Read the DEC ISSUE #96 of Athleisure Mag and see THE PICK ME UP in mag.
Read the DEC ISSUE #96 of Athleisure Mag and see #TRIBEGOALS in mag.
We released our VOT3D IO 2023 & Awards For Brand Demonstration and Excellence where Co-Founders Paul Farkas, Co-Founder/Publisher and Artistic Director of Athleisure Media and co-executive producer of Athleisure Studio our podcast network and co-host Kimmie Smith, Co-Founder/Creative and Style Director of Athleisure Media and the co-executive producer and host of a number of shows on Athleisure Studio shared our thoughts on 2023 as they talked about this year’s current events, pop culture, beauty, fitness, sports, travel, politics, wellness, style and luxury lifestyle. They also provided the insights into major stories and what we can expect to continue to be topics of interest as we navigate 2024.
You can also watch this video on our YouTube channel as well.
In this month’s issue, our front and back cover story with actor and professional wrestler, Adam Copeland! He talks about acting in Syfy's Haven, History Channel's Vikings, and most recently Disney+'s Percy Jackson and The Olympians - which is streaming right now with episodes dropping weekly. We also talk about his phenomenal career wrestling in the WWE under the name Edge as well as currently wrestling at AEW under his own name. We talk about how he navigates these industries, his passion for them, and more!
This month, we caught up with actor, entrepreneur, and social justice advocate La La Anthony Showtime's The Chi and STARZ's BMF to talk about how she stays healthy during the holiday season, what she's gifting, and her upcoming projects.
We also talked with one of our faves, JoAnna Garica Swisher of Netflix's Sweet Magnolias to talk about how she navigates the holiday season, traditions, and her upcoming projects.
As we navigate the remainder of this year, we're looking ahead as is NWSL's Angel City FC and US Womens National Team's Christen Press! She talks about how she got into soccer, her passion for the game, the importance of advocacy and how she has taken this from her platform to her company, RE--INC.
We love a great night out which includes an amazing meal as well as cocktails. We sat down with Lynnette Marrero, Partner/Chief Mixologist at Delola and Head of Education for Bar Convent Brooklyn. She walks us through those early days of craft cocktails in NYC in the early 2000's from beverages, bartenders, and the fusion between food and spirits! She also talks about her role at Delola, Jennifer Lopez's Ready-To-Drink Better-For You brand that is perfect to enjoy year around and with a number of dishes. She also talks about her brand Speed Rack as well as her upcoming projects!
This month, we enjoyed chatting with Andrea Salazar, Creative Dir. of SETA a brand that empowers women through an edgy assortment that reflects her lifestyle whether she leans towards dressing boho, ethereal, minimalist, etc. She talks about her fashion background, where she trained, and shares looks with us that we can wear however we plan on celebrating NYE. We also talk about her being a finalist on S2 Prime Video's Making the Cut and what that experience was like with Heidi Klum and Tim Gunn. This interview is from our THE 9LIST® Holiday Virtual Event that took place this month where you can see the event as well as the looks presented, here.
Another interview in this month's issue is with SVP Brand, and Creative Liz Money of BÉIS, an on the go travel brand by Shay Mitchell. We talk about Liz's fashion backgound, the ethos of this brand, essential pieces, upcoming projects/collaborations, and even events that they did this year that they are proud of! This virtual event was part of our Athleisure Mag Summit® Series so you can see the conversation here and we also have an ATHLEISURE MAG SUMMIT® X BÉIS giveaway of must-haves BEIS pieces for 1 lucky winner that we are running now through Jan 3rd.
This month's The Art of the Snack comes from Tsubame here in NY which take Omakase to another level with this culinary experience. This month's Athleisure List comes from Bijoux Lounge in NoLita which is a decadent way to end the night or to start your weekend! We also have Cucina 8 ½ which is known for their table side Caesar salads, Italian dishes, and a lovely ambiance to enjoy a great meal.
This month’s 9PLAYLIST comes from Synth Pop Duo Icona Pop. Our 9DRIP comes from our cover, Adam Copeland as well as the founder of Lagree Fitness, Sebastien Lagree. Our 9LIST STORI3S comes from MAX Rap Sh!t Daniel Augustin and JoAnna Garcia Swisher. Our 63MIX ROUTIN3S comes from La La Anthony and Icona Pop. This month's THE 9LIST 9CH3FS and THE 9LIST 9B-L-D comes from NY brunch institution Chef Ron Silver of Bubby's, Food Network's Alex vs America Chef Eric Adjepong, and Hav and Mar's (Chef Marcus Samuelsson's latest restaurant) Chef Friyal Abdul! This month and in our upcoming JAN ISSUE #97, we have our NEW YEAR, N3W YOU feature. This month you'll hear from Adam Copeland, Dominic "The Surgeon" Ciambrone (NOV ISSUE #95 cover), Daniel Augustin, Andrea Salazar, Grammy Award Winning Producer/Songwriter Toby Gad, La La Anthony, and Icona Pop.
Read the DEC ISSUE #96.
If you've been collecting sneakers and have a passion for some of your favorite Nike, Gucci, Lanvin's etc that are deconstructed, reconstructed and customized with premium and exotic skins, Dominic Ciambrone, a.k.a. The Surgeon is the legendary creative mind that is at the forefront of taking our sneaker game to the next level! His work has been coveted and collected by Justin Bieber, LeBron James, Odell Beckham Jr, DJ Khaled, Canelo, and more. In addition he has worked with Bentley Motors, NBA, NFL, Miami Heat, Golden State Warriors, Heineken, Reese's, Glenmorangie, 7-11, and a number of other brands. We wanted to find out how he got into and pioneered this space, what his work entails, his projects, working with luxury brands, SRGN Studios, SRGN Academy, his passion for sports, The League, and additional projects that he is working on.
ATHLEISURE MAG: When did you realize that you wanted to be a shoemaker?
DOMINIC CIAMBRONE: When did I realize that I wanted to be a shoemaker? I would say when I was 19 years old. From the age of 15/16, I was painting shoes, but I realized that to actually be a shoemaker, I needed to take my craft a step further. That realization came I think when I met one of my mentors, Michael Anthony who hand makes western boots.
AM: What was that journey like to be able to be self-taught and learning all of those elements?
DC: It was a long road! I started with painting shoes and then I learned how to sew on top of them – I learned sewing in high school. Then I met my mentor who made western boots so I got to watch him make boots and then I realized that that’s what I wanted to do with sneakers. I wanted to make the highest end sneakers in the world and it took many years working for free and just doing stuff to learn about machines and tools. It was a lot of missteps and a lot of learning. I did paint, I did shoe repair, fixed purses and bags. I mean, I did all kinds of things just so that I could learn.
AM: Back in 2011/2012, I had a collaboration with Sebago and I had a line of their boat shoes and we sold it on HSN, Bloomingdale's and a few select retailers and I was so excited. But my background at that time was in apparel and jewelry as opposed to shoes. I remember reading an article about you and your work when I was on my flight heading to the factory in the Dominican Republic. After reading it, I felt that in hearing your story, how you approached your work etc, that if I could take that same approach and focus on the materials and create another way to highlight this style of shoe much as you do with sneakers that I could do it! So reading about you and just thinking about it in a different way saved me from freaking out on my flight I just wanted to say thank you for that!
DC: That’s awesome!
AM: Why do you call yourself The Surgeon?
DC: I was 18 years old in a hotel in NYC for the first time trying to figure out what to call myself, the brand, and what I was doing. I just wrote down a bunch of things and I was just trying to figure out what do I do to sneakers? What do I do to the shoes? I was like, “surgery,” and that’s where it got birthed – The Surgeon. Now that we're expanding the business, we've taken "Shoe" out of the name and go by SURGEON. Our creativity isn't limited to sneakers and you're going to see that more and more next year.
AM: When you’re customizing shoes, where do you start in that creative process when you’re making sneakers?
DC: I mean it changes. I don’t have one set process. For me, I have always been able to build something to life straight from an idea. I love sourcing materials, I’m really big into materials, I think that I’m mostly a materials person. I mostly just love it so much. You can turn something into a product and that’s a beautiful thing.
AM: I’m also a fashion stylist and an accessory expert, so I’m constantly talking about and believe that when someone is purchasing a handbag, jewelry, or shoes, you’re buying what the designer intended in making that item as well as what the wearer puts into it after wearing it and wanting it. Ultimately, that connection between the person who purchased it and the product creates its own history and meaning. When people are buying your shoes, what are they getting?
DC: I mean, ha – they get a piece of my soul. They get a piece of something that’s my entire life and they get a piece of shoemaking history that dates back all the way to Ancient Egypt! I mean, there’s those hieroglyphics on the wall that I looked at recently and some of the oldest ones have people making shoes!
AM: You have been worn and collected by so many people from LeBron James, Justin Bieber, Drake and more. What’s it like when you’re collaborating with them on specific ideas and incorporating your concepts together?
DC: Sometimes they give me the full range to do what I want and then there’s some that have a couple of ideas and I help bring their ideas to life where they will give a little bit of direction and I’m able to go back and forth. I think that a true collaboration is a very beautiful thing. You have 2 energies that are coming together to create something magical.
AM: You’ve also worked with so many brands whether it’s Gucci or Lanvin or Nike or Reese’s, what does it feel like to be able to work with these types of brands and to bring your creativity and artistry into what their lexicon is?
DC: I mean, it’s a beautiful thing. At the end of the day, I just – a friend of mine told me that I’m making commercial cool right? So a lot of the stuff that I get to do is that I get to make cool commercials and I didn’t look at it that way. People just reached out to me for my craft and my artistry and what I have been able to build from my Instagram to just a true foundation where I hold a high value on my quality and my artisanal work with the team so it’s really cool to be able to be part of it.
AM: You’re SURGEON X Bentley partnership last year where you had the limited edition shoes as well as Surgeon-ifying their car, what did it mean to you to work with this brand and to create in this way?
DC: Bentley is one of, if not the most, prestigious car company in the world. So, to be able to fly to Crewe, England and sit with the makers there and to see how they produced one of the highest quality cars in the world was a very humbling experience and it was so amazing to be able to do that because that car is the top of the top!
AM: Oh yeah!
The materials that you use – the leathers, the exotics are amazing. Have you also used sustainable materials like banana leathers, mycelium and things like that?
DC: Oh yeah, I’ve been using different ideas of sustainability whether it’s even recycled materials. I actually flew to Brazil, developed an Elephant Ear plant material and we have used that on shoes and right now, I have a shoe that is launching that the sole is dyed with turmeric, the swoosh is mushroom, pineapple leather, grape leaf leather – I mean, it’s a really cool shoe.
AM: What has been your favorite project that you have worked on?
DC: I don’t really have favorites …
AM: You’re like me – I don’t have favorites, but there are a lot of things that I vibe with!
DC: I think it’s myself – really working on myself is beauty and I never looked at it that way until recently. So to be able to work on myself and to be able to translate that to my children, the work will speak for itself. myself is beauty and I never looked at it that way until recently. So to be able to work on myself and to be able to translate that to my children, the work will speak for itself.
AM: When you started, this industry and the market didn’t really exist in this way and you definitely have left a mark on it. Where do you see the industry in the next 15/20 years?
DC: That’s a great question. I don’t know. I don’t think like that because shoes and the custom industry was something that I think that I really helped pioneer and now for me, it’s way bigger than that. I’m working on architecture, interiors, car design, and so many other things. So just for custom shoes as an industry, I think that more people will respect the process more. I think that some will try it and most won’t like it because it’s a lot of work. I do think that a lot of things will be going to automation and easy to do things.
AM: Tell me about SRGN Academy which you have in LA, Las Vegas and at the Seaport here in NY.
