THE POWER OF PROPER NUTRITION

We’re constantly looking at how we balance between our nutrition and our fitness goals as one has everything to do with the other! We have shared Naked Nutrition as a way to get the nutrients that you need while also being able to enjoy an array of flavors. In terms of Whey Protein, Naked Strawberry Mass is the ultimate muscle building and weight gaining supplement. By combining Naked Whey, Naked Casein, and organic maltodextrin, Strawberry Naked Mass is the perfect blend of fast and slow absorbed proteins, and complex carbohydrates. Each serving contains 1500 calories and 50 grams of high quality protein.

When you’re consuming one of your favorite shakes such as Naked Strawberry Mass, add your fruits and veggies based on the goals that you have for yourself or that you have spoken about with your dietician or nutritionist. Add these into your shake of choice (Naked Nutrition’s shakes have no additives and is made of pure ingredients). By utilizing this combination, you’re able to confidently control what is going into your body as you navigate your workouts and your day.

PHOTO CREDIT | Naked Nutrition

In addition to these shakes, there are other products available at Naked Nutrition such as their Creatine Monohydrate Powder. By using Naked Creatine, this supplement only has one ingredient, pure creatine monohydrate which promotes strength, muscle mass, and improves excercise performance. It dissolves quickly and is rapidly absorbed. It’s also worth noting that this product has no additives. Make sure to take one scoop in 14-16oz of water. When you’re starting out, you can take 3-4 times a day, for 3 days and then just once a day as you continue throughout your fitness routine.

It is essential that as you focus on your fitness plan that you work with a team of individuals that are aware of what you’re consuming and where you are looking to go in terms of toning and gains. By having this team, you can chart your progress and adjust as needed so that you are optimizing your body in all ways possible.

Read the latest issue of Athleisure Mag.

THE 9LIST 9M3NU

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THE 9LIST

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9PLAYLIST | SWEDISH HOUSE MAFIA

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9PLAYLIST | VASSY

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9LOOKS | GUCCI

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IN OUR BAG | FOR A WALK IN THE CITY

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#TRIBEGOALS

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THE WORLD'S STRONGEST MAN 2024

On May 1st - May 5th, the 2024 SBD World’s Strongest Man took place in Myrtle Beach, SC. This competition took place with full stadium seating for attendees to enjoy all of the action that takes place during the competition. This event started back in 1977 and showcases athletes illustrating their commitment and epic feats of strength. Attendees also enjoyed Fan Fest where those without tickets to sit in the stadium area could enjoy food and retail vendors from the Myrtle Beach area as well as activations from official sponsors. They can watch the action via the jumbotron in the picnic area which allowed those in the community to enjoy and be part of it all for free.

We wanted to get some background on this event and chatted with Lindsey Landrum of sports management firm, IMG so that we can understand the history as well as what took place over the days of compeition. We also wanted to share information on some of the athletes that participated as well as they have their own stories, reasons for competing, and lead interesting lives in addition to competing! You’ll find interviews with: Rob Kearney, Eddie Williams, and The World’s Strongest Brothers, Luke and Tom Stoltman (he won this year’s WSM).

If you didn’t attend the event, you can see all the action this July on CBS Sports Network and CBS. Television coverage of the 2024 championship will be broadcast worldwide to more than 70 different countries and territories, totaling close to 500 million households. In the U.S., 2024 SBD World’s Strongest Man coverage will premiere on CBS Sports Network and CBS beginning this summer. Check local listings for the most updated information.

ATHLEISURE MAG: The World's Strongest Man launched in 1977, can you tell us about the ethos of this competition and what it is focused on?

LINDSEY LANDRUM: The World's Strongest Man is the world’s preeminent strongman competition, held annually since 1977. The competition sees the sport’s most dominant strength athletes compete for the title, from pulling trucks and buses, lifting and pressing logs, carrying 1,000 pounds on their shoulders and more - every event is designed to push the Strongmen to their absolute limits, challenging not only their physical strength, but their agility and mental toughness as well.

PHOTO COURTESY | Rich Storry/The World’s Strongest Man 2024

AM: How do athletes qualify to be able to compete?

LL: Athletes qualified for the competition through several different ways. There is the official qualifying series, Giants Live, which takes place across the UK & the US. While there are others that are nominated for the event and chosen from a selection committee.

AM: How does WSM connect to other Strongman competitions that are held in various countries?
LL: WSM connects to the global strongman events as they are all on the map from our WSM selection committee. The competition invites 30 athletes from around the world, so we look at all ranges of strength from every continent to truly find out who the strongest top 30 athletes are to compete head-to-head at World’s Strongest Man.
AM: What does the WSM winner receive?
LL: The World’s Strongest Man winner receives the prestigious title of becoming the “World’s Strongest Man”. This is the pinnacle for the sport of Strongman. They take home the title, the “Barry Frank Trophy” as well as prize money.

AM: What does WSM do throughout the year when this competition isn't taking place?

LL: The World’s Strongest Man takes place over four days of competition each year to determine the winner. While the competition is only four days, our social media platforms are extremely interactive year-round (1M followers on Instagram), CBS/CBS Sports Network is airing in the US in July/August (with re-runs happening year-round of previous years), Channel 5 is airing in the UK from Boxing Day to New Year’s Day and multiple other international broadcast partners airing the coverage around December. Athletes will continue competing at competitions globally to gain their ticket to come back to next year’s World’s Strongest Man.

AM: How does a new event within WSM get added in, as Sandbag Steeplechase was added this year?

LL: World’s Strongest Man is known for having not only some of the heaviest events in history but being one of the most creative events. It’s a competition that is typically held in an outdoor venue and we work diligently with the location to integrate as much of the city/location as we can. For instance, the sandbag steeplechase made it to incorporate sand, since we are competing in Myrtle Beach! Another example would be when WSM was in Botswana and their focus was on elephant conservation. The Stone Carry event that year had extremely heavy stones shaped to look like Elephant heads. Broadcast announcers and emcees at the event were able to help promote Botswana’s focus by discussing this while the athletes were competing. 

