she will propose to him so that he knows he will fight for her every day.

We expected to watch the proposal which seemed it would be sweet; however, Jesse said that he couldn’t show the footage without have Jenn say what happened. They left Hawaii engaged; however, he began pulling away from her and not letting her hang with his family or doing any of the promises that he made to her. He broke it off with her and said he had felt this way for a long time and all of a sudden there was nothing.

They still show the video of the proposal which is super uncomfortable to watch. It’s something that definitely made us leave feeling pretty icky.

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

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

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

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WHO IS CONTINUING BEYOND HOMETOWNS

DEVIN (Copy)

JONATHAN (Copy)

MARCUS (Copy)

PHOTO CREDIT | The Bachelor Contestants/Ricky Middlesworth

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THE BACHELORETTE CONTESTANTS

AARON (Copy)

AUSTIN (Copy)

BRENDAN (Copy)

BRETT (Copy)

BRIAN (Copy)

DAKOTA (Copy)

DEVIN (Copy)

DYLAN (Copy)

GRANT (Copy)

HAKEEM (Copy)

JAHAAN (Copy)

JEREMY (Copy)

JOHN M. (Copy)

JONATHAN J. (Copy)

KEVIN (Copy)

MARCUS (Copy)

MARVIN (Copy)

MATT (Copy)

MOZE (Copy)

RICKY (Copy)

SAM M. (Copy)

SAM N. (Copy)

SPENCER (Copy)

THOMAS (Copy)

TOMAS (Copy)

Read the latest issue of Athleisure Mag.

THE BACHELORETTE S21. E9. | THE MEN TELL ALL

PHOTO CREDIT | ABC The Bachelorette

The Men Tell All takes place tonight and the night starts off with a conversation between Grant and his mom letting her know he will be the next The Bachelor. He will also be on the show later on tonight. Jesse Palmer introduces all the men that are part of the Tell All. But first he reminds us that we have unfinished business from last night’s episode of The Bachelorette and we’ll get our answers with Devin and Jenn Tran. So we head back to Hawaii so that he can talk with her about where everything is. He lets her know that they will have a tough conversation. He tells her that he is in a weird headspace because she didn’t reassure him and he didn’t feel chosen. She says that she doesn’t know how to be in a healthy relationship and to be able to be there for him in a way that he has been with him. She realizes that she is not giving what needs to be given and she realizes that if he wasn’t there, she would feel lost. She tells him that she does love him. She explains that she is not good with her words.

At the Rose Ceremony, Devin gets a rose as well as Marcus. Jonathan is sent home and he says that he thinks that she is perfect for him and that he realizes that she doesn’t feel that he was perfect for her. He realized that their relationship was a slow burn and that that was his fault.

Jonathan joins the rest of the men and we begin to scenes that took place throughout the season when the guys interacted with one another as they dated her. Of course, they start with Aaron to find out why he dropped the news that there were men in the house that weren’t there for her. He shares that Devin, Spencer, and Sam N weren’t there for the right reasons. As they go back and forth between each other, Jesse says it’s time to have Sam M in the hot seat so that they can really talk about what is going on.

We watch various moments of Sam M with Jenn and we see that there was a vibe of some sort between the two. We hear a number of the lines that he said to her and we hear how she feels about him. We also see where the turning point of their relationship started. Jesse shares that many people feel that he is not authentic and he asks him if he really loved Jenn. Sam claims that he would never say that he loved her if he didn’t.

Jonathan is now sitting with Jesse and they look at his relationship. We see the attraction from a physical standpoint, but we also see how connecting on other levels was not the easiest for them. Jonathan is looking forward to seeing her and hopes she finds the person that completes her.

Next up is Grant who will be the next The Bachelor. We see how his love story with her ended and we know that his family is excited for this journey that he is about to start. Since he was announced, there have been over 10,000 women that have applied to be on the show since he was announced. Each day, more women are applying to be on the show. We’re looking forward to seeing how his story is going to evolve. Jesse tells him to get used to showering on camera and that Bachelor Nation loves to see lots of suds when they watch people lathering up. Jonathan and Hakeem express how happy they are for him to be part of the show in this capacity. He will also join the rest of the men as Jenn is about to come out to chat with everyone.

Jenn talks with all of the men letting Sam M know that he needs to learn from his experience, chatting with other men that she had connections with at various points. In addition, she enjoys the bloopers. We find out that Hakeem will join Jonathan in Paradise. Charity and Dotun were also on hand to talk to us about what they have been up to as well.

We also get a peek at the final episode and we see that there is still more drama on the way between Devin as well as Marcus. We know that whatever happens - this will be unprecedented and new territory in terms of Bachelor Nation. We can’t wait to see how all of this comes together. We know that she says that she can’t let the guy who is willing to propose to her to go through it. We’ll be back on next Tues for the 3 hour conclusion!

JENN GAVE ROSES TO | Devin, and Marcus.

JENN DIDN’T GIVE ROSES TO | Jonathan

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

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

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

---

WHO ARE THE FINAL TWO?

DEVIN

MARCUS

PHOTO CREDIT | The Bachelor Contestants/Ricky Middlesworth

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THE BACHELORETTE CONTESTANTS

AARON

AUSTIN

BRENDAN

BRETT

BRIAN

DAKOTA

DEVIN

DYLAN

GRANT

HAKEEM

JAHAAN

JEREMY

JOHN M.

JONATHAN J.

KEVIN

MARCUS

MARVIN

MATT

MOZE

RICKY

SAM M.

SAM N.

SPENCER

THOMAS

TOMAS

Read the latest issue of Athleisure Mag.

THE ANCIENT WORLD | LARA WOLF

This month, we're already excited for new shows that will be part of our steady streaming as we navigate the summer! We sat down with Lara Wolf to talk about how she got into the industry, her approach to playing her characters, and her latest project, Those About to Die which is currently streaming on Peacock as a Peacock Original! With an incredible cast and the ability to take us back to Rome, Gladiator Games, and corruption - we knew that we wanted to find out a bit more about what she is up to as well as this series.

ATHLEISURE MAG: What was the first film or TV that made you aware of this industry?

LARA WOLF: Growing up, music was actually more prevalent than film and TV. It was always playing in our house, either from my dad's massive record collection or from him playing the guitar. And I would always sit with him and sing. That was a significant influence on me and the foundation for me seeking to be in the arts later. Of course, I watched every Disney cartoon, but it wasn't until I was a teenager with battles that films like Incendies, Control, Hunger, House of Sand and Fog made me feel a certain way, maybe made me feel understood. And so I started to develop a palette for film, and the more I watched, the more I wanted to be part of the world.

AM: When did you realize that you wanted to be an actor and where did you train to hone in on your craft?

LW: As a kid, I jumped at every opportunity to perform in front of an audience. It allowed me to express myself as a somewhat introverted child otherwise. I didn't grow up in an environment that would encourage performance art professionally, so it didn't cross my mind. But later on, when I was already in college going on to be a psychologist, something was missing, something I couldn't ignore. So, I started reconnecting with that childhood passion and picked vocal classes. This allowed me to release whatever I was holding in, which then snowballed into gigging in bars around town and performing, at the same time watching films, then enrolling in studying film, film history, and film theory, and finally realizing and admitting that I wanted to be in them! But that also required that I move to a place that would offer acting programs, a movie industry, and like-minded people. So, I moved to NYC from Zurich and studied at the Lee Strasberg Institute for 2 years. I have lived there since, continuously honing my actress, singer, and writer skills.

AM: I remember you in Quantico, how do you approach playing characters and what are you looking for when it comes to deciding on whether you want to be attached to a project?

LW: When I receive a script, I quickly notice if I fit into that world and if the character resonates with me. I look for similarities and differences and personalize as much as possible.

When deciding about a project, I ask myself if it is a story I want to tell and if it is something I would be interested in watching. I also get excited about collaborating with a director whose work I admire and with actors I look up to.

AM: We have heard great things about The Performance which is an Arthur Miller (Death of a Salesman, The Crucible, The Price) short story and is directed by Shira Piven (Claws, Sweetbitter, Divorce) and you acted opposite Jeremy Piven (Entourage, Wisdom of the Crowd, Sin City: A Dame to Kill For). Can you tell me about this film, your character Sira and why you wanted to be part of this?

LW: I remember seeing the breakdown that my agent at the time had sent me and thinking: if I don't book this part, then I won't book anything, because the way this character was described fits like a silk glove. They were looking for someone who spoke English, German, and French and could sing jazz. It's so rare that a role would check so many of my boxes. Aside from that, I was excited about the project itself, a period piece based on an Arthur Miller short story about a Jewish-American tap dance group in the 1930s that decides to fly to Europe for a tour right before the second WW and get themselves into a tricky situation. The film explores how far you are willing to go and what you are willing to risk and sacrifice for your passion. And when does your passion turn into greed? While it was a period piece, it's still incredibly relevant today, and I find that very rewarding. It was a blessing getting to work with the wonderful Shira Piven, Josh Salzberg (Welcome to Me, Walking Man, Welcome to Flatch), Robert Carlyle (Stargate Universe, Once Upon a Time, The Full Monty series), Jeremy Piven, and my colleagues, who were fantastic actors and brilliant tap dancers, and it was such a pleasure watching them do the choreographies. Our days were filled with music, dancing, singing, and acting - a dream! Our costumes were phenomenal, and the locations in Bratislava, like the State Opera, helped immensely to dive into the period.

AM: We're looking forward to Peacock Original's Those About to Die! What drew you to this series?

LW: All of it was appealing: the genre, the historical aspect, having Roland Emmerich (The Day After Tomorrow, Independence Day: Resurgence, Moonfall) - the master of big-scale disaster films - lend his expertise to this ancient story, shooting in Rome where it all happened, Sir Anthony Hopkins (The Silence of the Lambs, Nixon, Westworld series) playing the Emperor, and of course, getting to play the Judean Queen Berenice was a dream come true.