DC: The SRGN Academy was started 8 or 9 years ago now. Growing up, I didn’t have a class or a school that I wanted to go to so I wanted to offer a trade school that you learn how to make a pair of shoes from scratch and at the same time, it’s not just about the shoes. It’s about going through something for yourself and doing something positive for yourself.
AM: Then there’s SRGN Studios, why did you want to launch this and what does it entail?
DC: SRGN Studios and even SURGEON Worldwide, is just a company that I have been able to build. The studio is like my fantasy factory where we have sports and all things under one roof. Not until you’re able to come into the studio do you really get a feel for it. You can only see so much through social media and online. So it's just a way for people to be able to have fun and live life. Life’s too short. I wanted to create a safe and fun place for people.
AM: Tell me about The League.
DC: The League started out of – well my business partner Dallas Imbimbo, he plays basketball and I play soccer. So once we got into our newer space, we just started playing pickup games and then we were like, “oh, let’s do more.” So we turned it into a league and it’s been very competitive, and fun, and a great outlet for me to not just be creative – but athletic and to compete in a healthy way.
AM: It seems like you have a full schedule. Will you ever have versions where you go to other cities like here in NY or in Miami.
DC: Yeah, we’re working on it.
AM: A few minutes ago, you were talking about how your passion extends beyond just shoes as you’re working in architecture, interiors, and cars. Will you have a clothing line, will we ever see a hotel that you do?
DC: Yeah exactly! I’m working on all of those things. I think that the hotel is definitely something that I love. I’m passionate about traveling and experience is something that is very meaningful to me so a hotel is definitely ideating.
AM: Here at Athleisure Mag, we love talking about food, it’s a great love that we’re constantly covering. You have the Canevari’s Ravioli Factory & Delicatessen – tell us more about this.
DC: My dad took over this deli 12-15 years ago and growing up my whole life, my dad was a chef. My mom cooked and my dad, when I was going into my freshman year of high school, they opened a restaurant and I got to see them live out their passions by just opening up a restaurant. At the time, I took it for granted and I didn’t understand it. I thought that it was normal and it was just my normal. Now that they have the deli, I have helped them remodel it, help brand it, and to get the right eyeballs on it to continue to grow it. It’s helped my dad and I to become closer.
“They get a piece of my soul. They get a piece of something that’s my entire life and they get a piece of shoemaking history that dates back all the way to Ancient Egypt! I mean, there’s those hieroglyphics on the wall that I looked at recently and some of the oldest ones have people making shoes!”
AM: What do you do in terms of working out as we like to know. So what are 3 workouts that you do that we should consider to add into our routines?
DC: Play soccer! Play soccer! It’s such a good workout. I mean and then, steam room, sauna, and I also meditate which is a workout for the mind to relax and physical therapy. I think a lot of people don’t realize how important physical therapy is. We wait until we’re hurt or we need to recover to get to it. But it’s like, if you can be preventative, then you’ll always be good. Mobility workouts are great. It’s less about weight and going crazy, it’s about the body and being really kind to your body and figuring out how to open it up so that you can have it for the longevity of your life.
AM: Totally agree. I turned 40 a few years ago and prior to that I wasn’t as focused on recovering the body post workout and mobility. When I started adding it in, I wondered why I had never done that because your body needs it and you can feel it over time.
When you’re not working, how do you take time for yourself?
DC: How do I take time for myself? I have a life coach that I work with every week. You know, I would say that playing soccer is time for myself even though it is in the studio. It’s really the only time that I ever shut off unless I’m in a meditation or workout. Hiking, traveling, and then working on myself for my children.
AM: Are there any upcoming projects that you would like to share?
DC: Ha! I’d have to ask my team! I can’t even keep up. We’re moving into the new studio, another 20,000 sq ft. We have a collaboration with Allen Iverson that launches next month. I mean, there are so many, I can’t even keep up anymore.
AM: You have so many projects going on and dropping. When a project comes to your attention, how do you decide if that is something that you want to add to your schedule?
DC: We have built such a great team to help manage this stuff so that we can continue to grow and that for me as a creative, I can continue to explore new things. So, it just depends. There are so many great things that we’re working on and a lot of the things that I’m working on is the stuff for the future.
AM: You’re also an advocate and you speak about the importance of mental health which is something we believe in. Why is it so important to you and what do you feel is the connection between mental health and physical health?
DC: As a kid, I went through a lot of mental health challenges, and I don’t think that I knew of it that way. At 24, I ended up jumping out of a window when I was making shoes for Justin Bieber, and I was diagnosed bipolar and I didn’t really know what that meant. Then when I started doing more self-research and figuring more things out, it’s so important – mental health and physical health are one in the same and you need to do both. When you take care of your physical health, your mental health will be better. It’s just true in the same and so it’s very important to physically take care of yourself for your mental purposes and with mindful workouts which is meditation, positive self-talk, it's mindfulness and so many things. And yeah, there’s so many people with how the world is going where people are pushing you know, different types of medicines. There’s something so much more easier about being able to get up and going for a walk, being in the sun, and taking care of your mind, body, and soul.
AM: I heard you like to rap in the office!
DC: HAHA I like to make people laugh! Growing up, my dad always rhymed, more like Dr. Seuss than a rapper, but I do it for myself and also to help people around to laugh. My kids pick it up to and it’s so funny because if I try to start rhyming and rapping, my daughter’s like, “dad, stop!”
AM: I could see you dropping a mix tape!
DC: I mean, I’m working on music more for exploring it. It’s less about rapping and more about just creating!
IG @ciambrone
PHOTO CREDITS | FRONT/BACK COVER, PG 20 + 9DRIP 42-45 Bryam Heredia/SRGN Studios + Grooming/Stefanie Guerra | PG 16-19, 22-41 SRGN Studios |
Read the NOV ISSUE #95 of Athleisure Mag and see THE ARTISAN | Dominic Ciambrone “The Surgeon” in mag.
This month, one of our favorite shows came back for its second season, HBO's Rap Sh!t which follows the journey of Shawna (Aida Osman) and Mia (KaMillion) as they navigate the music industry. Their relationship and journey is loosely based on City Girls. We learn about the music scene in South Florida, the Haitian community and what they do in order to survive along their ride to the top! One of the main characters, Maurice is played by Daniel Augustin who we have enjoyed in ABC's Grey's Anatomy and Hulu's How I Met Your Father! We wanted to find out more about this entertainer, how he approaches his craft, and what we can expect from this season of Rap Sh!t.
ATHLEISURE MAG: It’s so good to sit down with you as I have been a fan of your work and I love your character Maurice in Rap Sh!t and of course, the show is amazing! So I’m excited to talk with you!
DANIEL AUGUSTIN: Thank you so much! Thank you so much for saying that! It’s very exciting to hear and I’m excited to talk to you guys too!
AM: It’s clear that you’re definitely an entertainer. You’re an actor, director, producer, and a musician. When did you realize that you wanted to be in this industry?
DA: I think that I realized that I wanted to be in this industry before I knew how to be. That was around the time when I was watching Hannah Montana.
AM: Oh!
DA: The TV show, yeah! I didn’t know how to be an actor at that time because all I could do was the community acting in South Florida. South Florida didn’t have anywhere near the industry. I think in South Florida there were some Nickelodeon shows, but nothing along the lines of what I was seeing on Hannah Montana. I remember Hannah Montana’s (Miley Cyrus) brother on the show whose name was Jackson (Jason Earles) - I remember hearing he was 28/29/30 and he was playing her high school brother. I remember thinking how many opportunities must come from being able to portray characters at different ages. I just remember watching that show and that it sparked my imagination as to what’s possible and to no longer seeing what I see on TV as solely impossible.
AM: Right.
DA: I mean, she was even doing a bunch of stuff like being dressed up and nobody knowing that it’s her and all she’s doing is just wearing a different wig! That show did a lot for me and I think that at the time that that came out, I was probably 14/15 and that’s when I felt that I wanted to do it. Before that, watching people like Martin Lawrence (Martin, Boomerang, Bad Boys franchise), Jamie Foxx (Ray, White House Down, The Amazing Spider Man 2), Marlon Wayans (Scary Movie franchise, Respect, Air), and Will Smith (Men in Black franchise, Suicide Squad, King Richard) in their sitcoms that they had at the time – those guys raised me essentially and I think that that’s where I found my sense of charisma and playfulness with people. But I don’t think that it was until I saw the Hannah Montana show that I started to think that anything could kind of be possible. This guy is 29 years old and he’s playing someone in high school! That’s when I started to think about how I could go about doing this.
AM: That’s really cool and it’s interesting to see where inspiration can come from.
Earlier this month, you released Movie. Why did you want to take on this project?
DA: Movie means a lot to me because I have not been releasing music in years. I started releasing music when I was maybe 10 years old. So I think I stopped around 2018 as I had made a very hard pivot towards film and TV so I have not been recording, I have not been writing, and I hadn’t really been finding my way to sonics in the way that I would as a recording artist. I was very excited about doing this because when the SAG strike happened, I wasn’t nervous about anything, but I thought about how much control of my career that I don’t necessarily have per se. I don’t want to feel like I don’t have control of my life. So I started to pivot and focus on writing again and I started to focus first on screenwriting. I wrote a pilot, I wrote about my old high school football coach and I’m writing a feature film with my wife, Sh’Kia Augustin that we’re collaborating on. But there was still something that I didn’t feel like I was activated in a very theatrical way and in a way that moves through my body. So, I started to team up with the guys – a majority of those that I did when I was young. So I started in a Christian rap group called Mav-7 and I started reaching out to those guys that were in that group. Alvin Lewis is the main one who is servicing as all forms of A&R, helping me find music/songs and people to work with. Steven Guy, Channel Aria Sound, that’s just 3 names off the top and these guys were helping me craft my sound again. They were helping me craft stories and they were helping me see myself in an entertaining way that amused me and in a way that I felt would be entertaining to others and that I would want to be behind it.
I think that the strike had a lot to do with it and it offered me a lot of time to actually find another form or way to express myself.
AM: You also released Kinfolk: The Series which is 6 episodes and is also your passion project. It was also recognized and selected in Tribeca’s 2022 Creator Market, what led to that coming about?
DA: Kinfolk is another form of taking control of my career. I didn’t film it and you know work on it just to take control of my career. I started as a production assistant and I learned so many skills as a production assistant. I think I started in 2012 working at this small production company called As Seen On TV. They do these smaller commercials for products that you’ll see in Walgreens and Walmart. The commercials will go on late at night, but this gentleman, Laszlo Rain, he would do such an amazing job at making sets to make it look like it was a much bigger professional production. I was always enamored at that and I was always enamored at the magic behind what it took to make it look good. As an actor, I see the part that I play, but there are so many parts that go into the process.
Around 2010, Kanye West had come out with My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy album that he did and I also remember High School Musical. High School Musical really changed the way that I saw creativity as a whole. From that point on, I wasn’t the guy that was just making the songs, I wasn’t the guy that was the actor, I wanted to turn my songs into a script. So it went from, I want to make music and to feel the rhythms – it turned from that to wanting to be able to turn this into more of a narrative. My wife and I, who was my girlfriend at the time, she helped me get my first camera. It was a Canon 5D Mark III. We bought that camera and we started shooting. I still didn’t know that I wanted to do all of this stuff yet because I wasn’t good at it. I wasn’t good at directing, I wasn’t good at editing, I wasn’t good at coloring, I was bad at it – I was bad at all of that stuff actually.