AM: Why was Myrtle Beach selected as the site for this year's event, and is there anything that you can tell us about next year's event?

LL: World’s Strongest Man selected Myrtle Beach for the second year in a row after a wonderful partnership began in 2023 with Visit Myrtle Beach and the city of Myrtle Beach. It is a unique destination that allows families to travel in not only for the event, but also as part of a vacation and enjoy the beach and all that the city has to offer. World’s Strongest Man is a family-friendly event that no matter if you are 5 years old or 95 years old, you are impressed by someone who is able to pull a plane or able to press 400+ pounds overhead!

We don't have any news we can share quite yet on next year’s event, but details will be released soon across our social media, including dates of the 2025 event. Follow @theworldsstrongestman on Instagram, @WorldsStrongest on Twitter and @theworldsstrongestman on Facebook, TikTok @TheWorldsStrongestMan, and YouTube @theworldsstrongestman for the most updated information.

PHOTO COURTESY | Rich Storry/The World’s Strongest Man 2024

AM: When did you realize that you loved fitness and sports?

ROB KEARNEY: I started playing baseball when I was young and it was my first love in terms of sports. In High School, when I started playing football, I was introduced to the weight room and lifting weights. From there, I began taking weight training seriously and ultimately made the decision to compete in powerlifting and strongman at the age of 17.

AM: I love that in highschool you played football as well as were a cheerleader during the winter season as well. Obviously, both are very physical. What did you learn from those experiences and what it takes to optimize yourself in both sports?

RK: From both sports I learned that hard work and being a student of the sport is what helps you succeed. It's not always about being the biggest athlete, but learning the best techniques and working hard to perfect those is what will set you apart from other athletes.

AM: When did you realize that you wanted to continue your fitness and athletic journey by participating in strength competitions like the Arnold Pro Strongman World Series you won in 2019?

RK: I did my first Strongman competition in 2009 as a senior in high school. I took last place but fell in love with the nature of the sport and the culture as well. When I attended college, I joined the Powerlifting team and decided to make competitive lifting a priority for me. In 2013, I won the Amateurn National Strongman Championship to turn Pro, and in 2017 made my first appearance at Worlds Strongest Man.

AM: In that same year that you won, you got married and Arnold Schwarzenegger himself celebrated your wedding! What did that mean to you?

RK: In 2019, my husband, Joey and I decided to get married when we planned a trip to Australia for me to compete in the Arnold Australia Pro Strongman World Series. A month prior to the trip, Joey suggested we get married while in Australia, to which I excitedly obliged. I was fortunate enough to win the competition and while receiving the trophy, I told Arnold we were getting married the next day. In an amazing turn of events, Arnold invited us to a chartered Yacht Tour of the City of Melbourne, AUS and dinner that evening after the wedding. It was a surreal experience to be able to celebrate our wedding day with the most influential person in the fitness space.

AM: How do you train to be able to compete in competitions of this nature?

RK: Training to be a strongman takes a lot of time and work in order to achieve the level of strength needed to compete at the highest level in the sport. Being strong in the basic power-lifts (bench, squat, deadlift and overhead press) are the building blocks to be a successful strongman. After that, you have to get experience on the strongman implements such as logs, circus dumbbells, farmers carries, yoke walks and so much more. Building the experience on these movements can be done both in training and competitions. A typical training day will last between 2-3 hours with longer sessions sometimes over 6 hours long.

AM: What does the World's Strongest Man mean to you and why have you been competing in this since 2017?

RK: World's Strongest Man is the Super Bowl of Strongman. It is the pinnacle of our sport and being able to compete at this competition solidifies yourself as one of the 30 strongest men in the world. It is a testament to your hard work and performance throughout the Strongman competitive season. Getting invited and qualifying to this competition is not something to be taken lightly and is a privilege to receive. 

AM: This year you competed, how do you qualify to be at WSM and what were the competitions that you were involved in?

RK: In 2023, I competed at the Giants Live World Deadlift Championships in Cardiff, Wales. In the full competition I tied for 3rd place. Giants Live is the official qualifying tour for Worlds Strongest Man and if you podium at a Giants Live Show, that qualifies you for the following years WSM.

AM: Tell me about the Knaack Tools of a Strongman and what did it mean to you to win this?

RK: Winning the Tools of a Strongman award was really special because it not only is an award that showcases the hard work and dedication of the winning athlete, but it is also voted on by the other competitors. To win an award that is voted on by your peers is really amazing because it shows that they see the hard work, love and dedication I have put into this sport over the past 15 years.

AM: This year is your final year competing as you are retiring, you have a number of accolades from 3X Arnold Strongman Competitor and you won the Car Walk at this year's WSM event, you've written a children's book, you overcame testicular cancer as well - what are you the most proud of?

RK: To be honest, I am proud of a lot of things, but being the First and Only Openly Gay Professional Strongman who led with love and perseverance is something I will cherish. I never shied away from showing my love to my husband, I never shied away from being my full authentic self and was met with nothing but love and acceptance from the Strongman Community. Being a fan favorite and an athlete who showed character can get you just as much as trophies is something I can hold my head high about as I leave the sport as a competitor.

AM: You and your husband opened CrossFit Iron Legacy, tell us about this gym and any other upcoming projects that you would like to share with us!

RK: My husband and I have been involved with Crossfit for years and this year in January, got the opportunity to open our own affiliate. We have been building the gym while also working other full time jobs, but it has been so amazing and rewarding. We have built an amazing community of people who are focused on living healthier, fitter lives while building friendships and having fun! Other than that, I also serve as a coach to HWPO Training, an online training platform where I run the "STRONG" Program, a fitness based strength program for all ability levels. Now that I am done competing as a strongman I am excited to lean into those other business ventures, and stay connected with Strongman both as a fan and a commentator.