AM: What can you tell us about the show as well as your character Queen Berenice?

LW: Her life unfolded against the backdrop of the Roman-Jewish revolts when the Romans burned down the Second Temple and enslaved the Judeans. The Judean Queen Bernice was the daughter of King Agrippa I of the Herodian dynasty, and she was known for her strategic alliances and marriages. There were also rumors about an incestuous relationship with her brother, but there are no facts to prove it, and it might only show the threat she posed as a woman in power. Her most notable relationship was with the son of the Roman Emperor Vespasian (played by Anthony Hopkins), Titus, also known as the destroyer of Jerusalem and its temple. Naturally, this caused controversy and put her in the eye of public scrutiny on the side of the Romans and the Judeans. Despite this, her political acumen, diplomacy, and grace prevailed throughout history. And for me, it was an honor to be given the trust to play her and give voice to this incredibly powerful Queen in our history.

AM: It's a great cast that includes Sir Anthony Hopkins, Johannes Haukur Johannesson, and Iwan Rheon - what was your biggest takeaway from having this experience in this series?

LW: Every time I get to be on a set, it feels like the dream comes true again. My gratitude is beyond words. This is true, especially this time with this collection of incredibly talented actors, two top directors in our industry, and a production team that meets the highest standards. I love knowing that the people I work with are brilliant at their craft because it is a lot of fun working with them and motivates me to be a better actor. Ultimately, it's all about collaboration, honing your craft, getting as close as possible to the slippery idea of perfection, and seeing how it all comes together as a collective work of art.

AM: You've been acting for awhile and been in a number of series, but you are also a writer! When did you realize that you wanted to include this in your storytelling?

LW: From the moment I started this acting journey, different people in the industry encouraged me to write. Up until that point, all I had written were either essays or papers from when I was studying Psychology and Film, all in an academic tone. I had never imagined that I would ever write fiction and dialogue. I had never really seen myself as a writer, but I started dabbling in writing almost secretly and noticed how ideas would come up and evolve. Then, finally during the pandemic, the stories poured out of me, maybe because we were all cooped up and needed to sit still, which is typically not my forte. But it really allowed me to dig deep, improve and find the joy in writing. Currently, I'm working on a play I'm workshopping at the Primitive Grace Theatre Ensemble with Paul Calderón (Fear the Walking Dead, Bosch, Boardwalk Empire) and David Zayas (Michael Clayton, The Blacklist, Dexter) as co-directors.

AM: When you're not in the midst of a project, how do you take time for yourself?

LW: I guess that's exactly when I have the time to take time for myself. And I love getting back into a healthy food/sleep/exercise routine, which is often hard to maintain when working. I use the time between projects to reboot physically and mentally and feed myself creatively by writing or seeing art or plays. As I mentioned, I'm part of a theatre company in NYC which I'm very grateful for as it is my safe, creative place to work with other actors and writers and wonderful mentors. And then I also sing and write music and collaborate with other musicians.

AM: Do you have any upcoming projects that we should keep an eye out for?

LW: Keep an eye out for the film Reading Lolita in Tehran, directed by the renowned Eran Riklis (Shelter, Spider in the Web, A Borrowed Identity). It is based on the same-named NY Times bestseller memoir written by Professor Azar Nafisi and starring the Iranian icon Golshifteh Farahani (Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales, Exodus: Gods and Kings, Invasion).

And there is a next project on the horizon, and I wish I could tell you, but my lips have to remain sealed for now. I can only say that it's an action/spy film with a stellar cast! And you can follow me on @laradwolf for all the updates. Thank you so much!

IG @laradwolf

PHOTOGRAPHY CREDITS | PG 158 Sharon Daniels | PG 161 - 165 Reiner Bajo/Peacock |

Read the JUL ISSUE #103 of Athleisure Mag and see THE ANCIENT WORLD | Lara Wolf in mag.

THE BACHELORETTE S21. E8. | FANTASY SUITES

PHOTO CREDIT | ABC The Bachelorette

Coming off of a great week of Hometowns, we can see that this week, the men are in the midst of emotional struggle in this week’s The Bachelorette. Devin is going through it this week in the teaser! We catch up with Jenn Tran as she invites us to Hawaii. She’s excited that she’s getting toward the end with the 3 remaining men - Jonathan, Devin, and Marcus. She catches up with Molly Mesnick (who was on S13 of The Bachelor) to figure out where she is when it comes to the remaining men.

Devin and Jesse Palmer play a round of golf with one another and you can hear the beginnings of his insecurities and we hear that Jenn is not completely there with him yet as well.

Devin’s date is first and they’re on a helicopter date where they get to see Hawaii. In addition, they talk on the beach to find out what they can expect in their lives when they are back in the real world and not on the show. Devin lets her know that he is ready to be engaged, but we can see that she is not there yet and we can understand why Devin feels that he is getting signs that she may not be in the same place. To tell her that he loves them and for him to not hear it back, could play with anyone’s head. They continue their date to the evening portion and she says in the confidential that she hopes that she can get there with him as she can see all of his efforts. They both decide to go to the Fantasy Suites and Devin is looking forward to chat off-camera as that will be their first time. They spend time with one another and she states that he is better than Pete Davidson in every way. They have their inside jokes, they seem comfortable with one another, and they enjoy breakfast together. She hopes that their time together has helped him get out of his head a little bit. She leaves him and does the solo walk back to her place with her bag from the night before as she goes across the Fairmont property in her robe and slippers.

Jenn arrives in a Jeep for her date with Jonathan. She has an adventure date for him to go to some markets and to try some foods. They go to some food trucks and you can see that he is shocked that he has a forced cheat day since they will eat filled donuts together. He enjoys spending time with her. They continue with a picnic in the forest that is near a massive waterfall. They take the time to talk and to continue to see how they connect with one another. He recognizes that he can’t keep beating around the bush with her and he needs to take the initiative. They continue onto the evening portion of the date and you can tell that she likes Jonathan more than she likes Devin as she feels stronger connections. She talks with him about how much she enjoyed being at his Hometowns and how connected she felt with them as well. She shares with him that it is important the she shares her culture and where she comes from and she wants to impart that on her kids when she has them. They opt to spend the night together.

They wake up they do look cute in bed with one another. In Jonathan’s confessional, he says that he can see himself getting down on one knee. But then we see Devin walking around and he’s back in his head again as per usual! As Devin spirals. we see Jesse and Marcus playing golf together and talking about what he’s looking forward to as he’s about to take his date. Marcus is still waffling.

But they begin their date and we’ll see more about how they are connected. In her confessional, she says that she is in love with Marcus and hopes that they will be able to pick up exactly where they left off. Their date involves a boat where they cruise out to the ocean as they continue to talk about Hometowns, how their lives fit together and continuing the chemistry that they have had throughout this process. They are going snorkeling at sunset where they can see the inhabitants of the ocean.

They have dinner together and he opens up to her to chat with her on where he is. He feels he wants to get his life right as he knows that he comes from a broken home. He lets her know he is worried and that he is unsure and she deserves someone who is sure. He doesn’t know if he can continue. He tells her that he is not in love and you can see her assessing everything that has just taken place especially because she had planned on telling him that she was in love with him! She does tell him that she is in love with him and that she feels the need to get it off her chest and not as a means to force him to say anything as she didn’t want to short change herself by not letting him know that. They go on the Fantasy Suites date, but to us, it’s a bit awkward as he has stated his position. They have a great night and she knows its a terrifying place to be in love with someone who is not with you. She knows that next week the remaining men will get to meet her family.

Back at the lobby bar area, Devin gets in his head again and ends up talking with Jesse and letting him know that he doesn’t feel like he is in a good place. He feels he didn’t get the reassurance that he needs and he doesn’t feel whole. Jesse is the perfect listening ear for him.

JENN GAVE ROSES TO | Devin, Jonathan, and Marcus.

JENN DIDN’T GIVE ROSES TO |

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

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

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

---

WHO IS CONTINUING BEYOND HOMETOWNS

DEVIN

JONATHAN

MARCUS

PHOTO CREDIT | The Bachelor Contestants/Ricky Middlesworth

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THE BACHELORETTE CONTESTANTS

AARON

AUSTIN

BRENDAN

BRETT

BRIAN

DAKOTA

DEVIN

DYLAN

GRANT

HAKEEM

JAHAAN

JEREMY

JOHN M.

JONATHAN J.

KEVIN

MARCUS

MARVIN

MATT

MOZE

RICKY

SAM M.

SAM N.

SPENCER

THOMAS

TOMAS

Read the latest issue of Athleisure Mag.

STORIES FROM THE DELTA | NICCO ANNAN + SHOSHANA GUY

Readers of Athleisure Mag know that we enjoy watching STARZ’s P-Valley. In fact, we even interviewed members of the cast for our MAY ISSUE #77 for the last season of this series. This series focuses on Chucalisa and the chosen family of those that work at The Pynk. In this series, we get to know about this strip club, those who work there, and the events that take place in the community that affect those that work there. We love that we get to see a lot about these multi-dimensional characters in terms of their hopes, dreams, how they support one another and beyond!

Although we’re all waiting for the upcoming season of P-Valley, today we get to watch Down in the Valley that lets us know more about the cities that represent Chucalisa as well as the stories that come from there as well as how elements of those lives directly tie into the show. In this companion series with 6 episodes hosted by and is Executive Produced by Nicco Annan (Shameless, Snowfall, Claws) who plays Uncle Clifford in the show and Executive Produced by Shoshana Guy (Rock Center with Brian Williams, High on the Hog: How African American Cuisine Transformed America, The 1619 Project), we get to hear their stories and learn more about what we have all come to love about this series!