But we just kept doing stuff, kept shooting stuff and people kept asking me for stuff. They’d say that they had a wedding on Fri and if I could help them, and I would. That would allow me to have a new lesson on a Fri that I hadn’t expected to get. So upon doing Kinfolk, I think that that was a culmination of a lot of different years of being creative and just just being in front of the camera. That’s not to say that being in front of the camera is not creative. But you see how much more creativity goes into pre-producing a project and then the post-production of a project. I think that by doing pre-production, post-production, and feeling the sense of gratitude for completing the project, I started to really feel like I was more than the person who waits to be picked and on set. A lot of the people that I worked with on set, those actors would tell me how much they appreciated the opportunity because a lot of those people were those that were super talented, but they weren’t booking stuff. Booking is not that simple. It’s hard and it feels like a lottery sometimes. It feels like you’re just not going to win! Upon working with other people and other actors, who just really want to be able to go out and do this, I started to appreciate it more because I think that I started to get more value out of my days because I was able to service more people than myself as opposed to just waiting for an audition. I know I started to appreciate that process more and more and I think that that’s where it all started.
AM: That’s really interesting and because of that, you and your wife, have your production company Augustin Productions. What are the kinds or types of projects that you’re looking to do under that company?
DA: Right now, all of the projects, when I think about it they’ve all been in alignment with very family oriented stories or family away from family kind of stories. I think that that’s what I have been coming to terms with – how much is family really part of all of our lives. Kinfolk in particular is so family centric, but aside from that, I worked on a short film that I believe made it to the Toronto Black Film Festival called TIFI {LITTLE GIRL} in creole Tifi means girl. It’s about this young girl and her family. This young girl wants to play soccer. So I think that if I can tie it into one word – cultural. Augustin Productions works on projects that have very cultural and specific minded objectives and narratives. I don’t know if that makes sense on how I just phrased that – but it makes sense to me – very cultural.
AM: No, I definitely get where you’re going with that and how the work ties itself into that category.
DA: I like that it’s family and culture based. In Kinfolk, we don’t have any Haitian characters in there, but there’s a lot of things that I think that Haitian families can relate to even though that story has more African American in it than anything else. So I think that the culture always stands firm more than anything I’m directing, shooting, editing, but also there’s family tied into it very heavily which I think helps people relate so much more when they’re watching.
AM: As an actor, what are you looking for when you’re thinking about accepting a role and what’s your creative process when you are becoming that character that you will portray?
DA: What I’m looking for – when I’m looking at a role, it’s how can I actually add value to the role? I’m looking to see where I can actually add that kind of value because I can see who the person is on paper. But when I start to speak for the person, the paper can only serve as a blueprint now. So I tend to look for everything that’s not on the paper. The paper serves solely as a blueprint, but that blueprint tells me things that sometimes, you can’t fit on the page. So I start to make choices for the actor that I believe and the writers may change some things and they’re more than welcome to – I just start to make choices for the actor based on what the blueprint tells me. If the blueprint says this character is going to say this in this scene, I’m going to take that to mean that they said that, but there is a reason why they said that, and that’s not necessarily off the page. So I’m looking to see if what they have given the actor can lead to images in my head. If it doesn’t lead to images in my head, then there might be somebody else who is best served for that role. Because I need to be well informed in how I can bring something to that role almost like a BYOB. I’ve got to bring my own bottle and food to the party. So I’m looking for something that will let me know what ingredients that this character may need so that I can sizzle off the page.
As far as how I prepare, a lot of times I think that I lead in with some kind of music. Like after I read the role, I almost always can have a soundtrack in mind. Preferably, it’s something without words, I always try to have a soundtrack in mind and I just let it play as I start to prepare. So there’s 2 types of preparation. There’s the audition and then there’s on set. If it is an audition, I’m still going to have music playing while I’m preparing, just because it almost feels like that music speaks to the character and what I’m about to do as well.
So for my role on Rap Sh!t – for that role, before I even did the audition, I had the music going in the background just playing and it was probably a very specific song based on where that person is in their life. The character Maurice, where he was in life at the beginning of the show in Season 1 is not where he is going to be in Season 2. In Season 2 by the finale, he will have gone through stuff that I don’t think that people would have assumed would be what he is going through.
So for the first season, all the songs that I was listening to were so so flirty, playful, seductive, and sensual. But in Season 2, I get into a lot more. So on my way to work, if we’re shooting in Culver City in LA or if we’re in Miami and I’m on the plane, I already have a playlist prepared to have him start to speak to me and to speak for me and these people have already gone through all of these things. One of the songs in particular, I hope it doesn’t give away any information -
AM: ooo
DA: I’ll give you 2 songs. 1 song that I would always listen to on the way to work was Michael Franks’, When Sly Calls, that’s a jazz sound. The other is The O’Jays’ Back Stabbers.
AM: Ok now!
DA: Haha so I listen to those songs on the way to work. These people have lived through that stuff already so by the time that I get into work, I feel like I have downloaded some energy before I come into work. Because what’s going to go on the screen, can’t be what’s on the page. Because on the page is literally my blueprint and for me to come in and color things onto the page so that we can fill the page with more than that black ink, I need something else that has been downloaded into my system that I can now give and bring to this party. I need to be able to bring my own bottle, to bring my own food, and I think that I get that a lot from music! I do other things too. I study in a very particular way as I’m sure that every actor does, but I kind of always have music in the background playing when I’m studying. So even when I put the script down for a second, I’m catching this person’s energy and it’s staying with me when I’m on set. It’s not just me, it’s kind of like, you know the work is us, but it’s bigger then us too.
AM: I love how you’re using music in that way!
I love this show, I’m such a huge fan of it from the words, the characters, the visuals and more! Of course, as we all watched the series finale of HBO's Insecure, to know a few months later that we could get excited about her newest project, Rap Sh!t the anticipation was real! What drew you to this series initially?
DA: Well initially, it was the fact that it was based on Miami – that was 1. He’s Haitian – that’s 2! He wasn’t Haitian at first as it just said, that he was either Haitian or Hispanic when I first saw the breakdown. Haitians are a huge part of the culture in Miami so that drew me in heavily. Lastly, and there’s more than this, but my character starts off working at a hotel in Miami. When my parents first came to South Florida from Haiti, they both came from Haiti, they were immigrants, and they both worked at hotels in Miami. My dad was a concierge and when I saw that role with him being a concierge, it was like a spiritual connection for me in a sense where it was just something small and cute that I can appreciate about this character because a majority of times, usually not everything connects.
Sometimes, you’re trying to see where you can connect this or that. I had a character on How I Met Your Father who moved to Australia. I had never been to Australia, so that was something for me that for me to be able to connect with it, I was watching documentaries of Australia and the Great Barrier Reef and stuff like that! When I saw those things and that he was Haitian, living in Miami, and a concierge, automatically it started to sit very well with me.
AM: Wow!
DA: There’s so many other things in it that are icing on the cake for me! But him being Haitian and from Miami was great! I’m from Fort Lauderdale, but we’re neighbors and that was something for me that was very very special to see. I don’t see that on every audition. There are definitely more Haitian roles and I’ve seen that uptick in the past over the past or 3 years for Haitian roles and Haitian representation. But, seeing Issa Rae’s name, I’ve always been a fan of hers especially just based on how she uplifted her community, she’s done so much creatively speaking, and how she has done so much for independent creators. I’ve always been a huge fan of hers so seeing that she was behind this and HBO – I’m a huge huge huge fan of this as well. So seeing all of these things was like, alright it’s such an alignment that for me to be able to have this role it’s just one of my most proudest achievements of my life to date.
AM: How would you describe Maurice?
DA: I would describe Maurice as indescribable, but I will still explain that. I feel like he’s all of us in a way as he’s very human individual, he’s just also a very, by any means necessary kind of guy at the same time. In spite of his by any means necessary approach, he’s able to be playful and fun. He’s flirty and supportive. I think that he’s one of the most diverse characters I’ve seen on screen because I think that there’s so much to unpack as it pertains to his character, his culture, how he communicated with women, because I think that when people talk nowadays and they talk about dating, they tend to talk about how difficult dating is. But I don’t think that it is difficult, just because it’s hard, it’s difficult because we’re not all good communicators, we don’t always know what we want, and sometimes when we do feel that we know what we want, it’s not very clear. I feel like he’s misunderstood, but he’s one of the most supportive individuals that I have seen on screen, almost to a fault.
AM: For those that may need a refresher where did we leave Maurice last season and depending on how much you can tell us, where do we pick up with him again heading into this season as it just started earlier this month?
DA: Last season, he was bathed in mystery. The season ends off with him essentially letting Shawna know that they need to cool off and they need to lay low because they got caught and they’re in trouble, but he’s playing it off like it’s ok. Because I think that he has been in these kinds of scenarios before.
Me personally, I have experienced a lot of what Maurice has experienced because when I was younger, I had a lot of friends that were in what you say in creole, the jwett – it’s a play, it’s a game and so I was on the outside looking in for some of it, but when I didn’t have a 9-5, I had friends that were doing what Maurice was doing and they would try to pull me in and sometimes, they’d get me to come in because I was trying to figure out how to pay bills or how to pay for studio sessions and so on and so forth. So, I’ve been in the situation where Maurice has been in where you’re in trouble, but you have to have confidence that you’re not in trouble so that you can actually get out of trouble.
So he’s been in a headstrong space where he’s seemingly way too cool about it and I think that it is creating an unease for Shawna because of how cool he is about it, she doesn’t necessarily know how to be easy because she doesn’t know and hasn’t had the kinds of experiences that he has had. He ends up letting her know that they’re in trouble, that she is ok, that nothing is wrong, and nothing is going to happen. Ultimately, when she goes back to work, something has happened, the cops come, and they want to speak to her. She doesn’t know how to handle it and she doesn’t know how to be cool and she runs. The season ends with her trying to run off from the police! We end up leaving it off in this space that is a bit open ended and we don’t know what is going on with Maurice and Shawna and she doesn’t know what happened nor does she know what is happening between the two of them.
Essentially I think that Shawna is going to continue to be left in that space of not knowing what is happening more that anybody. For Season 2 as we continue, I think that we’re going to play more of a game of that space and not knowing with Maurice. It’s a mystery and sometimes it’s going to be poured onto Shawna and I think that they are going to go back and forth and so I don’t want to say too much!
AM: Oh wow! We’ve been watching a few seasons and of course, we’re hooked and can’t wait to see how the season continues to evolve and unfold! When it ended last season, I wanted to know what was going on and thankfully we’ll get more answers over the next few weeks and I know our readers will feel the same way!
DA: Yes! It’s going to be a seesaw of emotions in Season 2!
AM: When you’re not on set, how do you take time for yourself to relax or to indulge in self-care?
DA: Man, man – how do I? When I’m not on set, lately what it’s been is that I have been doing therapy lately. That’s been very useful for me to figure out what self-care even looks like? So that’s been one of the things because sometimes, even when I’m not on set, I’m still working on stuff! I’m still writing scripts and I have been doing that a lot. I’ve been working with script consultant, out in London, by the name of Dominic Morgan, very helpful. I’ve been working with a script consultant here in LA called Pilar Alessandra and her program is called On The Page. It’s hard for me to call that self-care, but I have been trying to figure out too – what self-care even is.
Some of the other things that I have been doing self-care - wise is I have been watching more documentaries lately and reality TV as opposed to narratives. It’s just so I can cool off a bit on all of the story stuff that I am constantly involved in. Just so that I can have a bit more fun with it. I’ve been recording again. That’s been a lot of fun and I flew out to South Florida and recorded a lot of music with Alvin Louis and Steven Guy.
And there’s been yoga -
AM: Nice!
DA: There’s been creating even though that’s not necessarily a super chill thing to do. It does feel like self-care to me because it makes me feel like I am taking care of myself creatively and professionally as well. Last one that I will add to that is reading! I’ve been doing a ton of reading!
AM: Are there any upcoming projects that we should keep an eye out for that you will be releasing soon that you’re able to share?
DA: Oh wow, so, there definitely is. There’s some stuff that has happened that I have not been allowed to talk about!
AM: As always is the case!