PHOTO COURTESY | Rich Storry/The World’s Strongest Man 2024

AM: How did you come to Strongest Man competitions in general?

EDDIE WILLIAMS: There was a local competition that I signed up for, my friends always said how strong I was moving furniture around. So I decided to give it a go. I ended up winning the competition against guys who trained for it. So I decided to pursue the sport from then on! 

AM: What a day like working with you if were to train alongside you?

EW: I normally work all day doing security and then train for 3 hours afterwards. Training looks like, warming up, working up to my heavy sets on the program, event training and then heading home to my family.

AM: You are a 2X Australia's Strongest Man winner and a Southern Hemisphere Strongman Champion, tell us about competing at World's Strongest Man this year!

EW: It’s always the best experience competing at Worlds Strongest Man. I train hard to be able to compete at this level so it’s an honour to be considered one of the strongest men in the world. 

AM: What were your favorite competitions that you were in this weekend?

EW: The Webster stone walk was what I was looking forward to most. I love grip events, and I was able to set a World record for walking with the stones the furthest. The yoke is also one of my favourite events. I was really looking forward to the events that I’m normally weaker at. I’ve done a lot of work the last 12 months and I think I was able to prove to everyone that I’m improving and becoming a well rounded, consistent athlete. 

AM: In addition to you showcasing your strength, you're also known for singing as you were a finalist on Australia's Got Talent and you appeared on America's Got Talent! When did you realize that you like to sing?

EW: When I was about 15 years old, in high school I realised my love for singing. I grew up in a very musical family so music has always been such a big part of my life. 

AM: Are there any upcoming projects that you would like to share that we should keep an eye out for?

EW: Hoping to compete in a few more competitions this year. Other than that just focusing on work and spending time with my family. 

PHOTO COURTESY | Rich/StorryThe World’s Strongest Man 2024

LUKE STOLTMAN

AM: What draws you to Strongest Man competitions?

LS: I was always interested in strength training from a young age. My grandad on my father’s side was a really strong hard working man. There's an old photo of him carrying a log on his shoulder that was a real inspiration for me. My training went from bodybuilding concentrated to strongman later in my 20s when someone suggested I try it, it was instant love, the variety of it and unpredictability and moving these massive implements felt really cool.

AM: You and your brother compete in these competitions and you're known as the World’s Strongest Brothers. You have looked after him as a promise to your mother who passed away from cancer. What does it mean to you to watch him compete and to be able to have this shared experience??

LS: Tom is a phenomenon. I knew that early on from taking him to the gym - everything just seemed easy for him. I knew his potential early on and so did Mum. Whe was his biggest supporter through everything he did. There is nothing that makes me more proud and happier than seeing Tom at the top of the world and being discussed as one of the best to ever do the sport, to overcome what he has done in his life, to be here now is the stuff of Hollywood films and to be there alongside him competing in the same competitions makes it even more special. I may not have as many years left in the sport as him, but right now I'm savoring every moment we have. We are a formidable force together, and we use each other's energy in competitions and training to drive us to achieve as much as we can.

AM: You are a 2X Europe's Strongest Man in 2021 and again of April this year, what did it mean to you to win those titles?

LS: Like Tom getting his title back, it was special for me to know I could still mix it in the big competitions. I had also made a number of changes to my training, employed a new coach, worked to maximize recovery and we worked with a sports psychologist who had a huge impact on myself and Tom this year.

AM: How do you train to optimize yourself in these competitions?

LS: A lot is experience, having the right team around us, and consistently following the plans we make. It’s a real team effort. People might be surprised what it all takes. For example, we work with strength coaches, nutritionist, performance psychologist, clinical psychologist, physiologist, sports massage, chiropractor, on top of this we place a huge emphasis on recovery, which includes hot and cold water contrast therapy, hyperbaric chamber, sauna, infrared therapy, maximizing sleep environment, massage, mobility, the list goes on!

AM: For the World's Strongest Man competition this year, what are your favorite parts of the competition?

LS: I get a real buzz from being in this competition in particular. It’s the comp everyone wants to win and the most prestigious. I've been lucky to compete in nearly 10 WSM competitions, and hopefully a few more to come!

AM: You just welcomed a son, what are the firsts that you are looking forward to with him?

 LS: Hard to describe the emotions and joy Koa has brought. He is a constant source of energy for me and really drives me on to succeed in competition, business and life. I hope to still compete when he is at an age to remember, and just hope I can make him proud.

AM: Are there any upcoming projects that you would like to share that we should keep an eye out for?

LS: World domination! Haha! We are working hard on our business. Unfortunately, the prize money still isn’t great with the sport so we have to rely on sponsorships and we are working to build our brand. We have a clothing line, an online strength training academy, and we perform a number of talks which I particularly enjoy when covering subjects such as elite performance, overcoming adversity, mental health awareness, and our story.

PHOTO COURTESY | Rich Storry/The World’s Strongest Man 2024

TOM STOLTMAN

AM: You and your brother are very close and you're known as The World’s Strongest Brothers. What does it mean to you to be able to do what you love alongside your brother?

TS: We never thought it would be this way from when Luke took me to the gym all those years ago, and sometimes its hard to believe what we are doing for a job. It really is a dream. We are really close too which helps when you spend so much time together! 

AM: What's an average day like for you in training for these competitions?

TS: We train 4-5 days a week and sessions last between 2-5hrs depending on what stage we are at. In the run up to a competition, the event specific training days are the ones that take longer (3.5-5hrs). Recovery and rest is just as important, so we will ensure we have 2 days, usually weekends, off per week. There is a lot of eating too, to maintain our weight (I'm around 185kg) but still burn so many calories in long training sessions. We need to eat a lot! 