We had the chance to sit down with them to talk about the Mothership show, how this series came about, why it was created, and what we can expect from it!

ATHLEISURE MAG: Before we delve into Down in the Valley, what attracted you to P-Valley and why did you want to be in this incredible show which I have loved watching over the seasons?

NICCO ANNAN: Well thank you, what attracted me to this show, P-Valley, I am going to say is the fact that it was created by such an auteur as Katori Hall (The Mountaintop, Hurt Village, Tina - The Tina Turner Musical). She is really a person who I love her work in the theater and I was reading her work before I was actually even auditioning for anything like that. I also love that it was something that was a true reflection of where I came from and all different types of our culture. It wasn’t just limited to a narrow viewpoint of how I saw myself and my community.

AM: In watching the show, I love the complexities, the characters, the topics that are talked about, and the city almost becomes a character in and of itself. Although I know that the city portrayed in the series is fictionalized, it seems more like a composite of a number of cities in the South. How did Down in the Valley come about as I feel that it allows the city as a character to step forward a little bit.

NA: Yes, part of Down in the Valley, we wanted to be able to go to different cities, You're absolutely right! Chucalisa, Mississippi is a fictitious city, but it is a real Native American burial ground. In the world of P-Valley, all of this is behind us and we are really an amalgamation of the South and it would be almost like if Jackson, Mississippi and Memphis had a baby! You know with a Mama in Tunica. Haha – that’s Chucalisa.

One of the things you know that Shoshana and I talked about in creating this show, Down in the Valley, we really wanted to go to different parts of the South that were in The Delta – that Bible Belt space to see what it was really like. It was about the real people and the real places!

AM: So how did both of you become attached the show. Shoshana, I have also been a fan of your work as a journalist and a producer. As a Telecom major in college, I have been enthralled by your work. How did both of you come to this project?

SHOSHANA GUY: I had worked sort of adjacent to Starz on the 1619 Project and so I had a relationship with them there and you know, I am always looking for new folks to collaborate with so it was really exciting for the idea of - I mean, I love the Mothership Show as we call it. So it was a really exciting idea for me to be collaborating with Nicco and Katori and of course, a new production company Zero Point Zero (Nomad with Carlton McCoy, United Shades of America w Kamau Bell, Somebody Feed Phil) which it was produced out of. So once I sort of had that initial relationship, the idea of collaborating with a new group of people was very appealing to me so when I got the call, I said yes, that sounds interesting to me.

AM: And Nicco?

NA: What’s the question?

AM: We love you in the Flagship show but what drew you to come in as the host and the Executive Producer in this show? What were the stories that you wanted to tell as you mentioned earlier about focusing on the different cities and the people within it. I came across a quote that, “even though The Valley is a concept, and a state of mind, it actually reflects various areas.” As someone who is from the Midwest originally and has lived in NY for over 2 decades, I love learning about other communities.

NA: You know, when I created this show, I had the idea for this show back during S1 of P-Valley! So it was something that was always in my mind and it was about the right time. The industry has been going through a lot of restructuring, the big strike, there was this thing called COVID that the entire world experienced. So it just felt like, now is the time that we can have some space to do it. I had a little time off from the Flagship show, so when I brought it to the network, my ideas and I got that all pitched out and partnered up here with Shoshana, we really went in and found a team of people, a team of diverse people, Black women, queer people, people that were connected and had passion for the South to be able to come together and to tell this story and always having Katori in the mix!

It's so funny because my brain really just went for half a second to the script and the world of Chucalisa and I had to say, wait!

SG: Haha you were going to recite some lines for us?

NA: Right! I was going to go into a whole other place!

SG: Yeah! He’s an amazing multi-tasker!

AM: Right haha!

NA: It was just a natural, I mean honestly, it was a natural process and it was a labor of intense love, it has been one of severe dedication, you know to make during this past year. And it’s something that we wanted to do where it wasn’t about a replacement of P-Valley, it is about an expansion and creating something more. I really felt like it was an opportunity because I meet fans and other members of the Pynk Posse and there is an intense love! We can be quite intense and so I wanted to make sure that I could do something that is reflective of who I am meeting and who I am encountering, and I think that sometimes in life, you can forget the beauty and the strength that we can come from. So, I wanted to make something that was full of love, full of intention, and low on trauma.

SG: Yeah, I have to add to that to say that one of the fun things about being in the field is watching people’s reactions to Nicco was that they already felt so connected to him because of this character that he plays in the show. It was such an interesting and enjoyable piece of the operation to be moving around in space and to see how it all came together!

Remember when we went to the tailgating event?

NA: Yes!

SG: This older woman came up to me and asked me could he come over for just a second? So I looked over to where Nicco was and I said (waving her arms over), come on over here! She said to the group, “he’s coming home!”

NA: Yesss!

SG: I always remember that moment because it really felt symbolic of the way that people feel about the Mothership Show and also for us to be able to bring that feeling of home onto the screen.

AM: In preparation for this interview, I watched the entire season as I wanted to have a great backdrop for this series and to juxtapose that with the Mothership show.

I love that there are aspects of Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations. As you have this travel component in many respects and you also have this journalistic and getting into sociopolitical issues that are taking place and doing this without having the trauma aspect involved. That is such a complicated, nuanced, and beautiful mix to be able to put that together in a half hour show that is not coming off preachy, but is talking about issues that are also a crossover into what is being discussed and shown in the Mothership!

SG: Girl, who are you telling?

AM: I mean, in your mind it’s like “boop, boop, boop” triangulating all of this!

NA: Hahaha!

AM: I mean, I’m impressed by it and seeing how it is laid out and the depths of its connective tissue – it’s amazing.

NA: Oh thank you!

SG: Yes, thank you so much! It’s wonderful that you see the notes of No Reservations in there because we obviously produced it out of that kind of legendary production company, so it’s always going to have that sort of feel and flavor of that underneath it. You know, I'm a trained journalist, I have a degree from Columbia University. I worked at NBC News for many many years. So everything that I approach, has that kind of journalist feel underneath it. I’m always interested in how stories and narratives collide with real issues that are going on. We know that as Black people, it’s always a lot of things that we are working on, building on, celebrating, but also processing as a people. So our goal was to make sure that that came through. A nice balance of the fun and also the real things that we go through.

NA: To also add in, all of the creativity with the dance, and the dance elements that are in the storytelling, it’s connected. Things are elevated and there are moments of hyperreality so to speak. Like you experience that in the Mothership Show, we experience it in real life. It was just a way to capture that on screen and really tell these complex stories of real people who have real lives that are intertwined and showing you that it is really laced into the stories of P-Valley in this fictional world and here is the real world that is showing you those real things. Elements like how Hoodoo is ensconced in the community and it’s not something that the character Diamond (Tyler Lepley) just came up with out of thin air, you know what I mean? Some things like the superstition that we all have of “don’t sweep my feet,” like my grandmother would say that. Or throwing salt over their shoulder you know what I mean? Little things like that that you don’t necessarily know the root of, but you’re able to go in here and see where it all derives from in a fun, sexy, and entertaining way.

While we wait for the next season of P-Valley, watch Down in the Valley on STARZ and/or stream it on the STARZ app.

IG @alldaynicco

@pvalleystarz

@shoshanaguy

PHOTOS COURTESY | Down in the Valley/Starz

Read the JUL ISSUE #104 of Athleisure Mag and see STORIES FROM THE DELTA | Nico annan + Shoshana Guy

THE BACHELORETTE S21. E7. | WELCOME TO HOMETOWNS

PHOTO CREDIT | ABC The Bachelorette

It’s Hometowns on The Bachelorette and we’re starting off in Houston with Devin! Jenn Tran actually did what we think is the first run and jump of the season! He’s excited that he can show her his city as well as to plan their date. They’re participating in his run club that he enjoys every Wed. It’s nice that they have a Love Run where she gets to meet his friends and take in elements of the city as well. She also loves to run so that’s pretty cool that that works with her lifestyle as well.

She also meets his dog Charlie which she’s pretty cute. We didn’t initially have Devin and Jenn as a couple that would make it to Hometowns and although we do feel that there were times he provided drama, it does seem like he could be a great fit and that he is genuine about Jenn - but we’ll just have to see how all of this shakes out.

They make their way to meeting Devin’s family which is his mom, dad, grandfather, grandmother, brother, and his step dad (which Jenn reminds him of). They catch his family up on what they have been through over the past few weeks. His family seems really sweet. Hearing Devin and his dad Temo chat really showed the love between them. In the conversation between Jenn and his mom, it seems like such a loving vibe as well. His mother talks about how it took time to find her love story and that she knows it hasn’t been easy for him. Jenn let her know that she saw similarities between their families.

It seems like the date went well and with the backing of his mom, he tells her that he loves her. It was great that his mom let her know that now is not the time to be coy and to try to wait things out. Jenn tells him that she is also falling in love with him and that she does see a future with him.

We see Jenn in Fairfield, CT which is Jeremy’s Hometown - another energetic hug at a park he enjoys going to. They’re going shopping since they did that in Melbourne as well as in Seattle. They make their way to Stew Leonard’s. There are animatronics, items to sample, costume characters and more. As they enjoy eating hot lobster rolls that they shared, his aunt comes by unplanned. They had a great time with one another as they always do, but she wants to see him have a serious side and to make sure they they are on the same page. She looks forward to seeing more of his family so she can get those answers to see if he is ready for an engagement.