DA: Yeah, so I’m trying to see if I can sneak something off about it. Let’s just say, there’s going to be something going on in the near future where it will be super hero related. I’m not saying that I will be a superhero.
AM: Okay.
DA: But it is something superhero related in the pretty near future. I just don’t have control over dates. I did just release a music video for Movie and that one was just one part of what I will be sharing with fans. There’s going to be some BTS coming out about that and also a ton of other videos that I shot. 2 more videos here in LA that were directed by Jacob Rink and I shot 2 videos in South Florida. So there is going to be a lot of music and I’m trying to see if the feature film that me and my wife are writing, I wish that I could talk about it, but I’m scared to say what the topic is of the film as I think that it is so synonymous with all of us here. For that one, I’m trying to see if we will be able to self-produce it and to shoot it on our own. I don’t know if we are going to be able to self-produce it just yet, but that’s a goal as well. So right now, I’m going to say that those are the main things that are on the forefront of my mind – music, self-produced content and a superhero thing that I am holding out for that I am hoping will come out soon. I look forward to be able to talk about that and I would also like to be able to say a Rap Sh!t Season 3!
AM: We are all hoping that there will be a Rap Sh!t Season 3! It’s been fun over the years to see you on Grey’s Anatomy as well as How I Met Your Father! In terms of you and this show, I’m always a fan of the concepts that are talked about, looking at how people navigate getting into the music business, learning more about the vibe of South Florida and anything that is missed from the show, catching up with Jessie Woo and Zach Campbell on Chat Sh!t fills in the rest of the gaps I enjoy hearing immediately after I have watched!
DA: Yeah!!!!!
AM: So I definitely hope there are more seasons to come and you continue to do what you’re doing!
DA: Thank you, I appreciate you for saying that!
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY | PG 158 - 162 Ben Cope | PG 165 + 166 Alicia Vera/HBO Max | PG 169 + 170 Erin Simkin/Max |
Read the NOV ISSUE #95 of Athleisure Mag and see THE HEAT | Daniel Augustin in Mag.
We're heading towards the end of the year which always makes us think of our favorite songs! This month, we caught up with Toby Gad a Grammy-winning, multi-platinum songwriter/producer who has written some of our favorite songs from Beyoncé's If I Were a Boy, Fergie's Big Girls Don't Cry and Demi Lovato's Skyscraper to name a few! We wanted to know more about how he got into the industry, his passion for songwriting, collaborating with fellow entertainers and his legacy project, Piano Diaries!
ATHLEISURE MAG: When did you first fall in love with music?
TOBY GAD: First it’s so great to be able to talk with you and thank you for having me! I started with music when I was maybe 5/6/7 years old? My parents had a jazz band and probably when I was already in my mother’s womb, I heard all of these jazz songs that they did. They had a very limited repertoire so I always felt that one day I wanted to be able to write different songs because by age 3 I knew all 30 of the songs that they played!
AM: I love that!
How do you feel that your parents influenced you as jazz artists. My great-uncle was the late tenor saxophonist, Joe Henderson -
TG: Yes! Amazing amazing saxophonist!
AM: I love jazz, I love a lot of the elements of it. How did it influence your music?
TG: My mother always listened to Keith Jarrett, the piano player.
AM: Love Keith Jarrett!
TG: The Köln Concert by Keith Jarrett is probably the one record that I have listened to most in my entire life. It’s accompanied me my entire life and it always makes me feel like home. It’s such a great record and just how Keith Jarrett just improvises. He used to start concerts by just playing one note and then taking it from there without making any plans. He’s just very intuitive and just playing in the moment and I just thought that that was so special. I try – I mean, I’m not that good on the piano. I try to do it myself too sometimes and I lose myself in the piano playing. It’s just such a beautiful feeling when you just watch your hands take you places and explore.
AM: We saw Keith Jarrett a few years ago at Carnegie Hall here in NY and you’re right!
TG: I was there too! I saw him also in Carnegie!
AM: Yes! It was such an amazing show and I felt that I barely breathed during that concert, it was transformative! It was so beautiful and I’m so glad that I had a chance to see him because I had never seen him in person but have heard his records. Such a genius!
When did you realize that you wanted to work in the music industry?
TG: My brother and me, we always had ambitions. At first we emulated our parents and they rehearsed in the living room and when they were done, we would take over the instruments and pretend that we were musicians too. Then I think at the age of 6 or 7, we started to have our own set of a few Rock & Roll songs and we would play them in the intermissions of our parent’s jazz band. When our parents went back onstage, we went through the audience and collected money. That was our first experience of, “wow, we can actually make money with this.”
AM: Exactly!
You’re a music producer, you’re also a songwriter, what’s your creative process like and where do you start in terms of creating a song?
TG: It's very much lyric driven. It's always collaborative. I usually start with a conversation with the artist and see where they are at that time in their life. Are they heartbroken, are they in and out of love, angry, happy? What’s the mood of the day? And out of that conversation, sometimes, quite often something sticks – some line.
Like with BC Jean, when she said, because she was angry at someone, she said, “if I were a boy, I would kick his ass” and I was like, “what did you just say?” She said, If I Were a Boy (editor’s note: originally performed by BC Jean and later that year performed by Beyoncé) and I said let’s get back to the studio now and write this song. That’s often how it happens.
AM: Wow!
What do you love about being a songwriter?
TG: Well, it’s the feeling of coming full circle. Like you do something that starts so small with an artist and you record it and then if you’re lucky, it travels around the world. Then you hear it on the radio wherever you go. That is an incredible feeling when people know you by your song. It’s amazing and I love that.
AM: How do you get inspired and where does that part kick off for you?
TG: It’s always the artists that inspire me. If I know that I am going to work with someone, like recently I worked with James Arthur and Tom Walker and those are voices that I love. I love listening to their voices and working with them, I really looked forward to it and it inspired me to really work hard and to create some good music for them.
AM: You’ve had so many accomplishments from 3 Grammy Awards, Grammy nominations, and so many people that you have worked with. What do you look for when it comes to collaborating with an artist? Are there certain things that a person or group has to have in order to go forward?
TG: It's always important to me that the artists are kind of their own boss, they have something to say, they are driven to collaborate and to write their own lyric with someone like me. It’s very important that the artists are part of the creative process and that the music that they record somehow feels a bit autobiographical. Then of course, the voice. I love great voices. I worked with Celeste recently and there are just some singers who I could hear it day and night.
AM: I mean, when I was prepping for the interview, realizing the work that you have been on from Big Girls Don’t Cry, If I Were a Boy, I Do – these are songs that I really love! What have been some of your favorite projects that you have been part of?
TG: I think that Love Song to the Earth has been a song that we did for the Paris Climate Accord and that was a song that just meant a lot to me. At my heart, I’m an environmentalist as well. I care for the planet a lot and that was a little contribution that we could do and I wrote the song with Natasha Bedingfield, John Shanks, and Sean Paul. We got more and more artists on it and by the end, we got Paul McCartney on it as well. Jon Bon Jovi as well as a number of other big name artists wanted to be on this song too. So that was a great experience!
AM: Well, you have worked with a number of artists, but you have also crossed over into a number of genres in music. Does the process change for you when you’re working on an EDM song versus a pop song?
TG: I think that for me the core is that you can always play it on the piano. A lot of good EDM songs start with a good vocal and from there you can explore all different directions. Now, with Piano Diaries, it’s stripping these songs back down to the bones and it’s just for the vocal performance and the really marvelous piano and maybe a little string accompaniment and then the remixes which go all kinds of places and I just have fun with them. But I think that all of these songs at their core, if you can just play them at the piano, that’s great!
AM: What led you to want to create Piano Diaries and to embark on this legacy project?
TG: Well most of my career has been next song, next artist, next session and trying to get a hit, hit, hit! This is the first time in my life that I feel like I can take a breath, look back, and reflect a little bit. I’m happy to rediscover these songs, but I feel that I wanted to record them in a way – how I hear them today and with artists of today, but then I also want to hear the bones of it. For people to be able to hear how it could sound stripped down and just let the lyric carry it. Then of course, to have fun with these new originals and then make crazy remixes.
AM: I love that! I mean, what is it like to work on something that obviously we already know what it’s like, but now having to reimagine it? Is that stressful or is it almost like a sense of freedom?
TG: There’s a real challenge for the original version with piano vocal to create something that feels new.
AM: Yeah.
TG: And to make sure that the singers perform it in a way that feels very original. Like for instance, the next single, Skyscraper, will be with an artist, Camylio a Universal Republic artist with a very strong voice and he sounds so different from the Demi Lovato version, but he kills it.
The current single, Big Girls Don’t Cry, Victoria Justice has such a beautiful soft voice on it that sounds so different from how Fergie sang it when we did that song back then.
AM: I can imagine that that is such an interesting process.
What was it like working with Victoria Justice on that?
TG: Victoria and I, we go way back! Back when she had this very popular television show, Victorious, we had a song, All I Want is Everything that we wrote and she was 17 years old. Ever since, every few years, we would get together and write more songs. We did a song, Girl Up, to empower young females around the world for the United Nations. Love Song to the Earth, she was part of that. So over the years, we kept in touch and she’s such a precious soul and I love her. We actually, it wasn’t just the song, we spent days together just having fun climbing mountains, going surfing, and going through Downtown LA and we filmed a lot of that and put it on social media so we have 30 or 40 little clips on TikTok and Instagram of us talking, asking each other questions, and doing fun things together.
AM: You have your own record label, Kite Records, can you tell me about that?
TG: Well, about 10 years ago, I started Kite Records and we had several records out. But back in the day it meant that you had an imprint and that the record company takes over. But now, it’s such a new perspective that you can do so much on social media and on your own. I couldn’t wait to restart the label and to hire a few new amazing people. Now in the first 2 days we have almost 70,000 streams which I think is incredible that we can achieve that on our own! I’m so happy about this!
AM: That’s amazing!
Obviously you’re focused on Piano Diaries, but are there other projects that are coming up that you would like to share with our readers to know about?
TG: There is a Christmas single, LITTLE HOUSE IN THE SNOW, that came out on Nov 24th with Marisha Wallace, she is a musical star and I am working with her on an Etta James musical that is still going to be a year or two in the making. We decided to do a Christmas song. We’re promoting it in London, there will be shows in the Royal Festival Hall on Dec 15th and 17th and we’re performing with an orchestra. We get to do this song and there are a few TV and radio performances alongside that and that’s also on our label. So I’m very excited about this! Marisha is such a great singer!
AM: That’s fantastic and I can’t wait to hear more about the Etta James musical as I’m such a fan of her music.
When you’re not producing, writing, or doing other projects, how do you take time for yourself?
TG: That’s a learning process and I think that I am getting better with it after all of these years. I love surfing! Right now you can see where we are.
AM: Um that’s an amazing view! We just had Laird Hamilton and Gabby Reece as our OCT ISSUE #94 cover!
TG: I saw that! Incredible! I’m such a fan of Laird Hamilton and I think that it’s remarkable that early on, he decided that he never wanted to compete, he just wants to have his own experience with the gigantic waves out there with the natural forces. I have a lot of respect for this man!
AM: Do you go to Nazaré and surf big waves?
TG: Ha! I think that the biggest wave that I surfed was maybe 6 – 8 ft! To me that is very big!
AM: We also had Kai Lenny for our MAY ISSUE #89 this year as well on our cover who is also known for surfing those really epic waves! Watching him on HBO's 100 Foot Wave was insane! There’s no way I could do that, but watching him do it is so impressive!
TG: Kai Lenny is such a trailblazer with all of the other things like Foiling, Wing Folling and what he does at Nazaré is unbelievable! He does back flips on those 100 foot waves!
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY | Toby Gad
Read the NOV ISSUE #95 of Athleisure Mag and see MELODIES OF LIFE | Toby Gad in mag.