AM: What's it like competing against your brother in these competitions?

TS: It’s a real advantage, we have such a strong bond as I've said so I think it can be intimidating for the other competitors to see us together supporting each other between events. It's also really special to be able to do it together, so we try to savor every moment and make the most of it as we never know when our last comp together might be.

AM: What are your favorite events within the World Strongest Man competitions?

TS: All of them! My speciality is the atlas stones, but I don’t like to have favorites as the goal is to have no weaknesses and to embrace whatever events come up.

AM: You are now a 3X World Strongest Man with your win this weekend, you were the first Scottish winner in history with WSM, you're the first athlete with autism to win WSM, and in 2019 you and your brother were the first brothers to qualify for the WSM Final - what does it mean to you to have so many historic moments in this sport?

TS: It's an honor for sure but I try not to reflect on it too much at this stage in my career as I just keep focusing on what's next. I’m proud to be Scottish and win the title, but also where we are from in Scotland, we are from the Highlands, a very remote area, that makes me even more proud and to help show what can be achieved with limited resources and that’s the same with autism. I want people to see that you can achieve great things if you set your mind to it. I also hope to use the platform to educate people on it. There can be a stigma around it and people can call it a disability, and in general not understand it. But in truth, there can be positives about living with autism, and I want to inspire people to see that you can achieve great things. I called it my superpower after winning my first WSM title. At that point, I was no longer the autistic kid that was being held back. I had channeled it to help me focus on achieving my goal of becoming the world's strongest man.

AM: What do you enjoy about competing in WSM?

TS: Winning it! Haha! It’s a historic competition and such a prestigious title. We as a family would always watch it on TV at Christmas time so it's extra special to think back on those times and to be actually competing in the competition now, doing well and hopefully making my family proud too.

AM: How do you relax after coming off of a weekend like this?

TS: It's hard, it's such a buzz, but my team we work with and my family help keep me grounded. I like a quiet life outside the sport - spend time with my wife, walk the dogs and watch football really. That’s one good part of living in the Highlands of Scotland. It's nice and quiet, and beautiful scenery for walks. 

AM: Are there any upcoming projects that we should keep an eye out for?

TS: Very early stages but we are talking to a well known LA film producer about the possibility of doing a film on our life story. That would be pretty exciting if it comes off, although they might struggle to find actors as big as me and Luke!

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HOME IMPROVEMTN MASTERPIECES FOR EVERY HOMEOWNER

In Michigan, homeowners often face the dual challenge of enhancing their living spaces while also ensuring their homes can withstand the harsh, variable climate. From frigid winters to humid summers, the weather can significantly impact the integrity and functionality of a home. Home improvements in such climates not only need to address aesthetic desires but also practicality and durability. By focusing on strategic upgrades, Michigan homeowners can transform their properties into modern sanctuaries that offer comfort, style, and resilience against the elements, making them true masterpieces of both form and function.

1. Revamping the Kitchen

The kitchen is frequently the focal point of any home, serving as a hub for cooking, dining, and socializing. A kitchen remodel can significantly enhance this space's utility and appeal. Upgrading to energy-efficient appliances can save costs and reduce energy usage, while new countertops and custom cabinetry can completely transform the look and feel of the space. Whether opting for a sleek, modern design with minimalist features or a more traditional look with warm woods and classic finishes, revamping the kitchen offers one of the best returns on investment in home remodeling.

2. Enhancing Window Efficiency

Windows play a crucial role in energy conservation, lighting, and the aesthetic appeal of your home. Old, leaky windows can lead to significant heat loss during Michigan's harsh winters, driving up heating costs and reducing comfort. Upgrading to high-efficiency windows can help mitigate these issues. If you're looking for window replacement Kalamazoo offers several reputable providers that specialize in energy-efficient solutions. Choosing the right windows not only boosts your home’s energy efficiency but also its overall curb appeal and value.

3. Luxurious Bathroom Upgrades

Transforming a bathroom into a luxurious retreat can significantly enhance the quality of living in any home. Consider installing features like a spacious walk-in shower with multiple showerheads, a freestanding soaking tub, and heated floors for added comfort. High-end fixtures and elegant tiling can contribute to the room's overall luxury, creating a spa-like atmosphere that increases both the aesthetic and resale value of your home. Smart storage solutions and modern lighting can also improve functionality, ensuring that the bathroom remains both beautiful and practical.

4. Creating an Outdoor Oasis

Expanding your living space to include the outdoors is particularly valuable during warmer months. Michigan homeowners can benefit immensely from adding or enhancing outdoor features such as patios, decks, or outdoor kitchens. These additions are perfect for entertaining guests or simply enjoying quiet evenings with family. Incorporating durable materials and weather-resistant furnishings will ensure that your outdoor living space remains beautiful and functional year after year, despite the challenging climate.

5. Smart Home Technology

Integrating smart home technology is increasingly popular, offering homeowners convenience, efficiency, and enhanced security. Automated systems can control lighting, heating, cooling, and security at the touch of a button or through simple voice commands. Smart thermostats adjust the temperature based on daily routines and weather conditions, optimizing energy use and reducing costs. Similarly, smart security systems provide peace of mind with features like remote monitoring and alerts, which are especially valuable in areas with seasonal homes or high vacation traffic.

6. Eco-Friendly Solutions

Incorporating eco-friendly solutions into home renovations not only benefits the environment but can also lead to significant savings on utility bills. Consider installing solar panels to reduce dependence on traditional energy sources and take advantage of renewable energy. Rainwater harvesting systems and green roofs are other sustainable options that can enhance insulation and decrease runoff, contributing to better water management. Low VOC (volatile organic compounds) paints and sustainable materials like bamboo flooring or recycled glass countertops can improve indoor air quality while offering a stylish and responsible way to decorate your home.