They make their way to his family and it’s interesting to see the dynamics. His mom Karen says in her confessional that what Jenn mentioned in terms of what she looks for in a guy is not her son! Sometimes it’s your own family and friends that share what they know to be true. When his younger sister Emily talks with Jenn she lets her know that his walls are not down and he is guarded. She talks with her brother and asks if he sees a future with her. Emily lets him know that Jenn feels that he is guarded and Jeremy is surprised that that is how she felt. He feels that he has tried to be vulnerable. When he talks with his mom, Karen asks if they have talked about serious things and she wants him to understand that fun is great, but he has to dig deeper to know who Jenn is. She continues to try to to understand the dynamic by sitting down with Jenn to find out more. She asks if they have a bond that goes beyond the fun part of their dynamic. Jenn asks if she thinks that he would be ready. Karen says that if it was the right person he could be ready, but it seems like she’s trying to let her know that she doesn’t think that he is ready.

Even though Jeremy and Jenn recap with one another, it’s quite clear to us that there is no way he goes past Hometowns.

Onto San Diego where she will meet up with Jonathan! Another physical date brings them to playing Lacrosse as they both played. So they have the opportunity to hang out with one another and to keep it easy. After playing on the field, they enjoy some champagne and they talk about the fact that he has some walls up and that they need to be brought down. He lets her know that he does see something there, but it’s hard for him to navigate his feelings, but he feels that there is something there. She is concerned that he is not able to fully get there with her in the time that she would like to see it in.

They continue on to his family and as we got a sneak peek at some of the conversation, we’re looking forward to how this part of the date unfolds. His Sister-in-Law shares how they met on Tinder, said I love you on the 3rd date, moved in together within 2 weeks and they have been married for 4 years and have been together for 7. Jonathan’s brother lets her know that because of his past, he is super protective of him. In speaking with his mother, Jenn is looking to get her feedback and she knows his brother is very hesitant about the process that they have gone through even though he met his wife on Tinder. Jenn explains that she understands that he is holding back, but she wants him to open up so that they can get there and have a stronger relationship ultimately. When Jonathan and his mom sit down to talk, she asks him why he is holding back.He lets her know that he wanted to get reassurance from his family and more importantly, his mom. He asks if she sees her being long terms. His mom said yes and you can see the weight lift off of his shoulders. She tells him that he has to put himself out there and to take that chance in order to go forward.

He lets her know that his family loved her and that he really needed today in order to connect more with her. He let her know that he is falling for her and that he feels it. She lets him know that she is falling for him as well.

It’s the last Hometowns date! We finally get to see Marcus and his family in Tacoma, Washington. Going into Hometowns, we felt that this date would be one that would go well. He lets her know that he will meet his sister, but not his adoptive family. In addition, he has some of his friends who he feels is family who will be there to meet her. He knows that he has struggled to be open to falling in love and having a future with Jenn and he feels stuck so he wants to find out what his support system thinks. Ultimately, he tells her that he is falling for her. She says the same.

All 4 Hometowns have concluded and now it’s about Jenn selecting those that should continue on the journey. The 4 contestants meet up for some beers to catch up on what they have gone through.It’s the last time they will be together before the rose ceremony. Marcus realizes that everyone seems comfortable with their Hometowns and that at any point, they would be ready to propose. Marcus realizes that he feels like he is behind. He realizes he shouldn’t feel the way he is feeling and yet he does - the epitome of conflicted.

All of the guys arrive and wait for the rose ceremony begin. Jenn arrives and connects with Jesse Palmer as they quickly debrief on what he past few days have been like.

She lets the men know how important Hometowns was and how it allowed her to reflect on what she needed. These were hard questions that were necessary for her to know so that she can pick the right men to continue. She sends Jeremy home which is not a surprise if you think about the feedback that Jenn received from his family.

Next week we have Fantasy Suites as well as the Men’s Tell All on back to back days and we hear more from the men on where their heads are at.

JENN GAVE ROSES TO | Devin, Jonathan, and Marcus.

JENN DIDN’T GIVE ROSES TO | Jeremy

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

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

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

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WHO IS CONTINUING BEYOND HOMETOWNS

DEVIN

JONATHAN

MARCUS

PHOTO CREDIT | The Bachelor Contestants/Ricky Middlesworth

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THE BACHELORETTE CONTESTANTS

AARON

AUSTIN

BRENDAN

BRETT

BRIAN

DAKOTA

DEVIN

DYLAN

GRANT

HAKEEM

JAHAAN

JEREMY

JOHN M.

JONATHAN J.

KEVIN

MARCUS

MARVIN

MATT

MOZE

RICKY

SAM M.

SAM N.

SPENCER

THOMAS

TOMAS

Read the latest issue of Athleisure Mag.

THE BACHELOR S29. E0. | MEET GRANT ELLIS!

PHOTO CREDIT | DISNEY/John Fleenor

Last night, we saw that Grant Ellis was not going to be heading to Hometowns. We enjoyed seeing him throughout this season’s The Bachelorette’s as he competed for the heart of Jenn Tran. We were shocked that in the middle of the night they announced him as The Bachelor for Season 29! We can’t wait to see who will be on his season and to get to know more about him. But until then, we’ll look forward to what’s about to take place!

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

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

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

Read the latest issue of Athleisure Mag.

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HERE’S WHO WE THINK WILL GO TO HOMETOWNS

BILL (Copy)

CHRISTOPHER S. (Copy)

JORDAN H. (Copy)

KIM B. (Copy)

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THE GOLDEN BACHELOR CONTESTANTS

BILL (Copy)

BOB (Copy)

CHARLES K. (Copy)

CHARLES L. (Copy)

CHOCK (Copy)

CHRISTOPHER S. (Copy)

DAN R. (Copy)

DAVID H. (Copy)

GARY L. (Copy)

GIL R. (Copy)

GREGG L. (Copy)

GUY C. (Copy)

JACK L. (Copy)

JONATHAN R. (Copy)

JORDAN H. (Copy)

KEITH G. (Copy)

KEN O. (Copy)

KIM B. (Copy)

PABLO (Copy)

PASCAL (Copy)

R.J. (Copy)

THOMAS H. (Copy)

MARK. A. (Copy)

MICHAEL S. (Copy)

THE GOLDEN BACHELORETTE S1. E0. | MEET THE MEN

PHOTO CREDIT | Disney/Ricky Middlesworth

Last night, we enjoyed seeing who will make it to Hometowns for The Bachelorette’s as Jenn Tran made some serious decisions. We know that the highs and lows aren’t over, but this morning, we also heard that The Bachelor is going to be Grant Ellis who just missed the cutoff to go to Hometowns! We can’t wait for what his season will be like as it will begin to film soon. Of course, with so much going on in Bachelor Nation, we’re excited for The Golden Bachelorette! Joan Vassos whose series and season will premier on Sept 18th!

We loved her when we saw the connection she had with Gerry Turner during his season of The Golden Bachelor and many felt that she would give Theresa Nist quite a run! But then she chose to go home during Week 3 when her daughter had a medical emergency. Both were upset that their journey came to such a sudden end. But now, we’ll be able to see what her journey to love will look like. We know that she is a mother of 4, grandmother of 2, after 32 years of marriage she is a widower. We can’t wait to see who will be vying for her heart and how it all comes together!

Today, they announced the men that would be competing for her heart! As usual, we have shared all the men and who we think could make their way to Hometownws. Each week, we will continue to guess and see how it all goes! Until the season starts, enjoy the below.

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

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

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

Read the latest issue of Athleisure Mag.

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HERE’S WHO WE THINK WILL GO TO HOMETOWNS

BILL

CHRISTOPHER S.

JORDAN H.

KIM B.

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THE GOLDEN BACHELOR CONTESTANTS

BILL

BOB

CHARLES K.

CHARLES L.

CHOCK

CHRISTOPHER S.

DAN R.

DAVID H.

GARY L.

GIL R.

GREGG L.

GUY C.

JACK L.

JONATHAN R.

JORDAN H.

KEITH G.

KEN O.

KIM B.

PABLO

PASCAL

R.J.

THOMAS H.

MARK. A.

MICHAEL S.

THE BACHELORETTE S21. E6. | FORGING AHEAD

PHOTO CREDIT | ABC The Bachelorette

This week, The Bachelorette is in Seattle - interesting that they are back in the States after being in Australia and New Zealand. We catch up with Jenn Tran and we realize that next week is Hometowns! She reminds us that this was the week that she was sent home before that key week. We see her with Charity who is down to give her some advice. With 7 men there, she knows that this number has to go down to 4! Charity gives her advice on what she should keep her eye out for and she also walks through each of the men.

Even the guys know that if they get that rose, their families will be able to meet her so the stakes are pretty high. The guys want the 1-on-1 to get that time. The date card arrives and it is attached to a large box. Marcus gets it. he gets a Letterman Jacket and heads out to meet Jenn.

This will be their 2nd 1-on-1 date and she lets us know that he has held back a little bit so she hopes that he will step it up. It’s a big deal to see where they will go. Clearly, they will enjoy touring around Seattle, but Jesse Palmer hops off a trolley and let’s them know that they will experience The Emerald City and they will have a bit of Wicked magic that is following along on their date. Kelsey and Daisy are also on the date and they were on Jenn’s season when they all competed for Joey’s heart. Nice that they brought them here. In addition to doing various activities, the bubble portion is interesting because he’s able to share elements of his life with her that he may not have done on his own. Jenn also has balloons that share more about who she is which is great for Marcus. After revealing items about themselves, they continue to walk and meet up with the original Bachelorette, Trista who gives her words of advice within the Wicked theme! It’s a great date idea for them. Of course, they have a bit of heights in the date with the hot air balloon.

Back at the hotel suite, the 6 men know that this is a big date and they hope that they will get the remaining 1-on-1 date. They all feel that they need it for whatever they want to be able to share with her. The date card arrives and Spencer, Jonathan, Sam, Devin, and Grant are all listed. It seems like Jeremy may have the 1-on-1 date.