This month, The Art of the Snack takes us down to Brooklyn where we plan on spending the holiday season enjoying savory seasoned bites as well as cocktails that will transport us! In addition, we're loving that the attention to detail for the audio experience is next level as well! We took some time to chat with the owener of Bohemein Bar, Tarek Debira to talk about this spot, what we should enjoy on our next visit, why it was created, and why the audio is so key!
ATHLEISURE MAG: When did Bohemien Bar open?
TAREK DEBIRA: February 2020.
AM: We like the concept of an upscale cocktail bar and listening room. Tell me the vision behind this concept and why you wanted to create a space that incorporated these elements together?
TD: Being a melophile, I was so excited to create a space that would have creative cocktails, nice design but also a great sound system.
Bars with good sound system have been around in Japan for while now but there’s only a hand full in NYC, so having the opportunity to open Bohemien Bar in my neighborhood was such fun and fulfilling experience. The vision was to give as much attention to details to all aspects of a cocktail bar, with a focus on sound experience.
AM: What is the ambiance of the space like?
TD: The ambiance is light and comfortable, transporting you away from the environment you’ll find at many other bars in Brooklyn. We wanted to create a sophisticated, yet easy-going vibe, and a go-to destination for an array of events, whether it be for celebration, a first-date, or just a drink after work.
AM: Who is the owner of Bohemien Bar and tell us about their background and why they wanted to create this space?
TD: Bohemien Bar is the most recent passion project from Husband-and-Wife team, Tarek Debira, (formerly at Hotel Costes in Paris and Nobu Los Angeles) and Patricia Ageheim, (formerly at Standard Grill and Indochine), who have an extensive resumé in the fine dining and the hospitality world. The pair also own one of Brooklyn Heights' most celebrated speakeasies Le Boudoir and beloved French bistro Chez Moi. Their passion and attention to detail come to life at Bohemien Bar, where they combine a high-fidelity listening experience with meticulously crafted cocktails and a chef-curated menu.
AM: Tell us about Perry Brandston and other projects, his background and how he came to Bohemien Bar?
TD: For the last few years, Pete has been hosting DIY audio meetups in Brooklyn for folks who like to build their own audio gear, and that's where Pete met Perry. Perry was describing a pair of line arrays he designed and built, and a few months later Pete hosted one of his meetups at Perry's space to give them a listen. Later on, a friend connected Pete and Tarek, Pete suggested a version of Perry's arrays for the bar, and the rest is history.
Perry has been in live sound and more creative sound implementations for the last 40+ years. He worked very closely back in the day with some of the pioneers of club sound. His designs come from a place of trying to recreate an authentic ecstatic experience - it has to sound great, but he's not chasing after the same audiophile nonsense others chase after. His last project was Oda - a small pair of compact flat-panel speakers that recreate the sound and feel of a live performance.)
AM: Pete Raho is the owner of Gowanus Audio. Can you tell us about his background and how he came to Bohemien Bar?
TD: Pete started Gowanus Audio to focus on classes for folks to build their own audio gear and build custom audio and speaker projects - pieces that sound incredible, made by hand, and look as good as they sound. When Pete and Tarek connected thru a friend, it was a natural fit to partner with Perry on this. We wanted to create something that sounded incredible, but that looked the part too - surprise and delight everyone who walks in, visually and aurally.
AM: What is the sound experience that one will have when here and can you tell us about the speakers that are here?
TD: We wanted to create a system that would sound great anywhere in the space - consistent throughout, not too loud or boomy anywhere - and that's easier said than done. We wanted folks to enjoy it, hear the details, and still be able to have a conversation. The opposite of typical "bar sound" where you put speakers in all four corners and call it a day.
To accomplish this, we placed two large Altec Model 17s in the rear - a speaker from the '70s the size of a small refrigerator with a lineage going back to the '40s that still sounds incredible - and then placed a pair of rather visually arresting floor-to-ceiling line arrays at the front. Small custom speaker "pendants" hanging from the ceiling throughout the bar fill in the rest.
The arrays look stunning - entirely custom for Bohemien - and project sound into the room a bit differently than more traditional speakers - all speakers together in the array are acting as one - each quiet on its own, but together they fill the room. Standing next to it, you can still have a conversation - it doesn't sound loud - and hear the music from the other array across the room. It's a really cool effect.
Overall, it "sounds like" the music is coming mainly from the Altecs or line arrays (depending on where seated), but the pendants have a deceptively large role filling in the sound since they're delayed by a few milliseconds (but don't tell anyone!) - your brain doesn't register their output. Nowhere is it too loud, or too is boomy - it just sounds "right" throughout the space.
To find out more about the sound system at Bohemien Bar, you can read more about it at Gowanus Audio.
AM: What is the meaning behind the name, Bohemien Bar?
TD: Bohemianism is the practice of an unconventional lifestyle, often in the company of like-minded people and with few permanent ties. It involves musical, artistic, literary, or spiritual pursuits.
We loved the name and the meaning behind it. Bohemien bar’s concept, décor, food and cocktail list is inspired by free thinkers, artists, musicians, wanderers and adventurers. Each decision in its creation and daily operation is made through that lens.
AM: What kind of music can guests expect when they're at the lounge?
TD: We play all kind of genre depending on the time of the day or day of the week, but some of our favorite for the early part are Psychedelic rock, surf rock bands like Kruangbin, Arc de Soleil, Latin western band like Hermanos Gutiérrez, chillout downtempo and even some of our server Amy Vachal’s songs.
Later in the evening when the bar fills up, we change it up to genres like funk, afro house, Brazilian disco, reggae. We also have DJ’s Fridays and Saturdays.
AM: Tell us about Executive Chef Steven Barrantes background and how he came to the Bar?
TD: Executive Chef Steven Barrantes (formerly Executive Sous Chef at Times Square Edition Hotel and Restaurant Daniel), who has created a menu that matches the sophistication and artistry of the cocktails has worked at Chez Moi back in 2012 with Patricia & Tarek where they became friends and stayed in touch. Steven has always had an amazing palate and is talented that we had to ask him to be involved with Bohemien.
AM: What is the thought behind offering small plates?
TD: We wanted to offer a wide selection of options in a small plate style as that’s our favorite way to eat.
We love trying many things every time we go out and thought it be a great way to go with the cocktails.
AM: What are 3 vegetables that we should order?
TD: The crudités, the crispy zucchini with smoked paprika aioli, and the beet dip with labneh and walnuts. All three selections provide a refreshing flavor, perfect to pair with your cocktails.
AM: Cheese as well as Small Bites are two categories that you offer. What are 3 dishes that you suggest that we should have from this portion of the menu?
TD: Baked Brie with herbs de Provence, Crispy Waffle Fries, and Mac & Cheese Bites with bacon jam.
AM: What are 3 dishes from Land and Sea that you suggest?
TD: Tuna on crisp is a must, Lamb chops with mint yogurt, and Duck flatbread with leeks and smoked gouda.
AM: What are 3 desserts you suggest?
TD: Warm chocolate cake, Crème Brulee cheesecake, and a bowl of candies to snack on.
AM: The cocktail menu which is so playful between the glassware and a number of the names incorporating songs for the cocktails. Tell us 3 drinks that we should consider for our next visit!
TD: Espresso Martini: Vodka, Mr. Black, espresso, bitters, coconut water, coffee smoke
Birdbirdy Num Num: Gin, sugar snap pea, jasmine tea, peach, topped with cava
Depende: White wine, green apple brandy, cardamom, spiced apple cider, pear
AM: In terms of beer and wine, what are 3 that you suggest?
TD: Terra Roza | Muscat of Alexandria Muscat ----- amazing skin contact wine from Greece
La Patience | Vin Blanc Grenache Blanc, Rhone ----- cool organic wine from France
Kölsch | Reissdorf German beer
AM: What are 3 mocktails that we should have on our radar?
TD: Roselle: Ritual Tequila Alternative, bitter orange cordial, lime & hibiscus Ice
Chrysalis: Butterfly pea flower, tea, fresh ginger, lime, seltzer
Piano: Clarified green apple juice, celery, lemon, chamomile, mirin, aquafaba
AM: Are there any special events that we should know about?
TD: Yes, we are having a Christmas pop up during the month of December where we decorate the whole bar with Christmas decoration and offer special cocktails in santa mugs, ginger bread mugs etc…
IG @bohemienbar
PHOTOS COURTESY | Bohemien Bar
Read the NOV ISSUE #95 of Athleisure Mag and see THE ART OF THE SNACK | Bohemien Bar in mag.
PHOTO CREDIT | Unsplash/Daniel Fazio
Telemedicine is a rapidly growing field that has revolutionized the way healthcare is delivered. It involves the use of technology to provide medical care and consultation remotely. Telemedicine has been particularly effective in bridging the gap in access to healthcare for individuals who face barriers to care, such as those living in rural areas, those with mobility issues, and those with limited access to transportation.
One area in which telemedicine has been particularly effective is in improving access to hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Access to HRT can be challenging for many individuals due to a variety of factors, including geographic location, financial barriers, and lack of access to specialized care. Telemedicine has helped to address these barriers by providing access to HRT consultations and prescription services remotely, making it easier for individuals to access the care they need.
Telehealth and e-health are two terms that are often used interchangeably but have different meanings. Telehealth refers to the use of technology to provide healthcare services and information, while e-health refers to the use of electronic communication and information technologies to improve healthcare delivery. Telehealth encompasses a broader range of services, including remote patient monitoring, telemedicine, and health education.
Telemedicine has come a long way since its inception in the 1950s. Initially, it was used to provide medical care to patients in remote areas. However, with the advancement of technology, telemedicine has evolved to include a wider range of services, such as virtual consultations, remote patient monitoring, and online health education.
Telemedicine has become an essential tool in healthcare delivery, particularly during the recent pandemic, where it has enabled healthcare providers to deliver care remotely while minimizing the risk of infection.
There are several key components of telemedicine that enable its success. These include:
● Information Technology: Telemedicine relies on information technology to facilitate communication between healthcare providers and patients. This includes video conferencing, secure messaging, and electronic health records.
● Communication Technologies: Telemedicine uses a variety of communication technologies to enable remote consultations, including telephone, email, and video conferencing.
● Healthcare Providers: Telemedicine requires healthcare providers who are trained in the use of technology and can provide high-quality care remotely.
● Patients: Telemedicine relies on patients who are willing and able to use technology to receive healthcare services remotely.
Telemedicine has become an important tool in bridging the gap in HRT access. It has revolutionized the way healthcare is delivered, making it more convenient and accessible for patients. Telemedicine has been particularly helpful in the field of HRT, where patients need frequent monitoring and follow-up care.
Telemedicine has several benefits for patients seeking HRT. It provides a convenient way for patients to access care without having to travel long distances. Thanks to online HRT clinics like Amazing Meds, patients can have virtual consultations with their healthcare providers, get their prescriptions refilled, and receive follow-up care from the comfort of their homes. Telemedicine also reduces the cost of care, as patients do not have to pay for transportation and other associated costs.
Telemedicine has also proven to be an effective continuity of care tool in the field of HRT. Patients can receive care from the same healthcare provider, even if they move to a different location. This ensures that patients receive consistent care and monitoring, which is crucial in the management of HRT. Telemedicine also enables healthcare providers to monitor patients' progress remotely, ensuring that any changes in treatment are made promptly.
Several case studies have been conducted to evaluate the impact of telemedicine on HRT. One study found that telemedicine improved patient experience and satisfaction, as patients were able to receive care in a more convenient and timely manner. Another study found that telemedicine improved health outcomes for patients, as they were able to receive more frequent monitoring and follow-up care.
Telemedicine has emerged as a promising solution to overcome barriers to accessing hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Several factors including lack of access to healthcare facilities, geographic distance, and financial constraints have contributed to the underutilization of HRT. The following subsections explore how telemedicine is bridging the gap in HRT access.