7. Expanding Living Spaces

Adding or transforming existing spaces within your home can provide the extra room needed for comfort and functionality. Finishing a basement or attic, for instance, can create additional living areas, home offices, or entertainment spaces. These expansions not only maximize the usable square footage of your home but can also significantly increase its market value. When planning these renovations, ensure proper insulation and ventilation are in place to make these spaces comfortable and energy-efficient year-round.

8. Updating Flooring

Flooring updates can dramatically change the look and feel of your home. High-quality options like hardwood, engineered wood, or luxury vinyl not only offer durability and ease of maintenance but also add a touch of elegance. For areas with high moisture, such as kitchens and bathrooms, porcelain or ceramic tiles are ideal due to their water resistance. Choosing the right flooring can enhance the aesthetic appeal of your home while ensuring it stands up to the demands of everyday use and the local climate.

9. Custom Lighting Solutions

Effective lighting is crucial for both the functionality and ambiance of your home. Integrating custom lighting solutions can highlight architectural features, improve task lighting, and enhance the overall mood of each room. Options like dimmable LED lights, smart lighting systems that adjust based on the time of day, and statement light fixtures can transform the space. Strategic lighting placement in areas like under cabinets, along hallways, or over dining areas can improve visibility and create a warm, welcoming environment.

10. Adding Artistic Touches

Personalizing your space with artistic touches can make your home truly unique. Whether it’s through bespoke artwork, custom-built furniture, or unique decorative pieces, these elements allow you to express your personal style and enhance the character of your home. Artistic touches can serve as focal points in a room or tie together various design elements, providing cohesion and depth to your interior design.

Conclusion

Home improvements are more than just aesthetic upgrades; they're investments in your comfort and your property's future value. By carefully selecting projects that enhance functionality, sustainability, and style, you can transform your house into a masterpiece that stands out in your neighborhood. Whether you’re upgrading your kitchen, enhancing your outdoor space, or integrating smart technology, each improvement should reflect your personal needs and lifestyle, ensuring your home remains a cherished space for years to come.

PRE-COVERAGE BAR CONVENT BROOKLYN

We go to a number of events throughout the year that involve an array of product and brand launches. It's always great to see what is coming out and those that are involved behind those brands. Bar Convent Brooklyn is in its 6th year and is for the industry professionals from bar and restaurant owners, mixologists, educators, and more to come together. We have the opportunity to to meet brands new and old as well as to try brands. Whether you're hitting the show floor, the Main Stages for education, parties, and more this event really does celebrate the community and you leave wuth a bigger understanding of spirits as well as seeing trends that you'll notice when you're at your favorite spot.

We wanted to sit down to find out more about this event, why it's located in Brooklyn, what it takes to put on this 2 Day event that takes place June 11th and 12th at Industry City and more. We talked with event industry veteran, Jackie Willuams, Event Vice President of RX (the organization that puts on trade events of this nature) to have these questions and more answered!

ATHLEISURE MAG: It’s always great to go to industry events and there are some that we have gone to that we have seen it from its debut season forward! When BCB launched in 2018, we headed to Greenpoint to check out the vendors, programming, education, and parties that took place and then we came back again in that neighborhood in 2019. Now in it’s 6th year, we’re looking forward to attending again in Industry City. So it’s amazing to see how it’s progressed over the 6 years that it has been in existence!

JACKIE WILLIAMS: Yeah, it’s pretty crazy! The fact that it has been 6 years and yet it’s only been 6 years, it’s just you blink and it’s gone!

AM: Before we delve into talking about BCB and this year’s events, I’d love to know about your background and how you came into BCB.

JW: For sure! How did I come to BCB? Well, I’ve worked in the tradeshow world for 18 years. I have been at RX for just over 15 years. I started out in Marketing, I have worked at a ton of our events from jewelry to security, to publishing, and then I ran marketing for all of our consumer events for awhile. And then, when the opportunity came up for BCB, I said, yes sign me up! I was running a different event at the time and the event I was running was the exact same dates as BCB so I would see the pictures online and I was in Manhattan and BCB was in Greenpoint at that time and I was like, man, I want to be able to check that out! I think that this will be my year 4 of running it in Brooklyn and I said, yes absolutely! This is amazing and I was so excited to be part of it. Since then, it has been such a good old time in trying to do a groovy event and keep growing to support the industry. It has been amazing.

AM: We love hearing that story and hearing about your time with RX. We’ve been from the fashion and accessories side attending the JCK shows for as long as I can remember!

JW: Oh yeah! I used to work on the JCK portfolio for a little while.

It’s such a small world in terms of how it all just comes together and is full circle. I used to help out with Agenda and a couple of the other events that we did.

AM: You’re known as someone who does these large scale events. What is your role as an Events Vice President as I know you must have 80 hands going!

JW: I have a lot going on. As the Events Vice President, I do a little bit of everything. I oversee the strategy down to the execution I do have a large team and they are excellent at what they do, right? We have a Registration Manager, a couple of Operation Managers, a Marketing team, and it’s about keeping it together and organized and being able to function as a well run machine. So there is a lot going on and there is a lot going on in my brain at all times. My notebooks are always constantly full. It’s a little bit of everything that I touch.

AM: We can only imagine.

What is an average week like in terms of getting this event together. What is it like when you’re a year out planning the next event, what’s in that month, and what’s that week of life?

JW: Yeah, so – one of the things that I love about doing events is that we don't do the same thing everyday and we don’t do the same thing every week which kind of makes it exciting!

So we actually start more than a year before the next event.

AM: Really?