Back on Marcus and Jenn’s date, they make their way to dinner at T-Mobile Park. They are sitting on the field at a table for 2. She tells him that she wants to be his safe space and that he can be vulnerable with her. He appreciates that she wants to be that way and that she sees that he is trying to do this with her. He wants to be honest with her about everything. He lets her know that he does not come from a perfect family by any means. He lets her know that they were born into a rough situation and that their parents could not take care of them. They were left behind in a daycare facility and no one came back for them. He lets her know that they grew up in foster care and that people seemed to want to be their parents and they would end up being sent back. So he has a hard time being open, sharing his feelings and having a sense of roots. She is saddened to hear this and she understands that both of them have battled feeling loved as well as growing up in non-traditional families. She gives him the rose and he is going onto Hometowns.

The group date has them on a radio show for iHeart Radio show, Love On Air Seattle. They learn that they will get to answer questions that are provided by the radio team. Devin knows that Sam will definitely get himself in trouble as he’s not someone that can speak without putting his foot in his mouth. He talks, but what is he saying and everyone can feel that he’s not saying anything that answers the questions. Jenn visibly reacts and lets us know that what he is saying is not authentic. The radio team hears from the men and thinks that Sam should spend time with her to chat because it seems like he needs more time to get his thoughts across. The other guys get to watch the interaction on the screen, but the team remains with them. Jenn feels that when she asks him pointed questions, she does not get the answers that makes her feel comfortable. He tells her that when he got out of the limo, he felt that he would get his wife; however, she is not his type and that he thought it was going to be Maria or Daisy! He then explains that he wants a ferocious love and that he wants to be a father and a husband. But he never talks about Jenn and what he likes about her and he has the radio team watching him. The guys watching via the screen all see that he is not speaking with her and talking about her!

At the group date after party, she lets the guys know that one of her conversations frustrated her as she didn’t get what she was looking for. She lets them know that she is looking to make connections. We love how Grant lets her know that he likes her, respects her, and cherishes her. He sees a relationship with her and wants her to know that he is falling in love with her. She continues to chat with the other men and she appreciates how they are being clear with her. Jonathan sees a future and Spencer says that he is there for the right reason as well. She feels seen and understood. Devin tells her that he enjoys the thought of her coming home to his family which is an awesome way to tell her his feelings. She tells Devin that she is falling in love with him as well. We weren’t sure about Devin, but we can see the two of them would make a cute couple.

Devin asks Sam does he think that the person she is talking about is him? Sam seems to think that it could be anyone, but not him. Jenn asks Sam to talk with her as she feels there is a disconnect because he can’t back up his feelings for her. She doesn’t understand what is going wrong between them. She tells him that they had great chemistry previously, but during the date, she doesn’t feel that there is a connection and she wants clarity. Sam seems very uncomfortable communicating and is clearing his throat throughout their conversation. She keeps asking him why he likes her and he can’t articulate it and then he says that it’s because he loves her. She has no idea where the “L” word is coming from as she doesn’t feel that it is real. He just says that ferocious and reckless love is what they have and she lets him know that they need more conversations so that they can be on the same page with one another. Although she knows she wants to continue with him, she is seeing some flags and they’re not green. There is no group date rose that is being given out and she wants to be able to think about everything. She’s not sure that she wants to meet his family.

Even Sam realizes that their interaction wasn’t great and he’s walking the streets of Seattle thinking that that may be the last time that they get the chance to talk. Even the other guys realize that what went down doesn’t bode well for him.

She makes her way to Pike Place Market which we have been at a few times, Seattle is a great down and what a cute date for her and Jeremy to explore this Farmer’s Market. They get to catch a fish that is thrown across the market, there’s the awesome bronze pig that is there, flowers and so much more. She wants to talk more to see what their connection is. He makes her a bouquet and lets her know that he wants her to meet his family. They even hang out at The Gum Wall. He knows that there are other relationships that are further along than his; however, he still wants her to know that he is there. They even debrief over lunch about how her date was the night before and he asks her how she feels.

They continue into the night portion of the date at Chihuly garden and glass for dinner. Once again, we have attended this space and it’s amazing anytime of day, but at night - it’s spectacular. She lets him know that she needs to ask the serious questions and how they can fit their families together. They connect on their families and being able to integrate Jewish and Buddhist foundations for their children. She gives him the rose.

She enters the men’s hotel suite and wants to figure out where Sam’s head is at because she doesn’t know why he likes her, what he is attracted to about her and more. To get clarity she asks him again as she feels that he is only saying things to make her happy. He then tells her that he can’t put his feelings into words for her. The double talking that he is doing confuses her and she takes a moment to figure out where she’s at.

The guys ask one another what they think is going on - but they know that the energy is off. She comes back to Sam and says that they had a great journey, but in this conversation, she realizes that he didn’t ask her at all what she thought. She lets him know that she doesn’t understand how he loves her, but he doesn’t see her and really know anything about her. She explains that she has closed the chapter of her life of telling people how to love her and to be with her and that she is done with that. Sam’s time is over and of course he was so awful on the way out calling her “dull.”

Devin receives a rose and the last man who will make his way into Hometowns joining him, Marcus, and Jeremy will be Jonathan. Although Grant didn’t get a rose, in the early hours of Tuesday morning, social was a buzz with the selection of Grant being the next Bachelor! He came so close to Hometowns and we can’t wait to see him helm the 29th season of this show! But before we can watch his season, we will see Joan take her place next month as The Golden Bachelorette.

JENN GAVE ROSES TO | Devin, Jeremy, Jonathan, and Marcus.

JENN DIDN’T GIVE ROSES TO | Grant, Sam, Spencer

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

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

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

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THEY ARE GOING TO HOMETOWNS

DEVIN

JEREMY

JONATHAN

MARCUS

PHOTO CREDIT | The Bachelor Contestants/Ricky Middlesworth

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THE BACHELORETTE CONTESTANTS

AARON

AUSTIN

BRENDAN

BRETT

BRIAN

DAKOTA

DEVIN

DYLAN

GRANT

HAKEEM

JAHAAN

JEREMY

JOHN M.

JONATHAN J.

KEVIN

MARCUS

MARVIN

MATT

MOZE

RICKY

SAM M.

SAM N.

SPENCER

THOMAS

TOMAS

Read the latest issue of Athleisure Mag.

HEADING TO THE WINDY CITY | ALISON VICTORIA

We love watching a reality show where we learn something that we can implement in our own lives or be a source of general knowledge to share with our friends, family, and colleagues! There’s nothing better than a educational docu-series that is also a great source of entertainment. We caught up with Alison Victoria, Executive Producer and Host of Windy City Rehab as well as a recent nominee for a Daytime Emmy! We wanted to know more about her passion for interior design and building homes, coming to HGTV, all of the shows that we should have in mind as we settle down in our favorite spot, and what it means for her to receive the award accolades that have come her way. We also loved hearing about how she gives back and the importance of powering others either in the business or even when it comes to getting that first home!

ATHLEISURE MAG: What was the first space or home that made you realize that you love interior design or being able to create something new?

ALISON VICTORIA: My childhood bedroom. I shared a tiny room with my sister. I started by rearranging the space. It was like, how do I get my bed further from hers? How do I make this room feel like it’s my room? Then I started turning old Laura Ashley dresses into pillows and painting the furniture. Around that same time I was spending a lot of time at the house of my best friend Britt, I remember convincing her to tear up her carpet and get to the hardwood flooring. We ended painting everything peach.

AM: How old were you when you were ripping up the flooring?

AV: 11.

AM: And who was your inspiration?

AV: My mom always loved design and she designed our whole house so I definitely absorbed a lot of that from her.

AM: How do you define your design aesthetic?

AV: I think of it as vintage and modern. I take the heart from objects of the past and add in the optimism of the future to create something new. It’s eclectic and full of life, but it’s design that accentuates the way we live now.

AM: I am the Co-Founder/Creative + Style Dir. Of Athleisure Mag, I am also a fashion stylist. So if I have someone reach out to me I’m looking for people who want to have statement driven looks whether it’s based in athleisure, evening wear, out and about etc. But it’s about people who are looking to take their style and add various elements which includes visual texture as well as accessories. Someone who may be more of a minimalist or maybe they’re into a goth aesthetic, may not be a project that I opt to take on initially. I’m wondering what you look for when it comes to attaching yourself to your various design projects?

AV: It really comes down to personality and the connection that I feel. Sometimes I connect with the people over the project and sometimes it’s the other way around. I’m an artist and when I feel inspired, I design.

AM: I have been aware of you and your work for a number of years; however, I happened to check out your show during the pandemic that was when you turned your warehouse into your home.

With all of your work in the industry, how did you come to HGTV to become the Executive Producers of your shows as well as a TV Host?

AV: X years ago, I got a random email from a production company that was looking for a ghost designer to work on a show in Chicago. I responded, “I’m your girl.” I had no idea what that meant but I knew it was a start. I realized quickly that what it meant was long hours for no money, no credit, and no air time, but it was an entry point.

There were no shortcuts. It hasn’t been a straight line, but I had a dream of what I wanted to do with my life and how I wanted to run my business and I’ve put all of my energy towards those goals.I try to always represent my real vulnerability in the shows I produce and the shows where I’m in. I hope others fin something useful in how that looks, and as long as they do, I will keep going.

AM: You’ve been nominated for the Daytime Emmys and Critics Choice Real TV Awards for Windy City Rehab, what does this mean to you?

AV: Oh my gosh! Dreams do come true! My dream was to be nominated for an Emmy. I didn’t even go as far as to say that I wanted to win. Just being nominated is a huge honor. I love to design, I love making people’s dreams come true. Combining the two and then receiving the recognition just takes it to a whole new level of like, wow, people are actually getting this. And not only are they getting it, they are recognizing it as great television. As an Executive Producer and as a creator of my show, that means much more to me then if I was just talent. I created it, I’m an EP, I’m on air talent, and I’m the designer so it couldn’t mean more to me to be nominated. Now the goal is to win.