One of the major challenges in implementing telemedicine for HRT access is the digital divide. Many people in underserved areas lack access to high-speed internet and digital devices, which are essential for telemedicine consultations.
The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has recognized this issue and has taken steps to address it. For instance, the HHS has launched the Rural Health Care Program, which provides funding to eligible healthcare providers for telemedicine equipment and services. Additionally, the HHS has expanded the availability of broadband internet in rural areas through its Rural Broadband Program.
Telemedicine has the potential to improve HRT access in underserved areas. For instance, patients living in rural areas often have to travel long distances to access HRT services. Telemedicine consultations can save patients time and money by eliminating the need for travel. Moreover, telemedicine can help overcome the shortage of healthcare providers in rural areas. By leveraging telemedicine technology, providers can offer HRT consultations to patients from remote locations.
The use of telemedicine for HRT consultations is regulated by state and federal laws. Medicare and Medicaid have expanded their coverage of telemedicine services, making it easier for patients to access HRT consultations. In addition, several states have passed laws that require private insurers to cover telemedicine services. These legislative changes have made it easier for patients to access HRT consultations from the comfort of their homes.
Telemedicine is a rapidly growing field that is changing the way healthcare is delivered. It is particularly beneficial for those who have limited access to healthcare services, including hormone replacement therapy (HRT). However, there are several technological considerations that must be taken into account to ensure a seamless and secure telemedicine experience.
Security and privacy are critical when it comes to telemedicine. Patients must feel confident that their personal information is protected, and that their telemedicine consultations are secure. Healthcare providers must ensure that they are using secure platforms and encryption technologies to protect patient data. They must also comply with HIPAA regulations to ensure that patient information is kept confidential.
Reliable internet access and access to technology are essential for telemedicine consultations. Patients must have access to a reliable internet connection and a device that is compatible with the telemedicine platform. Healthcare providers must ensure that their equipment is up-to-date and that they have the necessary technological infrastructure to support telemedicine consultations.
To ensure a successful telemedicine consultation, patients must have access to the necessary equipment, including a webcam, microphone, and speakers. Healthcare providers must also ensure that their telemedicine platform is easy to use and that patients are provided with clear instructions on how to access the platform.
Telemedicine has become a popular alternative to in-person visits, especially in the field of Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT). By leveraging technology, patients can access care from the comfort of their homes, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care. However, to ensure that telemedicine is effective in providing quality care, certain best practices must be followed.
Communication is key to the success of any telemedicine program. When it comes to HRT, effective communication is essential to ensure that patients receive the right treatment and support. Here are some best practices for developing effective communication strategies:
● Use videoconferencing: Videoconferencing is an effective way to communicate with patients, as it allows for face-to-face interaction. This helps to build trust and rapport between patients and providers, which is essential in HRT.
● Use patient portals: Patient portals can be used to communicate with patients between visits. Providers can use portals to send messages, share test results, and provide educational materials.
● Standardize communication protocols: Standardizing communication protocols can help to ensure that all providers are communicating in the same way. This can help to reduce confusion and errors.
Standardizing virtual care protocols is important to ensure that patients receive consistent care, regardless of their location. Here are some best practices for standardizing virtual care protocols:
● Develop a standard protocol for virtual visits: Virtual visits should follow a standard protocol to ensure that all patients receive the same level of care. This can include pre-visit preparation, a standardized visit structure, and post-visit follow-up.
● Use evidence-based guidelines: Providers should use evidence-based guidelines to ensure that patients receive the right treatment. This can help to reduce variability in care and improve outcomes.
● Ensure that all providers are trained in virtual care: All providers who participate in telemedicine should be trained in virtual care. This can help to ensure that all providers are comfortable with the technology and can provide high-quality care.
By following these best practices, providers can ensure that telemedicine is effective in providing quality care to patients in need of HRT.
As telemedicine continues to gain popularity, it is expected to play an increasingly important role in bridging the gap in HRT access. Here are some emerging trends in telehealth and predictions for healthcare delivery that could shape the future of HRT access through telemedicine.
Remote monitoring is one of the emerging trends in telehealth that is expected to have a significant impact on HRT access. Remote monitoring allows healthcare providers to monitor patients' health status and adjust their treatment plans based on real-time data. This can be particularly useful for patients who are on HRT and need regular check-ups to ensure that their hormone levels are within the desired range.
Another trend that is expected to shape the future of telemedicine is the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) algorithms. These technologies can help healthcare providers diagnose and treat patients more accurately and efficiently. For example, an AI-powered chatbot could help patients get quick answers to their questions about HRT, while an ML algorithm could analyze patients' medical records to identify patterns and trends that could inform their treatment plans.
As telemedicine continues to evolve, it is expected to become more accessible and affordable for patients. This could be particularly beneficial for patients who live in rural or remote areas and have limited access to healthcare services. With telemedicine, these patients could receive HRT consultations and prescriptions without having to travel long distances to see a specialist.
In addition, telemedicine is expected to become more integrated with other healthcare services, such as electronic health records (EHRs) and telepharmacy. This could help streamline the healthcare delivery process and make it more convenient for patients to access the medications they need.
Overall, the future of telemedicine and HRT access looks promising. With emerging trends in telehealth and predictions for healthcare delivery, patients can expect to receive more personalized, efficient, and convenient care. As telemedicine continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how it transforms the healthcare industry and improves HRT access for patients around the world.
This month, we celebrated CASIO's G-SHOCK's 40th Anniversary which included a press conference to hear about its history as well as the future of this brand. We were able to hear about the brands' four decades of pushing the boundaries of watch design as well as technology. The Father of G-SHOCK and creator, Kikuo Ibe shared his story and the origins of the brand. He also shared the Dream Project #2 a new luxury, AI-designed timepiece, that will be auctioned off at PHILLIPS on Dec 9th and 10th that has a bold design that pays homage to the brand's heritage. This model includes the latest advancements in watchmaking technology.
The G-D001 is an 18K yellow gold for the case, bezel, and band. Hand polishing is applied throughout the piece to give the components the optimal lustre for this limited edition of one timepiece worldwide. This watch incorporates cutting edge AI technologies into its design process.
Prior to and after this press conference, a number of the brand's watches were showcased to see how the brand started, evolved and special collaborations that they have participated with as well.
The night concluded with a few words from international superstar, J Balvin on how he aligned with the brand growing up in Columbia and what it meant to him. Later in the evening, he also performed a private concert that took the night to the next level as he performed some of his major hits.
IG @gshock_us
PHOTOGRAPHY CREDITS | PG 114 - 115 + 118 - 127 Shutterstock/Andrew Walker + Adela Loconte | PG 116 Paul Farkas |
Read the NOV ISSUE #95 of Athleisure Mag and see RHYTHM + TIME 40TH ANNIVERSARY : Casio’s G-Shock + J Balvin in mag.
There are a number of workouts and studio fitness methods that we all talk about and have incorporated into our routines! Lagree Fitness is one of them and we had the chance to connect with the founder, Sebastien Lagree to talk more about the method, the equipment, and more.
ATHLEISURE MAG: In addition to creating your method, you also have the equipment as well. Can you tell us about the equipment that you offer and why one would use those as we are all looking at what we should add to our home gyms.
SEBASTIEN LAGREE: Sure. You cannot do my method unless you train on my equipment; I continuously evolve both and both are inseparable. First off, I design all my equipment around the user. I need to make sure it accommodates both small and large frame. Second, the equipment has to be intuitive which most fitness equipment are not. I've become extremely critical of fitness equipment and I can say that the majority of fitness machines are built very poorly. Fitness in general has gone downhill.
AM: In addition to your machines, you have a number of accessories that can be added to the equipment as well as to allow you to continue to workout in the method when you're not home. What are some of your favorites that we should know about?
SL: Correct, the accessories are necessary to perform more exercises and target specific muscles in the body. My favorite is the long black cable which adds hundreds of moves to the machine.
AM: You are available in studios across the country, can you tell us about your On Demand offerings?
SL: Correct, we have almost 600 studios worldwide and we do also offer classes on our virtual platform www.lagreeod.com. That platform is super convenient for those who don't have a studio nearby or for the students who want to make sure they have perfect form.
AM: For those that are new to the method, what are some tips that you suggest that we should keep in mind?
SL: Yes, when you do Lagree, try to move as slow and for as long as possible while maintaining perfect form. It sounds simple but it’s actually super challenging. Lagree is not a workout that you are going to master. There is no finish line.
AM: For those that are looking to get that Ken and Barbie physique? How can they go about it by doing your method?
SL: To achieve the K&B look, you need to do a muscular endurance workout which is exactly what Lagree does.
You need to keep your muscles under tension for a long long time. You also need to eat super clean.
AM: Are there upcoming events that you have coming up that you would like to share?
SL: Yes, we are hosting our first Lagree Summit in Vegas next year at MGM Hotel next year March 1st, 2nd and 3rd. This will be our first Lagree Trade Show.
AM: What's next for you and the method?
SL: A lot, I have many new designs and models that I am launching next year. I am adding electronics and eventually AI to my models. I also launched Lagree 2.0 this year and now I am working on Lagree 3.0
PHOTO CREDITS | Sebastien Lagree
Read the NOV ISSUE #95 of Athleisure Mag and see METHOD + DISCIPLINE | Sebastian Lagree in mag.
Season 3 of STARZ's POWER BOOK III: Raising Kanan is back on Dec 1st at midnight on the STARZ app (all STARZ streaming and on-demand platforms) as well as on STARZ at 9pm ET every Friday night! We caught up with MeKai Curtis (Arrested Development, Girl Meets World, Milo Murphy's Law), Joey BadA$$ (Wu-Tang: An American Saga, Mr. Robot, Grown-ish), and London Brown (The Hustle, Ballers, American Soul) who are all back for the latest season. We wanted to find out about what we can expect for this season (season 4 is not only renewed but is already in production) as well as what we should be excited for!
MeKai plays Kanan Stark in the 90's in the origin story of the character played by Curtis "50 Cent" Jackson in POWER, the flagship series. We know he's the devoted son of Raquel "Raq" Thomas (Patina Miller) and as he searches for answers that he will ultimately evolve. We wanted to know how he approaches Kanan, what drew him to this series and what he is excited for.
ATHLEISURE MAG: It’s so exciting to be able to connect with you. How do you approach playing Kanan?
MEKAI CURTIS: You know, I approach it like any other character that I would approach and like how anybody would approach life. I take it line by line, scene by scene, day by day, reaction by reaction – I kind of just try to make it as organic as I can. That’s all acting it. It’s reacting.
AM: Where did we leave Kanan last season and where are we picking up with him again?
MC: I think that you’ll kind of find Kanan in the same spot that you left him at the end of season 2. He’s just trying to get a lot of answers to a lot of questions that he has and some of the answers that he’s getting aren’t necessarily adding up. So he dives deeper into finding those answers and then he builds his truth and his new world around that information! So you know, you’re just again finding an inquisitive young man trying to figure out what he is doing in life and who he is.
AM: What made you want to play this character as well as to join this amazing cast?
MC: Ah man, I mean, wanting to play this character, it stemmed from partially being a fan of the original franchise and then just wanting to push myself as an artist and to take on something new, to stretch my chops and to do something that I knew that I could. But even signing on, I had no idea in certain ways on what I was stepping into. I’m beyond grateful for it. I’m beyond ready for it. But even the magnitude of where we are and what we’re creating, it wasn’t so heavily on me at the time. It was just again about doing good work and getting to be part of the POWER franchise!
AM: What should fans be excited about as we come into the season as I can’t believe that it launches this Fri on Dec 1st!
MC: Ah wow! It is crazy! Oh wow, it is coming up on Fri!
AM: I know, right?