JW: Yeah, so right now, we’re pretty far down on the logistical side of 2025, we have our dates, we’re finalizing our floorplan, setting up our systems so we’re ready to sell booth space for 2025. We’re working on what our event creative for ’25 is going to look like and we’re zhuzhing it up for what it’s going to look like then.

Immediately following the event is when we get into strategy. We’re looking at the post event surveys that we sent out, doing group conversations with our vendors and our partners, and internally we talk about what we can improve upon. We talk about what went well and we always want to continue to do what we went well on. We also look at where we fell short. How can we come together collectively and make the event better? Whether the registration line was too long and we needed to add more tables – we need to increase our registration space or if people want to see more food offerings – how can we get some more food trucks into the mix? Those kinds of things, every single survey, I read every single word of it. So do a lot of the other members of our team as well. So that year out, we’re looking at diving in to see how we can improve on those things. We continue that as we start selling, hitting the road and talking to customers.

I would say at 4 months out, that’s when things get really crazy! That’s because that is when registration is opening and we’re trying to get all of the logistics for the exhibitor manual, move in time, compliance information, the Certificate of Insurance they need. At this point, it's about finalizing all of the education.

As we get closer, it’s about answering all of the questions whether it’s a customer or someone internal coming up with new ideas or experiences. Right now we’re about a month out and I don’t really sleep much at this point! I just want to be there for our customers and the ramp up to the event and to support our internal team. At this point, I’m just trying to get through all of those emails and phone calls.

A week out, we get to the event and we start building it up from laying down the turf, marking the floorplan, building the registration tent, working with our General Contractor on when we will accept freight, when the floral goes out – our production schedule is an Event Planner’s dream. It’s long, color coordinated, very detailed, but I have an amazing team to help and they are the ones that really deserve all of the credit for their hard work.

AM: Wow it’s intense!

Why was this show created and what was the decision to have it in Brooklyn?

JW: BCB started in Berlin many years ago and it was very small and a couple of bartenders and brands got together and Bar Convent Berlin has really grown to be the largest international beverage event which is amazing. If you haven’ gone, I suggest you do!

AM: It has been on our list.

JW: It’s a very impressive event! So we brought BCB to Brooklyn in 2018. We were working with our counterparts in Berlin to see if this made sense. Do people want this? We had those conversations with our brands and the exhibitors. We spent a lot of time talking with bartenders, owners, influencers, and navigated the landscape of the bar and bev scene in the US. Brooklyn felt like a natural fit, right? NY is an easy place to get to in terms of the States and globally as well. The heart and soul of Brooklyn, the creativity and the culture that is Brooklyn made it make sense for it to be in Brooklyn. So that's where it landed. We were at the Brooklyn Expo Center in 2018 to 2021 which was our last event there and then we moved to Industry City in 2022 and this was just an amazing place! We have been able to grow and connect with the folks that have their businesses there and it’s been a cool vibe!

AM: We’re excited as attending the first 2 years left such an amazing impression. So we can’t wait to check it out this year!

Last Dec, we did an interview with Lynnette Marrero who we know is your Head Educator at BCB.

JW: Oh I love Lynnette! She is amazing!

AM: It was so exciting to be able to talk with her as she’s such an OG in the space and we talked about a number of the places she worked at which was a bit of nostalgia for us as we were going to those spots so it’s interesting how things happen within a period of time.

In her interview in addition to other projects she is involved in, she really drove home the education component of BCB. What are the different things that take place that attendees should be aware of?

JW: For education, we have 4 different stages and they run all day, both days of the event. Our Main Stage is curated by our Education Committee which Lynnette is our Head of Communication, there are 14 sessions on our Main Stage over the course of the 2 days. 13 of them come with your badge and are free and is first-come-first-serve. The 14th one focuses on leadership and that is our Lunch & Learn. That happens on Wed, Alison Anne is hosting that session and it is a separately paid ticket. With that comes access to the session, lunch, as well as gift bags. So we’re really excited to introduce that this year.

We then have 2 other stages called our Liquid Lounges. These are really our brand stages where our brands get up and speak on different topics. But it allows our visitors to have an opportunity to sample. So as XY exhibitor is up there talking about their product, you will get a sample of up to 6 products that you can taste, smell, and see as they’re speaking. So it’s like being able to put liquid to lips during the education. Our last stage is Park Street University which our partners at Park Street, they curate it, they run it, and that stage is located in Building 8 on the 2nd floor and again it runs both days and those sessions are really geared towards the brands, exhibitors, and marketing. So that’s awesome in terms of education.

But we do have other activations that are going on throughout the course of the 2 days. William Grant and Sons is sponsoring our Opening Night Party on Tues night. We have our Welcome Cocktails so as soon as you walk in, Zamora Brand is sponsoring that so that’s the first opportunity once you get through registration. We have our courtyard bars and our new bar on 34th Street. For the 1st time we are also doing an event from 5-7 on Tues that will be located on 34th Street and it’s the BCB Street Party so we will have some live music. There will be some entertainment and an opportunity to sample, mingle, and network with other visitors on Tues.

AM: That is exciting and what a full calendar over those 2 days!

What are 3 events that you’re excited about or 3 events taking place over the 2 days that we should highlight?

JW: So I’m really excited for the Street Party! I think that it’s going to be really cool and different. Who doesn’t love live music and this event will be on Tues from 5-7 and it will feature music and lawn games and a variety of other entertainment! But it’s really about the connections and being able to network.

We have also added the Writer’s Block for the 2024 event. So we will feature 15 or so writer’s over the course of the 2 days and this will be happening in Building 8 on the 2nd floor as well. This will be a unique platform for industry writers to showcase and promote their latest publications as well as to engage with the visitors and to be able to meet and greet, sign and sell their books. It is just a dedicated space to offer an additional experience to the authors and the visitors.

I’m really excited for Alison Anne’s session and I hope that I can make that one as the topic seems amazing! It will be apropos to many of our visitors!