AM: Can you tell us a bit about the show for those who haven’t watched it and what you’re excited for?

AV: Windy City Rehab is in its 5th season. The new season is airing on September 24th. It’s a docu-series and it’s one of the first docu-series ever on HGTV where you truly follow my life and my design. There are no overly produced parts of my show. It’s very real. The good, the bad, and the ugly of my life and this business. The show looks at how I navigate successes and setbacks and it gives you glimpses into my personal life and how that marries with my professional life. There’s no smoke and mirrors in my show. What you see on Windy City Rehab is what I’m experiencing in my life. I am the same person you see on the show. I’m not an actress.

For me, it’s about showing people who I am, what I believe in, and how I stand up for myself and my clients. The result are beautiful spaces, but how we get there is the most interesting part.

AM: So you’re working on your own production company, Briefly Gorgeous Productions. Tell me about this and why you wanted to do this?

AV: I created Briefly Gorgeous Productions to help bring truly vulnerable reality TV to smart audiences. I have already created two successful shows but there are so many great stories to tell. Some of those stories will be in the home space but some will be in totally unrelated, but equally interesting, areas of life. I love to laugh, I love seeing real people doing real things, and I love watching lives evolve. There is comedy, tragedy, and triumph in every story. Briefly Gorgeous will make sure the stories are told with true integrity.

I knew that if I could do this for me, I could do this for others. Windy City Rehab has always connected with viewers because they see and feel the authenticity. I want to continue that with everything produced through Briefly Gorgeous productions. This is just the beginning.

AM: That’s really great to hear.

You’ve also worked with Habitat for Humanity and you’re a spokesperson for the Women Build Campaign. I’d really like to hear more about that.

AV: I’ve been doing it for 5 years now and for me, owning your first home, it’s one of the greatest days of anyone’s life – always and forever. Especially as a single woman. When I got my first home, I was the proudest that I ever felt – probably other than getting nominated for an Emmy!

AM: Ha – right!

AV: Anyone that is able to have a house through Habitat, has to put in their own sweat equity. I have the greatest team and they volunteer and come out to help. We work together and help the homeowner build her dream home. We empower her through hard work, empower her through just having fun, and we make sure that she has the support. I love that!

AM: That’s really fantastic.

Are there any upcoming projects that we should keep an eye out for as I know you are a very busy woman who is doing tons of things.

AV: Windy City Rehab season 5 is premiering Sept 24th! It’s 12 episodes and I believe this is our best season yet!

Scariest House in America with Retta premiers in October.

Ugliest House in America season 6 premieres this winter and I am going to be on a big show that will be announced very soon! 

I mean, I’m not stopping! It’s go time! It’s time to win that Emmy.

Read the latest issue of Athleisure Mag.

KEEPING IT CLEAN | KEEGAN MICHAEL-KEY

We had the pleasure of catching up with Keegan Michael-Key who is an actor who always leaves us in good spirits! His ability to make you laugh and think is something that we appreciate. We enjoyed talking with him about his work as a teacher, investing in children’s lives through learning, partnering with Lysol to promote clean environments in school and at home, and of course his work on one of our favorite shows Abbott Elementary and other projects we’re excited about!

ATHLEISURE MAG: We have been a fan of yours for a number of years and have loved your shows and of course most recently, Abbott Elementary. But you actually have teaching experience at Penn State and at Second City. Can you tell us more about this?

KEEGAN MICHAEL-KEY: Yes, I was a graduate student at Penn State and I taught Fundamental Acting, Non-Majors and I had a really fulfilling and fun time doing that. I had a great time with the students and I also interestingly learned a lot and it helped reinforce the training that I was getting.

When I was a performer at the Second City Theater, both in Detroit and also in Chicago, I spent a good deal of time teaching improv as well as communications techniques to people. And also in Detroit at the Mosaic Youth Theater of Detroit, I spent time going to classrooms and teaching children improv skills. That was also a very fulfilling experience too. So I have done a lot of teaching in my past and I really really loved it.   

AM: That is such a great story! When did you realize that you wanted to be an actor?

KMK: I realized that I wanted to be an actor probably when gosh, I would have been around 14 or 15 and that would put me in high school. I was encouraged by a family friend and my drama teacher in school was really hands on and very supportive. She really helped to pull me into that world! Once I was in it, I was in love!

AM: Why do you feel that hands on learning is so important and can you tell us about HERE For Healthy Schools?

KMK: Yeah, to answer the first question, I think that when kids have an opportunity to do things hands on and interactive, I really feel that the information that they are being given that the teachers desires for them to receive, really gets into their minds better and they can practically handle things and move through things. It’s more effective learning and that is kind of why I wanted to work with Lysol at the HERE for Healthy Schools Program this particular year. Because, what they are doing with the initiative this year, is that they are putting together the Lysol Minilabs Science Kits and the kits are going to contain educational materials that are designed to be hands-on so that the kids can learn about germ education, healthy habits, and how to keep the classroom environment as well as the general environment clean.

AM: Whether you have children that are going back to school, maybe you’re an aunt or uncle, or you just live alone solo, what are some healthy habits that we need to know about so that we’re not transferring germs and we’re reducing all the ick?

KMK: Ha – all the ick! You know, I think that the first thing across the board that everyone can do and that we can always teach children, is of course, washing our hands. Washing our hands after an activity, washing our hands after using the bathroom so that we’re not the germ spreaders if that makes any sense? We’re so mobile as humans, and then we’re the ones spreading the germs! So cutting that off at the pass if you will and then also, when you think about countertops, and desktops, and door handles which are things that we come into contact with every single day, and many times during the day, it’s just a wipe here or a spray there that can hopefully keep the germs down. Then we’re allowing ourselves to be in a cleaner environment!

AM: 100%!

Obviously, you have so many awesome things that are coming up obviously Season 4 of Abbott Elementary is slated to premiere on ABC on Oct 9th! Every time that we see you on the screen we just know that it’s going to be good. What can you tell us about – obviously not a lot – as we prepare for the next season?

KMK: Well, without giving away next season, you can stream Season 3 now of Abbott Elementary now which I am really happy for people as you can enjoy repeat viewings if you feel so inclined! I have a small arc on the show in the season where I play the Superintendent of Schools in Philadelphia which is where Janine, Quinta Brunson’s (A Black Lady Sketch Show, History of the World: Part II, Weird: The Al Yankovick Story) character works now and she feels encouraged to affect more change in the school system. You get to watch that story play out and really the big thing that you get to watch playout is this struggle between her love for everyone and the students at Abbott Elementary and then this more macro environment with the Superintendent and there is this struggle of being pulled between these two things. Can I do more good here? Should I go back to Abbott and be more of a boots on the ground? She’s trying to figure out what way can she be more effective for the students?

AM: We enjoyed watching the 3rd season and getting that layer.

What attracted you to want to be on this show? So many people love this show and so many actors and other people are trying to find ways to get into this show!

KMK: Oh yeah!

AM: What was it for you that made you want to do it?

KMK: First of all, I think that Quinta is a real amazing talent and I have known her for years and I have watched her grow as an artist and the pride I feel for her is overwhelming because what she has done is such an achievement! But also, within that, is the humanity of the show. I think that just the thematic subject matter of the show is about nurturing and investing in our future which is about children. It’s also this kind of intrinsic, American underdog story – an underfunded school district, how do we pull ourselves up by the boot straps and do what we have to do for the betterment of these children. So that is really heartwarming in a way it is very inviting because they are letting the world in and it is inspiring. That is why I wanted to be part of it. It’s also very funny!

AM: Oh it’s very funny!

KMK: So funny!

AM: Well you’re also in Transformers One and Dear Santa! That’s 2 amazing additional projects that are coming out! We’re sure that you’re excited about them and can you tell us about them?

KMK: Well, Transformers One will be coming out in September 20th and it’s a really exciting project to work on. The director is a gentleman by the name of Josh Cooley (Up, Inside Out, Soul), very talented animation director. He directed Toy Story 4 that I starred in with Jordan Peele (Get Out, Us, Nope). We played partners – we played a little stuffed duck and a little stuffed rabbit that were connected to each other and we had such a great time that Josh asked me to come on and play Bumblebee in Transformers One which really is an honor because he’s a very popular character in the Transformers universe!

Dear Santa is a holiday movie that stars Jack Black (Jumanji universe, Kung Fu Panda universe, The Super Mario Bros. Movie) and he is absolutely fantastic and I hope you go see it and everyone that you know goes to see it! It’s really fun and it has a lot of heart. It’s silly and zany and it’s going to be great!

AM: Do you have any other projects whether it’s TV, film, or just philanthropic that you would like for us to know about that we should keep an eye out for because you’re always doing great things! It’s great to see you in a number of commercials as well as you are a busy man!  

KMK: Ha ha yes I am praise God!

Well one thing in September that is coming up, I wrote a book with my partner at Elle Key (August, Fair Game, The Blackout), we wrote a book called The History of Sketch Comedy: A Journey Through the Art and Craft of Humor, and the audio version of that book is coming out then. So again, I know that it is early for the holiday season, but if people want to, they have the opportunity to download that or to send it as a gift and it was a real passion project for us and we’re really proud of the book. So there is also that! So that’s about it for right now if that’s not enough!

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THE BACHELORETTE S21. E5. | WHAT'S A GIRL TO DO?