MC: Yo, time is moving – I mean time is just timing! It’s just happening. Everything is happening so fast! I mean, you just threw me for a loop with that one!
I mean it’s about just being able to watch the season! It’s about continuing the journey and continuing the ride with us. It’s about continuing to unfold and discover this world and these characters and what made the person – the original people that the fans of the original franchise are really able to get to understand. It’s about knowing the person that they saw from the original and new people that we have garnered and have started to bring onto the ship. They’re getting to enjoy just a really good story. It’s a coming of age story, a story of love, a story of forgiveness, a story of ups and downs and bonding. It’s about just trying to pave your way and making it do what it do every day that you’re allowed to!
We've been a fan of rapper and actor, Joey BadA$$ and the energy that he brings into playing playing notorious drug lord, Kadeem “Unique” Mathis, a character that continues to unveil his complexities from season to season. In addition to finding out how he brings this character to life, we also wanted to know what he loves about playing him as well as what drew him to the POWER universe.
ATHLEISURE MAG: How do you approach playing Unique?
JOEY BADA$$: Well you know, once I get suited and booted, it’s definitely like I get 5 points for that! You know what I mean? Just being in the attire! Also, it’s just more of the mental preparation than anything. You know, I’m thinking about what must be going on in the character’s mind, what are the current challenges that he’s facing and how can I bring that to life on the screen? How can I show that with my actions or my mannerisms or even my facial expressions.
AM: Where did we leave Unique last season and where are we picking up with him again this season?
JB: So you know, last season we saw the villain become the hero and I thought that that was very interesting. You know, I think that with this new season, historically, he was the guy that you hated that you loved or the guy that you loved that you hated. But now, I feel like people are going to see him in a new light this season because he’s in much more of a vulnerable space navigating this chemistry between him and Raq. So, you know his brother being back home and Ronnie’s (Grantham Coleman) not happy with what Unique has done. So there’s this work-life balance that Unique is facing and you know, I think that people are really going to see more of the human aspect of Unique more than anything this season so I’m excited about that!
AM: What made you want to play this character and be part of this phenomenal cast?
JB: Well I’ve been a fan of the original POWER series you know for a long time. When I saw that they were doing a spin-off, I just thought, look I just need a role. It don’t really matter which one it is, but once the role of Unique came and I auditioned for this character and it landed on my desk, I’m like, this is it – this is me. You know, by every means, this is me. I felt like I was born to play this character, you know what I’m saying? It’s been exciting to say the least and I’m super grateful to be part of this universe and to be part of the family.
AM: It’s always fun to see when you’re on screen! Are there any other upcoming projects that we should keep our eye out for that you can tell us about?
JB: Well, as we know, Raising Kanan Season 3 is coming. I’m working on a new album right now to put out at the top of next year. So I’m looking forward to that! Yeah and you know, more film stuff. I’m actually starting up a production company right now so I’m actually looking to get my hand involved in the executive level in this film industry so I am genuinely excited about that! I’ll be producing some of my own projects. I’m just looking forward to elevation and growth!
IG @joeybadass
Before the series premiere of this show, we caught up with London Brown who plays Marvin Thomas, who is Raq's older brother and Kanan's uncle. In that interview, he introduced us to POWER BOOK III, and it's great to now touchbase with him ahead of the 3rd season, to know more about his thoughts on the intracacies of Marvin, how he continues to approach him when playing him, why he enjoys bringing him to life and of course, what we need to know to be prepared for the upcoming season.
ATHLEISURE MAG: How do you approach playing Marvin?
LONDON BROWN: With a lot of concentration and focus in the sense that I just try to make sure that I try to create a lot of layers for Marvin so that he really becomes 3 dimensional and that he’s just not just some caricature, but more so a real person with real feelings. That way, the audience can go on a journey with me.
AM: Where did we leave Marvin last season, and where are we picking up with him again?
LB: We leave Marvin last season injured and in the middle of trying to repair relationships and we pick it up with him right there in the sense of he’s learned some lessons and now he is trying to apply those lessons to really become a better person. Not only for himself, but for those that he loves.
AM: We had the pleasure to catch up before the first season aired and so to talk with you again has been great. What do you enjoy about playing him across these seasons?
LB: The thing that I enjoy is experimenting with the arc of Marvin. That’s what I like! I don’t like for any character to stay in one thing and you can’t put Marvin in any kind of particular space because he’s doing different things. People can even experience that from the first season. This is true even from season to season. Even within a scene, you'll see Marvin go from one extreme to the next. So that’s been fun, just to get into the layers of playing Marvin.
AM: What should we expect from this season as we’re excited that this show is back!
LB: I think that people should expect plot twists and more specifically with Marvin. Just when people thought that they understood Marvin, they’re going to see a completely different side of Marvin that people can appreciate and whatever ideas that they thought that they had of Marvin in Season 1 like, “oh man, he did – oh wait – he is – he’s like this and like that!” But Marvin is still Marvin. So Marvin don’t start no issues, but if you cross him, he’ll finish them. So the undertone of Marvin is still there, but there are a lot of new notes to Marvin that we explored.
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY | STARZ/POWER BOOK III: Raising Kanan
Read the NOV ISSUE #95 of Athleisure Mag and see POWER BOOK III: Raising Kanan - Realities of Life | MeKai Curtis, Joey BadA$$, London Brown in mag.
PHOTO CREDIT | Old Parr
With the holiday season in full swing, we’re all excited about what’s taking place next year as well as thinking back to what we enjoyed this year! We caught up with Latin Grammy nominee RAWAYANA’s lead singer, Beto Montenegro to talk about his sensational group, the successes they’ve had this year, their partnership with Old Parr Whisky and what we can look forward to with them in 2024!
ATHLEISURE MAG: When did you fall in love with music?
BETO MONTENEGRO: Because music makes me happy, makes me smile. I feel it is the best tool to express my point of view about life.
AM: When did you realize that you wanted to do this professionally?
BM: After I realized that we had a big community waiting and asking for new music from us.
AM: When did you realize that you wanted to come together to create RAWAYANA?
BM: We really just did it for fun. There was no real plan to “create” it.
AM: How would you define the RAWAYANA sound?
BM: I think it’s an eclectic mixture of Caribbean sounds influenced by pop music.
AM: You were nominated as Best New Artist at the 18th Annual Latin Grammy Awards back in 2017, what did it mean to you to have that distinction?
BM: I don’t like to pay attention to awards. I feel that art or music is not a competition, but in a way it felt cool to be recognized by the industry so we had such a good time spending time with a lot of friends in the business.
AM: What have been some of your favorite collaborations that you've had musically?
BM: Danny Ocean, Elena Rose, Natalia Lafourcade, Micro TDH, Mr Eazi… all our collaborations are amazing.
AM: You've released 5 studio albums and most recently ¿Quién trae las Cornetas?'(Who Brings the speakers?) tell me about this and what we can expect from it.
BM: It’s an album about cycles and new journeys. For us the music and Rawayana is about a journey, so the music is a very important part in our journey. It’s a very personal album but also the union of like-minded people making music and having fun in the studio.
AM: You just finished a tour here in the US and you already have dates lined up for next year, do you have any routines that you do right before a show to get ready to hit the stage?
BM: I warm up my voice in the shower.
AM: Do you have routines that you do after the show so that you can come down from all that energy?
BM: I really don’t have one. It always changes on nightly basis.
AM: You have a nice breather now with it being the holidays. You created a cocktail in collaboration with Old Parr known as Old Parr Rawy. How did your partnership come about and tell us about this drink?
BM: We’re thrilled with this partnership with Old Parr to bring even more golden moments to our music. The brand is an icon in Latin America, and just like the whisky, our music is a fusion of different sounds, flavors, and rhythms, so we know our fans will be just as excited to raise a glass of Old Parr with us. Also, we wanted to give our fans a taste of home during the Holiday season by creating a cocktail inspired by Venezuela and the fusion of flavors we create as a band—The Old Parr Rawy.
AM: If you haven't stated it already, how does this drink tie into the band and your sound?
BM: The Old Parr Rawy is a delicious and easy-to-make cocktail made for everyday golden moments this Holiday season – from enjoying the energy from a concert to toasting with our closest friends. This cocktail is a fusion of different flavors, sounds, and rhythms, like our music.
AM: How will you spend the holiday season?
BM: With my childhood friends and family!
Read the latest issue of Athleisure Mag.
This month, our editorial shoot takes us to The Algonquin Hotel Times Square, Autograph Collection, a Marriott property which is a living gateway to the past, present, and the future as it embodies the early 1900's of literary and Hollywood luminaries that graced the rooms of this hotel while currently being a destination of the modern era with an open path to the iterations it will take as the years continue to evolve.
The holiday season is definitely a marathon and not a sprint as it takes place over a number of weeks spanning between the fall and the winter. We wanted to look at the many days that take place that are casual and allow us to connect to one another as we make our way closer and closer to more signature events! We spend a lot of time with friends, family, significant others, co-workers and more. Our shoot took place at the Tallulah Bankhead suite at this iconic hotel that is in the heart of it all. We wanted to find out more about the history of this hotel, why it's an important part of NYC history, what guests can expect whether they're staying for business, a staycation, or a vacation and more. We took some time to catch up with The Algonquin Hotel's General Manager Willis Loughhead to find out more!
ATHLEISURE MAG: It was such a pleasure to shoot at the Algonquin Hotel and being there, we learned a lot more about the property and its history. When did the Algonquin first open and can you take us back and through the storied history of this hotel as it's over 100 years old!
WILLIS LOUGHHEAD: The land for the Algonquin Hotel was purchased in 1901 for $180,000. In just under a year, at a cost of $500,000, the Algonquin Hotel was built and opened on November 22, 1902. Named for a New England Native American tribe, the hotel welcomed its first guests - a room with a bath set a traveler back $2 per night.
From the day it opened into the current time, the Algonquin has maintained close ties to the arts community with early residents who included the great star John Barrymore, Drew Barrymore’s grandfather, Mary Pickford, and Douglas Fairbanks. Writers, Playwrights, humorists and critics, as well as editors of both fact and fiction, converged on the Algonquin in the decade between 1919 and 1929, founding the legendary Round Table. My Fair Lady was written in suite 908. William Faulkner wrote his Nobel Prize speech in a room. The Algonquin has been both primary residence and preferred NYC hotel for incredible talent like Maya Angelou, Norman Mailer, Ralph Ellison, James Baldwin, Steve Martin, and Lou Reed, to name a few. Films with a Round Table history include Citizen Kane, Giant, It’s a Wonderful Life, The Sound of Music, and many more.
I continue to host close friends in the arts community such as legendary musicians like Thurston Moore from Sonic Youth, James Ijames, who celebrated his Tony nomination for his play Fat Ham under our roof, and both Colson Whitehead and Richard Hell, New York City legends who read in the Oak Room.
AM: We had the pleasure of shooting at the Tallulah Bankhead Suite (loved the phones which were such a great touch and the blue shade of the paint was so calming) and we know that there have been other suites that are named after notable people, can you tell us about them and why there is such a connection with these individuals?
WL: All 24 of our suites are named after our residents like Dorothy Parker 1106, Herbert Ross 610 and John Barrymore 209.
AM: Who have been some notable people that stayed here and can you tell us more about the connection between the hotel and literary figures? Tell us about the Algonquin Cat! We didn't see Hamlet, but we know that he is just as much a key figure as others who have stayed there.
WL: Hamlet is featured in a children’s book, The Algonquin Cat, illustrated by Hillary Knight who also illustrated the Eloise series set in another famous NYC hotel where I served as Executive Chef for a number of years before moving into Hotel Management.
AM: Tell us about The Blue Bar and The Lobby Lounge. Is there a signature drink that we should know about?