But one of my favorite things is just to be on that show floor! I love being able to see those brands that we know and love to see what their booth is going to look like and what the products will be. I also want to see the new brands and the new launches that are coming out. There are some new products that will be debuting at BCB this year and I am really excited for those! We do have an area called the Emerging Brands Pavilion. It’s an area of 27 brands and they are really first time exhibitors to BCB and they’re new and up and coming. It’s an amazing little area to sample and talk with these brand owners.

AM: That’s one of the best parts is to sample a brand that is starting out! I think it was in 2019, there was a gin brand that was based in Japan and it was a matcha gin. It tasted phenomenal and we got to speak with the owners and I was blown away to be able to learn about them as well as to our favorites that we have enjoyed for years. It’s also fun to see something launch somewhere and then to see it over the next few years in terms of how they have grown.

What are the challenges for you guys in putting on this kind of an event?

JW: There is always a logistical hurdle that we need to find a solution for. Another hurdle is that we always want to do better. We want to put an event together where people have success. We want to do the best that we can for each of those brands. Making sure that we’re communicating things in the best way that we can in the right way so that we can get folks to understand everything that we have going on and that they can get the most out of it. We want them to keep coming back and to continue to foster those connections that they have made. We’re always thinking about how we as BCB can continue assisting in making sure that they feel that they are able to make those connections whether that’s their individual brand or the large scale brand that they work for.

AM: For a brand that has never participated, how do they go about being part of BCB in the future as an exhibitor? Is there a qualification process?

JW: Every part of BCB is qualified. So we actually make sure that all of our visitors are part of the Bar and Beverage community. So we look at every single individual to make sure that they are coming and are a good fit for the event as well as the exhibitors naturally. The best thing to do is to use the form on our site that focuses on those interested in exhibiting. Someone from our Sales Team will get that and follow up with a few conversations. There is a form to fill out after those conversations. I’m also very available and my contact information is at the top of the website and I answer every email that I get so I’m happy to direct them to the right place. But they can come to our website to begin those conversations with us.

AM: BCB takes place over the 2 days, but are there things that you do throughout the year that is not just the tradeshow component?

JW: We go see our customers and we participate at the other BCB’s – there’s Berlin, São Paulo, and Singapore – there are 4 of us. So we do that and we can always pop up in other locations whether that at another event, someone’s office, or a bar!

IG @barconventbrooklyn

PHOTOGRAPHY CREDITS | Bar Convent Brooklyn

Read the MAY ISSUE #102 of Athleisure Mag and see Pre-Coverage Bar Convent Brooklyn in mag.

THE PICK ME UP

Read the MAY ISSUE #101 of Athleisure Mag and see THE PICK ME UP in mag.

ROCK THIS FOR MUCH NEEDED SUMMER FRIDAYS

Read the MAY ISSUE #101 of Athleisure Mag and see Rock This For Much Needed Summer Fridays in mag.

THE BACHELORETTE S21. E0. | MEET JENN TRAN'S MEN?

PHOTO CREDIT | ABC The Bachelorette/Gizelle Hernandez

As we wait for The Bachelorette Season 21, we just got introduced to the 25 men that will be on their journey with Jenn Tran which begins July 8th!

For now, we have the men that we will get to know throughout the summer.

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

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

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

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WHO WE PREDICT WILL GO TO HOMETOWNS

AARON

DAKOTA

MOZE

THOMAS

PHOTO CREDIT | The Bachelor Contestants/Ricky Middlesworth

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THE BACHELORETTE CONTESTANTS

AARON

AUSTIN

BRENDAN

BRETT

BRIAN

DAKOTA

DEVIN

DYLAN

GRANT

HAKEEM

JAHAAN

JEREMY

JOHN M

JONATHAN J

KEVIN

MARCUS

MARVIN

MATT

MOZE

RICKY

SAM M

SAM N

SPENCER

THOMAS

TOMAS

Read the latest issue of Athleisure Mag.

AVOCADO BEAUTY

Read the MAY ISSUE #101 of Athleisure Mag and see AVOCADO BEAUTY in mag.

HOW TO DRESS | AL FRESCO WITH FRIENDS

Read the MAY ISSUE #101 of Athleisure Mag and see HOW TO DRESS | Al Fresco with Friends in mag.

ATHLEISURE MAG ISSUE #101 | CURTISS COOK

In this month’s issue, our front and back cover story is with Showtime star of The Chi, Curtiss Cook. We sat down with him to talk about his approach to acting and how he connects to his characters, the success of The Chi, the importance of mental health and why it is important to him, as well as upcoming projects. We also enjoyed spending time with him in Chelsea at Selina Chelsea Hotel as we shot his cover at Creatures at Selina Rooftop and Music For A While listening lounge with key menswear looks for your next outing.

Earlier this month, we headed to Lifetime Fitness for the unveiling of their 7 Pickleball courts as well as to see legendary 8X Grand Slam Winner and 60 ATP Tour wins, Andre Agassi. We enjoyed a fireside chat with him as well as the founder of Lifetime Fitness, Bahram Akradi. We enjoyed hearing him talk about playing as a tennis star and how he has transitioned to enjoying pickleball. In addition, we were able to watch him as well as fellow pickleball stars Anna Bright, Tyson McGuffin, Collin Johns, and Ben Johns play in a series of exhibition games.

This month, we also caught up with 2x Team USA Swimming Medalist Lydia Jacoby ahead of the Summer Games in Paris to talk about her sport, swimming for the University of Texas at Austin, what her average week of training is like, and what the weeks ahead look like as Paris 2024 approaches. .