PHOTO CREDIT | ABC The Bachelorette

This week, The Bachelorette reminds that drama never takes a rest! We remember from last week that Jenn Tran’s ex, Matt, has arrived and wants to be able to compete for her heart. The guys are excited to have blue skies for this cocktail party - not quite! Jesse Palmer connects with her to ask her how she is feeling with this addition and the fact that the men are not aware of what she is about to tell them when she joins them. She sits down and thanks them for a great week. She tells them that Matt came in from Auckland and wants to join in on the journey. She lets them know that not only is he there, but she will need to talk with him as well. The men are upset as they have so many questions - will he join the house, how strong are their connections, what does this mean? Devin announces that if Matt does join the group, he knows that his rose means something and he will leave. Grant tells him that he should trust the process.

After talking with Jenn, Matt walks into the room with the men and lets him know that he will not be staying because Jenn has moved on and sees her future with them. Once he leaves, Jenn tells the men the same thing and says that although she appreciated him saying that he loved her as she had never heard that, she was sending him on his way. The guys also didn’t get any time with her as she is heading straight to the ceremony.

Since there was a ceremony at the beginning of the show, she gave roses to Austin, Devin, Dylan, Grant, Jeremy, Jonathan, Marcus, Sam M., and Spencer. She sends John and Thomas home.

Jesse catches up again with Jenn acknowledging that the night before was a lot and he also asks what she feels she wants to see as she moves forward. The 9 guys are chatting with one another when a date card arrives and Jonathan receives a 1-on1. His date includes a helicopter ride and we know that he is uncomfortable with heights, but is willing to do it for his date. She had a helicopter date earlier this season, but this one is taking them to a vineyard. The play hide and seek, toss grapes in each other’s mouths and of course they sit in a hot tub.

They make their way to the dinner portion of the night and we know that they have cutesy vibes with one another, but we also know that she wants to know more so that she can be connected with him.

While Jonathan opens up with Jenn about past relationships and things that took place with his family, another date card arrives for the group, Devin, Sam, Marcus, Spencer, Jeremy, Dylan, and Austin. Grant is getting the 1-on-1 date.

Jenn encourages Jonathan to continue to be vulnerable and to open up and he gets the 1-on-1 date rose. They have a cute kiss in the rain as it if was on cue!

It seems like for the group date that the guys arrive to a farm and we know that it will get messy. When they arrive, Jenn lets them know she has a few friends who will be on the date - sheep and it’s quite a lot along with a shepheard dog. She introduces them to a couple who are the owners of the sheep farm and they are looking for the best farmer and the winner will get to have more time with The Bachelorette. The try to get sheep through a gate which was an epic fail, they shoveled poo, and cut dingleberries from the sheep. The farmers award Devin with best farmer’s award and Austin feels that he didn’t do anything and someone in the group of other guys deserved it as they didn’t shirk their work.

So, the group date after party begins and Spencer asks if Devin deserved having the best farmer of the date and he responds that it’s about taking initiative. Devin hopes that he will get a rose as he’s taking all the time he can to continue to connect with her. Jenn says she wants to continue the connections and why they are choosing one another. Austin airs his grievances during the confessional because he knows he has not had a 1-on-1 date with her.

Austin finally gets some time with Jenn and he lets her know that he is always going to be up front and honest with her. He tells her that he always feels like he is always playing catch up and that he feels that he can’t do that. He lets her know that he doesn’t think it is fair to her or himself to continue the journey. Jenn says she is surprised and doesn’t want to hear this, but she can accept where he is coming from. Austin decides to go home and she is now concerned that she may not be enough for others in this group. The producers ask if she has shared this with them and she says that if she does, she is concerned that they will see how worthless she is She’s not feeling good enough or worthy enough and she thinks that there is a possibility that she may end up being alone.

Dylan fills them in as he was Austin’s roommate and he knows that he hasn’t felt like he has connected in the same way. She lets the guys know that today was crazy and she is vulnerable with them by sharing that she doesn’t feel that she is not good enough. Sometimes she doesn’t feel amazing. It was sweet to hear the guys rally around her and let her know that she means a lot to them and it’s ok to feel the way she does and to know that they don’t see her that way. They tell her in a group setting and they also say it individually as well. She opts to not give out a rose because everyone stepped up to cheer her up and to be there for her.

Now we come to the last 1-on-1 date of the week which is with Grant. As Jenn arrives to the date, she is in a much better head space and is ready to explore her connection with him. Their date involves horseback riding and Grant is excited to spend this time with her. He even talks about how he is aware of the feelings that she went through yesterday and he wanted to check in. They navigate the trail and they talk about how she would love to own a farm as she loves animals and they arrive at the beach as they continue to ride. She knows that its important to have strong relationships and she knows the weight of this date. As it rains on the beach with their picnic, they are vulnerable with one another.

They continue their date into dinner. Grant realizes that she knows the surface stuff about him, but not other elements that make him unique and he knows he has to share that with her. He gets into his imperfections and talks about his family and how he had a hard upbringing and that his dad had an alcohol program and he felt that he was being lied to. Even as recently as him leaving for the show, he let him know that he was checking into rehab and now he has been able to connect with his father being 2 months sober and it’s a new him that he gets to learn. They connect on the fact that they didn’t have that father figure and what it meant to them. She gives him the 1-on-1 rose and appreciates how he was vulnerable as well as sharing sentiments that are similar in their backgrounds.

The men arrive for the cocktail party before the rose ceremony. With 2 men secure with their rose, the other 6 are feeling that the stakes are pretty high. Grant shares that he thinks he is falling in love with Jenn. The guys uncomfortably absorb his announcement. Time is always a tough character in this scenario and all of them feel nervous. She arrives and says that they look great and she is happy to see them. She appreciates how they have shown up for her and it meant a lot to her. Because she saw how they supported her, she doesn’t feel the need to have a cocktail party and will see them at the ceremony.

JENN GAVE ROSES TO | Devin, Grant, Jeremy, Jonathan, Marcus, Sam, and Spencer.

JENN DIDN’T GIVE ROSES TO | Austin, Dylan, John M., and Thomas N.

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

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

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

---

WHO WE PREDICT WILL GO TO HOMETOWNS

DEVIN

GRANT

MARCUS

SAM M.

PHOTO CREDIT | The Bachelor Contestants/Ricky Middlesworth

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THE BACHELORETTE CONTESTANTS

AARON

AUSTIN

BRENDAN

BRETT

BRIAN

DAKOTA

DEVIN

DYLAN

GRANT

HAKEEM

JAHAAN

JEREMY

JOHN M.

JONATHAN J.

KEVIN

MARCUS

MARVIN

MATT

MOZE

RICKY

SAM M.

SAM N.

SPENCER

THOMAS

TOMAS

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THE ROOT OF IT | MARIA CAMILA GIRALDO

We always enjoy watching our favorite shows and the actors that portray characters that are memorable. In addition to enjoying their creative pursuits, it's always interesting to see when their life experiences initiate an entrepreneurial endeavour based on issues that they may have come across.

We sat down with Maria Camila Giraldo who we recently enjoyed watching her in Netflix's Griselda. We wanted to know more about how she came to acting, how she approaches her characters, how she came to this series and to find out about her wellness brand, Fungiments. Co-founded by her and her fiance, Cole Garson they set out to create this brand that uses mushrooms and adaptogens.

ATHLEISURE MAG: What was the first film or TV show that made you realize the power of acting?

MARIA CAMILA GIRALDO: The first film that made me realize the power of acting was V for Vendetta. The performances were so compelling and intense that they truly demonstrated how acting can convey deep emotions and complex ideas, leaving a lasting impact on the audience.

AM: When did you realize that you wanted to be an actor?

MCG: I think I was born an actor. Ever since I was a baby, I would grab the camera and perform different characters. As I grew older, I started producing my own short films and homemade talk shows. This passion for performance and storytelling has always been a part of me.

AM: How do you approach playing your characters as we know everyone has their own process.

MCG: My approach to playing characters depends on the character and the story. Currently, I'm very influenced by Ivana Chubbuck's technique. It's an amazing method that helps me connect my own reality with the character's reality, allowing for a more authentic and powerful performance.

AM: We enjoyed watching Netflix's Griselda - how did you become attached to the project and what drew you to this series?

MCG: I started auditioning for Griselda in October 2021. It was a lengthy process. Initially, I was considered too young for the original role I auditioned for, but they eventually called me in for a different role. I didn't hear back until the end of November 2021 – that’s when I received the exciting news that I had to move to LA for the project. I had always wanted to be in LA, having visited on and off for the past three years, so it was a perfect opportunity for me.

AM: The storyline and telling Griselda's story was amazing. On your IG, you shared that you had a vision board where you noted that you would be on a top show and Sofia Vergara (Modern Family, Chef, This is Me ... Now: A Love Story) was also on there and of course we saw that come to pass this year! What was your biggest takeaway from doing this show?

MCG: My biggest takeaway from doing this show is the importance of dreaming big, working hard, and preparing for the opportunities you want. If you do, the moment you’ve been waiting for will eventually show up. Having a vision board was a constant reminder of my goals, and seeing it come to fruition was incredibly rewarding.

AM: You're going to be in a film with Al Pacino (The Godfather, The Irishman, Serpico), is there anything that you can tell us about this?

MCG: Initially, I was hesitant because I didn't like horror movies. However, my managers insisted I take a look at the project. When I did, I realized it was more than just a horror film—it was a psychological thriller that delved into mental health, a topic very close to my heart. After my concussion and personal struggles with mental health, I felt deeply connected to the story and its significance.

AM: You were recently at the Cannes Film Festival and we loved seeing your look on the red carpet. What was it like attending this festival and were you there promoting a film?

MCG: Attending the Cannes Film Festival was a dream come true. We were there for private screenings of The Ritual (Editors Note: This is her upcoming film with Al Pacino). The experience was incredible - the magnitude of the event, the glamour, and the sheer amount of talent present was amazing. It was an honor to be part of such a prestigious event and to witness the global celebration of cinema.