WL: The most famous cocktail is none too cleverly named, The Algonquin; a mix of woodsy rye whiskey, pineapple, bianco vermouth and some say a touch of Peychaud bitters like a Sazerac. We also currently feature a Hamlet cocktail with Rocky’s Brooklyn Botanical, Galliano L’Autentico and Whispering Angel Rosé. Our cocktail lists change frequently and right now I am working on some Holiday treats with Hot Cocoa and Mezcal.
AM: For those looking to grab a bite at the hotel, what can you tell us about The Round Table?
WL: The Blue Bar Restaurant & Lounge is a 3 meal restaurant built around the legendary Blue Bar which opened in 1902 with the hotel. At night we feature cocktail cuisine with classic New York City inspiration from the Oysters Rockefeller to a deli-style Reuben, and we do a brisk, healthy lunch with servers who I would put up against the best of the cities’ baristas. You should see the foam they get for a cappuccino even out of the almond milk that I prefer!
AM: For those that are looking to create an event whether it's a launch, sales meeting, etc - what can you tell us about event spaces that you have available?
WL: We host wonderful and intimate occasions in our small private library featuring Round Table first editions, signed collectibles, vintage 1950’s and 1960’s Playboy magazines and recent releases and memoirs like Thurston Moore’s Sonic Life which just came out. In the early 90's, I worked for Arnold Schwarzenegger as a wood burning oven chef at his restaurant Schatzi on Main in Venice California, so sitting amongst the Pulitzer Prize winners is a copy of Arnold’s latest, Be Useful. We also use the Library a great deal for Broadway stars to dress and have makeup done before premieres and on opening nights.
We also have the famous Oak Room, a wood paneled vintage street front room that can seat 110, for formal dinners next to Hirschfeld’s original artwork that adorns the walls.
AM: At the conclusion of our shoot, we actually took in some live music, which was a great way to decompress, what events do you typically have that guests or those grabbing a drink can enjoy?
WL: We have a culture and history of live music at the Algonquin. It was a personal goal of mine to breathe life into that tradition that started with Ella Fitzgerald and so many others like Burt Bacharach, Elvis Costello, Harry Connick, and Oscar Peterson. On Tuesday nights, we feature classic cabaret music with the inimitable KT Sullivan, and on Thursdays, we have live piano and vocals with Rocco DellaNeve who is a legend in the making. You should hear his version of Enter Sandman by Metallica and he also does a killer New York State of Mind. Guest stars always drop by.
October and December are my charity months to raise money for Breast Cancer and Toys for Tots, so our programming expands greatly with Broadway’s biggest talent coming in to belt numbers and dance. Keep your eyes and ears open in December when we have 10 nights of incredible holiday entertainment including one “Santa Baby” drag show that will raise this 120 year old roof.
AM: Tell us about the kinds of rooms that are available and also provide additional details about the suite we were in, The Tallulah Bankhead Suite?
WL: Our suites and king rooms book first. We are a boutique sized hotel with 181 total rooms. None of our rooms are exactly the same and some rooms have a haunted history that has been verified by both official ghost hunters as well as nightly guests. Was it Robert Benchley who moved your towels around or turned on the lamps in your suite living room? Did Dorothy Parker open the shades that you closed before turning in? Perhaps.
In 1959, the filmmaker Preston Sturges passed away in a suite and Montgomery Clift was a frequent visitor. Perhaps.
AM: For a truly decadent stay for our readers is there anything that you can suggest that can be enjoyed at the hotel? I know at one time, you had a $10,000 Martini that had diamonds in it!
WL: We have two packages to note:
A Dine with a Broadway Star package, where pre-theater you are able to dine at the Infamous Round Table with one of the stars of the show that you are seeing that evening.
Hex and the City package for 2024 with our Resident Wellness Witch, CardsyB who will help you stay magical by reading your tarot cards and your energy so that you can straighten up and fly right in 2024. All guests will receive a reading, CardsyB’s memoir, a Stay Magical AF candle and a Bad@ss B*tches Tarot Deck.
AM: For those that are enjoying a staycation at the hotel during the holiday season, what are activities that you suggest that are in the neighborhood that they should take out?
WL: All the B’s: Bryant Park, Broadway and Books at the NYPL.
AM: For those who have never been to NYC and are here for vacation during the holidays, what would you suggest that they should do?
WL: Get inspired, keep a notebook, write your story. The good ol’ days are now and keep your mind wide open. New York is an awesome place to be surprised. Rockefeller Center has grown immensely and Central Park is just a shopping walk away up 5th avenue.
AM: For those that have corporate functions that are being held at the hotel, do you have any ideas of what they can enjoy?
WL: I partner with BroadwayPlus.com. One of my close friends - ask for Corey - is the guru of the VIP corporate experience with them. They book custom concerts, VIP tickets, arrange backstage meet and greets, and generally unlock all of the perks normally reserved for the highest tier of celebrity guest and bring it to the corporate accounts. We also encourage a Bowery Boys Walking Tour or one of the many sightseeing tours via boat around Manhattan that my team can arrange.
AM: For those that have corporate functions that are being held at the hotel, do you have any ideas of what they can enjoy?
WL: I partner with BroadwayPlus.com. One of my close friends - ask for Corey - is the guru of the VIP corporate experience with them. They book custom concerts, VIP tickets, arrange backstage meet and greets, and generally unlock all of the perks normally reserved for the highest tier of celebrity guest and bring it to the corporate accounts. We also encourage a Bowery Boys Walking Tour or one of the many sightseeing tours via boat around Manhattan that my team can arrange.
AM: The holiday season is a major time of year, are there events that the hotel will offer that we should know about and can share with our readers? Thinking ahead to Valentine's Day, is there anything that we should know?
WL: Book your 2 night Date Night Package now where you get a $150 credit in the Blue Bar, a bespoke scented candle, a chocolate rose and a guaranteed table in the restaurant.
If your pet is your date, perhaps our Fuwwy Fwiends Package, going live in December, with a:
Waived pet fee
Polaroid with Hamlet, you and your pet
Vintage bronze “A” Algonquin pet tag
Trip for your pet to the Algonquin Pawwty Chest, a treasure chest of toys and treats from our local pet shops
Use of our cat or dog beds so that you and your date can sleep in peace
It was such a pleasure to bring our editorial to life at the Algonquin that's filled with history, NY glamour, and a vibe of creativity that's all its own. This shoot included our focus on bringing 5 looks that lets us look at fall and winter holidays here in NY that you can enjoy on your next stay at the Algonquin as well as in the neighborhood.
TIS THE SEASON | CREDITS
LOUNGE LOOK PG 97 - 101 | Anna Zaia - PONO Colette Matte Earring | VIRGIN, SAINTS & ANGELS Saint Deco Cross Medallion + Delfina 6mm Crystal Jet Beaded Necklace | MAISON MIRU Floating Sphere Stacking Ring Trio - Gold | MAISON DE PAPILLON Jesse Silk Charmeuse Boyfriend Shirt Longtail | BCBG Ruched Velour Legging | Benjamin Simic - BEN SHERMAN Signature House Taped Track Pant |
FITNESS LOOK PG 88 - 95 | Anna Zaia - PONO Silvia H20 Earring Honey | AMELIA ROSE JEWELRY Fluorite Heishi Necklace Latte | ETTIKA Your Essential Flex Snake Chain 18k Gold Plated Bangle Set | MAISON DE PAPILLON Vail Cacoon Sweater | ABERCROMBIE + FITCH YPB Sculpt Squareneck Slim Tank + YPB MotionTEK High Rise Lined Workout Short | Benjamin Simic - ADIDAS RPT-02 SOL | MAISON MIRU Bubble Bracelet 7" | GREATNESS WINS Performance Training Tank | ATHLEISUREVERSE Bomber Jacket | ABERCROMBIE + FITCH Gym to Grocery Jogger |
WFH LOUNGE III PG 102 - 105 | Anna Zaia - VIRGINS, SAINTS + ANGELS Edie Crystal Post Earrings | PONO Sea Chain Necklace Latte | ATHLEISUREVERSE Cropped Fleece Hoodie + Jogger Set | SAVE THE DUCK Iria Long Hooded Puffer Vest | Benjamin Simic - | BEN SHERMAN Signature Zip-Through Track Jacket |
OUT + ABOUT LOOK IV PG 80 - 86 | Anna Zaia - DEEPA GURNANI FW23 Crab Earrings | DEEPA BY DEEPA GURNANI FW23 Loretta Necklace | ETTIKA Abstract Flex 18K Gold Plated Cuff | CARRERA 318/S | AUTUMN CASHMERE Sweater Dress | AEROSOLES Loafer | Benjamin Simic - MARC JACOBS Shield Sunglasses | BEN SHERMAN Lennon "Imagine" Mod Knit Stripe Polo | AUTUMN CASHMERE Cardigan | MAVI Jake | ADIDAS Samba |
(NYE/NIGHT OUT) LOOK V PG 106 - 112 | Anna Zaia - LELE SADOUGHI Crystal Pave Drop Earrings | DEEPA GURNANI Helga Clutch | VIRGIN, SAINTS & ANGELS Virgin Cameo Crystal Mesh Choker, Virgin Cameo Large Figaro Necklace 18 + Virgin Cameo Statement Clip Earrings | BCBG Oly Tiered Ruffle Evening Gown | NEVER FULLY DRESSED Black and Cream Coatigan | Benjamin Simic - UNTUCKIT Wool Rawlins Sport Coat + Wrinkle-Free Las Cases Shirt | MAVI Jake |
‘TIS THE SEASON | TEAM CREDITS
PHOTOGRAPHER Paul Farkas | FASHION STYLIST Kimmie Smith | MUA Toni/Ann/Felicia Graham Beauty | NEW YORK MODEL MANAGEMENT Anna Zaia + Benjamin Simic |
PHOTOGRAPHY CREDITS
For this shoot, Paul shot with a Sony Aplha A7R V, Sony FE 50mm F1.2 GM Prime G, Sony FE 24-70 mm F2.8 GM1, Sony FE 50 mm F2.8 Macro Prime, Sony FE 90 mm F2.8 Macro G OSS Telephoto Macro Prime G, and Sony FE 70-200 mm F2.8 GM OSS II. In addition, he used SIRUI Dragon Series Bendable RGB Panel Lights set of 2 of B25R*2 Kit + DJ280.
ATHLEISURE MAG SUMMIT EXCLUSIVE
We had a number of brands that were included in this shoot or supported this shoot and they wanted to make sure that you were able to enjoy purchasing your must-haves with a discount!
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Read the NOV ISSUE #96 of Athleisure Mag and see ‘TIS THE SEASON Editorial in mag.
PHOTO CREDIT | Unsplash/R ARCHITECTURE
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Read the lastest issue of Athleisure Mag.
Watch our THE 9LIST Holiday Virtual Event with SETA Apparel’s Creative Dir., Andrea Salazar. We loved seeing her line and artistry as she competed in Prime Video’s Making the Cut hosted by Tim Gunn and Heidi Klum!
Our Co-Founder/Creative + Style Dir of Athleisure Mag, Kimmie Smith chatted with Andrea to talk about how she got into fashion, her creative process in creating the line, competing on the show, what we can expect from it, showcasing curated NYE looks that we can wear just in time for the ball to drop, and what we can expect with the brand as we head into next year.
Read the latest issue of Athleisure Mag.
Our Athleisure Mag Summit® Series with BÉIS’ SVP, Brand and Creative, Liz Money. We’ve had the pleasure of including their brand in our issues as well as editorials that we have shot.
Our Co-Founder/Creative + Style Dir of Athleisure Mag, Kimmie Smith chatted with Liz about this brand, their assortment, great gifting options, and what we can expect from them in 2024. Find out more about our giveaway which ends on Jan 3rd at 11:59pm ET and click this link which has all the details for you to enter.
Read the latest issue of Athleisure Mag here.