AM: As someone who has been playing a number of roles, you are also an entrepreneur in the wellness space! What led to your wellness journey to becoming an entrepreneurial aha moment?

MCG: When I went through a concussion, I realized that there weren't many natural alternatives for managing my anxiety or improving my focus and concentration that didn't involve medications, and I didn't want to go that route. So, I tried everything and looked everywhere. I found a lot of relief in mushroom supplements and adaptogens. After searching through pharmacies and supermarkets and not finding anything similar, I saw a big opportunity to create a fun brand that people can connect to. That's what led me to create Fungiments and become an entrepreneur.

AM: Tell us about Fungiments and its use of mushrooms and adaptogens.

MCG: Fungiments uses mushrooms as the hero ingredient, blending them with other adaptogens to enhance their targeted effects. This approach allows us to create products that truly work, unlike other mushroom supplement brands that often include mushrooms in low milligrams, leaving you unsure if they are effective. Our formulations ensure that each product delivers tangible benefits for your specific needs.

AM: Tell us about your assortment and although you just launched, do you have plans on additional items to add to your offerings?

MCG: Our body is like an ecosystem, and our goal at Fungiments is to create products that support each system within it. For example, we have Super Prune gummies which support digestion with Turkey Tail mushrooms along with other functional ingredients. Super Bouncy is for those lacking energy and focus, made with Cordyceps, ginseng and more. We recognize that we are holistic beings, and one issue, like lack of energy, can often be connected to another, such as poor sleep. Although we just launched, we already have plans to expand our offerings to cover a wide range of needs, including sleep, energy, and overall wellness, ensuring that every aspect of your health is supported.

AM: When you're not working on your next project or working on Fungiments, how do you take time for yourself?

MCG: When I'm not working on my next project or Fungiments, I take time for myself by exercising. I have chronic pain, so movement helps to alleviate my symptoms and keep me feeling better. Additionally, working out has a positive impact on my mental health, and I also focus on skincare to take care of myself both physically and emotionally.

IG @maria.giraldo

PHOTOS COURTESY | Fungiment

Read the JUN ISSUE #102 of Athleisure Mag and see THE ROOT OF IT | Maria Camila Giraldo in mag.

THE LONG AND THE SHORT OF IT | JULIAN WORKS

For the past 4 seasons, we have enjoyed 9-1-1: Lonestar which allows us to follow the work and lives of first responders that are in Austin Texas! With an engaging ensemble cast, we took some time to talk with Julian Works who plays Mateo Chavez. We've watched as he's grown with his fellow fireman, become involved in a relationship, and really coming into his own!

We wanted to know more about how he got into the industry, his passion for storytelling, being in 9-1-1, how one trains for this role, his movie The Long Game, and more!

ATHLEISURE MAG: What was the show or movie that made you fall in love with storytelling?

JULIAN WORKS: I’ve been a movie buff since I was really young and loved so many classic films like Rear Window, La Dolce Vita, Rebel Without A Cause, East of Eden, On The Waterfront, A Streetcar Named Desire, Rocky, Dog Day Afternoon, The Godfather, Taxi Driver, and Midnight Express. They definitely lit a spark in me, and after hosting a YouTube Sports channel called Mun2 with my uncle as a teenager, I decided to audition for a rendition of The Odd Couple at my high school. I ended up booking the lead role of ‘Oscar Madison’ and the rest is history!

AM: Prior to you coming to 9-1-1: Lone Star, I first remember seeing you on The Affair. What is your creative process in approaching the characters that you have played?

JW: I do extensive research for any role that I play. In the case of The Affair, I came into the recurring role of ‘Angel’ after the show had been airing for 3 seasons, so I took it upon myself to binge-watch as many episodes as possible before the audition so that I could grasp the tone and the rhythm of the show. In the case of 9-1-1: Lone Star, on the other hand, I had the privilege of developing the character from its inception and the writers have molded the character around what I’ve brought to the table over the past 4 seasons. For The Long Game, I first read the novel by the great Humberto G. Garcia, then researched what it may have been like to be a Mexican American in 1950’s Del Río, Texas and of course brushed up on everything golf-related (including playing the game quite a bit before we began filming). Doing a deep dive into script and role analysis is also a part of my process. It always helps when you have a great director like Julio Quintana (Blue Miracle, The Vessel, Disgraced) or television showrunners like Tim Minear (9-1-1, Ratched, American Horror Story) and Rashad Raisani (Burn Notice, 9-1-1, 9-1-1: Lone Star) at the helm who guide you and put all of the pieces of the story together.

AM: What drew you to 9-1-1 Lone Star?

JW: Producers Ryan Murphy (Glee, Pose, American Horror Story), Brad Falchuk (Nip/Tuck, Scream Queens, The Politician), and Tim Minear. As soon as we saw their names attached to the series, my team and I knew we had to do everything in our power for me to work with them. It has been one of the most rewarding work experiences of my life.

AM: What is the training like to be on this show in terms of wearing the gear and being able to be in the mindset of a firefighter?

JW: It definitely takes some getting used to and ample training time. The gear is super heavy, so you have to be physically fit to handle the long hours with bulky clothing and able to handle sizable equipment, sometimes in hot weather. We’ve gone through extensive training with real firefighters and incredible consultants with our production team to make sure we honor the real firefighting heroes who risk their lives every day for us.

AM: Tell me about how you came to the 9-1-1 Universe as you actually had a few episodes in the flagship and how did that then bring you to 9-1-1: Lonestar?

JW: I booked a memorable Guest Star role opposite the legendary Angela Bassett (Waiting to Exhale, American Horror Story, Black Panther universe) on the flagship show, 9-1-1. A year later, when 9-1-1: Lone Star was casting, I read for ‘Mateo Chavez’ late in their casting process, fresh off of filming a TV show in Canada. Luckily, much of the creative team and the producers were the same on both shows, and they thought I’d be a great addition to the cast. I thank my lucky stars for that, since playing ‘Mateo’ has been one of the greatest experiences of my life until now.

AM: You also get to play a twin every now and then - what do you love about Marvin?

JW: I only played ‘Marvin’ once on the original 9-1-1 show. I love that he’s a very genuine and charismatic person who just lacks direction in life. To his benefit, Angela Bassett’s character, ‘Athena,’ gives him the tough love that he needs. She is the reason he reflects on his life and looks to change for the better at the end of the episode.

AM: For those that need a refresher where do we end with Mateo from last season and what can you tell us about where we pick him up again for next season?

JW: Without giving away too much, let’s just say that he and Nancy (Brianna Baker) are a part of the fifth season’s storyline. Stay tuned for new and big climate events, explosions, amazing rescues, and the evolution of old and new relationships! Like all previous seasons, ‘Mateo’ will have a breakout episode where new and exciting things will be revealed!

AM: For fans of the show, what are the takeaways that you want viewers to feel about Mateo's arc or the show in general?

JW: I love ‘Mateo’s’ humor and optimism, even when faced with great adversity or personal challenges. He keeps getting back up and trying again, until he achieves his goal and I’d like viewers to really take that positive attitude and indefatigable outlook with them, into their own lives.

AM: You are in The Long Game which hit theaters last month and debuted at SXSW last year where the film earned the SXSW Narrative Spotlight Audience Award. What drew you to this movie?

JW: The incredible novel, Mustang Miracle, by Humberto G. Garcia, the script, and our indomitable director Julio Quintana. I almost worked with Julio before on another movie right as I was offered 9-1-1: Lone Star, and after watching that film, I knew I had to work with him. The stars aligned and I had an incredible experience working with him and the entire cast and production team that made the film possible.

AM: For those who have not seen this movie. Tell me about it and who do you play?

JW: I play ‘Joe Trevino,’ a young Mexican-American caddie who ends becoming the San Felipe High School’s most valuable golfer and a champion, along with his team, for the Texas State Championship in 1957. The film is based on a true story and tells the story of the racism and prejudice of our country’s past, but also the hope, evolution, and inspiration that everyday Americans have demonstrated to make America a better home for us all. Simply put, it’s a story about the triumph of the human spirit over adversity and illustrates the lesson for people of any background that you can do anything if you believe in yourself, work hard, and have a strong team around you to reach your goals.

AM: You have an incredible cast that's also in this film from Jay Hernandez (Suicide Squad, Magnum P.I., Last Resort), Dennis Quaid (Lawmen: Bass Reeves, Full Circle, The Day After Tomorrow), and Cheech Marin (Shotgun Wedding, Machete, Nash Bridges). Canelo Alvarez is an Executive Producer of the movie. What did you enjoy about being in this film?

JW: Besides having the privilege and the honor to embody the late ‘Joe Trevino’ and work with our talented director, cast, and production team, I loved the preparation, both physically and mentally. I also loved our filming locations, from Colombia to Texas, and learning from so many wonderfully talented people. Of course, having Canelo Alvarez executive produce our film was phenomenal, and meeting him at his most recent fight in Las Vegas was surreal.

AM: When you're not on set or when you're preparing for your next role, what are 3 workouts that you do to stay in shape?

JW: I love to box, train in mixed martial arts, and go on long-distance jogs and hikes.

AM: How do you take time for yourself?

JW: Music is an important outlet for me. Listening to it and creating. I love a variety of music, from Nipsey Hussle, Drake, and Dr. Dre, to Elvis, The Bee Gees, and Michael Jackson, and compose lyrics for future songs that I’m looking to record.

AM: Are there and upcoming projects that you can share?

JW: I am currently filming the 5th season of 9-1-1: Lone Star and the entire cast is very excited to be back on set! We look forward to sharing the continuation of our storylines and our characters’ journeys with fans this Fall. Stay tuned!

IG @julesworks

PHOTOGRAPHY CREDITS | Dylan

Read the JUN ISSUE #102 of Athleisure Mag and see THE LONG AND THE SHORT OF IT | Julian Works in mag.