We enjoyed Season 1 of Outer Range and with Season 2 available on Prime Video, we enjoyed talking with Showrunner and Executive Producer Charles Murray to talk about how he was drawn to storytelling and why he enjoys doing it. We also talk about how he came to this neo-western and the power of secrets. We also connected with actors Tamara Podemski and Isabel Arraiza in this series to find out about their characters from Season 1 and what we can expect from Season 2.

Part of a story and its characters coming together takes place in its costume direction as it says a number of elements that are not necessarily in the script, but round out the picture! Costume Designer Allyson Fanger has been storytelling through costumes in films and television from Wild Things, 10 Things I Hate About You to Grace & Frankie, Shrinking, Apples Never Fall, etc. We caught up with her to find out how she got into the industry, her journey, how she approaches her craft, the difference between styling and costume design, and upcoming projects. 

We're back for our 7th year as Media Sponsors for PRIDE NYC which takes place throughout the month of June here in NYC. In advance of this, we wanted to share what you can look forward to this year in our pre-coverage and next month we will have more details on events that we attended.

Bar Convent Brooklyn takes place next month Jun 11- 12 as it's a time for those in the bar/beverage, and hospitality industry to come together to meet new spirit brands and sample launches as well. Ahead of us attending the trade show as well as related events, we wanted to connected with the Event Vice President, Jackie Williams to find out how this event came to be, an overview of its 6 years, and what we can expect this year for attendees and exhibitors in Industry City, Brooklyn. Next month, we'll share our thoughts on what we saw and enjoyed so that you can keep an eye out for new brands and launches.

In an already busy June ahead, Governors Ball will return to Flushing Meadows on Jun 7 - 9! We give an overview on what you can expect and what we look forward to as this music festival kicks off the summer season. Next month, we'll share what we saw and who we interviewed in our JUN ISSUE #102.

This month's The Art of the Snack comes from Heritage Grand Bakery, Heritage Grand and Restaurant and Pizza Bar in Bryant Park. We wanted to know more about this eatery that allows you to have a number of options to go if you're ordering from the bakery for breakfast and lunch and bites in between. We also liked knowing more about the restaurant that serves breakfast, lunch, dinner, and is a great happy hour spot.

This month's Athleisure List comes from The Thinking Traveller, luxury rentals villas in Italy and Greece that are perfect for you to truly enjoy your family with the ability to include premium add-ons to personalize your stay. We also have Hot Bones a Detroit wellness studio that has hot yoga as well as pilates! They are also known for their bone broth that guests can enjoy as well for a full holistic approach. 

This month’s 9PLAYLIST comes from EDM group Swedish House Mafia and VASSY. This month we have our 9PLAYLIST MULTI from our cover star, Curtiss Cook who shares songs, books and podcasts/TV/films that he is enjoying. Our 9LIST STORI3S comes from Costume Designer Allyson Fanger who shares her must-haves in beauty, style, and fitness. Our 63MIX ROUTIN3S comes from 2X Team USA Swimming Olympian Lydia Jacoby and actor, Joey Lawrence. This month's THE 9LIST 9CH3FS and THE 9LIST 9B-L-D comes from Chef David Seigal of The Lobster Place, Chef Seadon Shouse of Halifax W Hoboken, and Chef David Rose.

Read the MAY ISSUE #101 of Athleisure Mag.

WAYS TO UPGRADE YOUR HOUSE'S EXTERIOR

Portland, known for its lush landscapes and unique architectural styles, presents homeowners with the perfect backdrop for exterior upgrades. With its wet climate and diverse neighborhoods, maintaining and enhancing the exterior of homes in Portland is crucial for curb appeal and property value. Upgrading your home's exterior not only improves its appearance but also increases its longevity and energy efficiency. Here are some effective ways to enhance your home's exterior, starting with essential updates that can make a significant impact.

1. Fresh Coat of Paint

One of the simplest and most effective ways to upgrade your home's exterior is by applying a fresh coat of paint. This change can instantly rejuvenate the look of your house, making it stand out in the neighborhood. When choosing paint colors, consider hues that complement your home's style and the surrounding environment. Neutral tones like beige, gray, and white are timeless and versatile, while bold colors like navy blue or forest green can add a modern touch.

Proper preparation is key to a successful paint job. Clean the surfaces thoroughly, repair any damage, and use high-quality primer and paint. This not only ensures a smooth finish but also extends the life of the paint, protecting your home from the elements.

2. Siding Replacement

Siding plays an important role in protecting your house while contributing to its overall aesthetic. Over time, siding can become worn, damaged, or outdated. Replacing your siding can dramatically improve your home's appearance and increase its energy efficiency. For residents of Portland siding replacement is a convenient option that can address the specific challenges posed by the local climate.

There are various siding materials to choose from, including vinyl, wood, fiber cement, and metal. Each has its advantages in terms of durability, maintenance, and appearance. Professional installation ensures that the siding is properly fitted and sealed, providing long-lasting protection and a fresh new look for your home.

3. Landscaping Enhancements

Landscaping is a vital component of your home's exterior appeal. A well-maintained garden with plants, trees, and shrubs can create a welcoming atmosphere and enhance your property's value. Start by planning a landscape design that complements your home's style and fits your lifestyle. Incorporate a mix of perennial and annual plants to ensure year-round color and interest.

Consider adding features like flower beds, hedges, and walkways to define different areas of your yard. Mulch and stone can be used to create neat, low-maintenance borders. Regular maintenance, such as mowing, trimming, and weeding, keeps your garden looking its best. Investing in landscaping not only beautifies your home but also provides a relaxing outdoor space for you and your family to enjoy.

4. New Windows and Doors

Upgrading your windows and doors can significantly enhance your home's exterior while improving its energy efficiency. Old, drafty windows and doors can make your home look dated and contribute to high energy bills. Replacing them with modern, energy-efficient models can reduce energy costs and improve comfort.

When choosing new windows, consider styles that complement your home's architecture, such as double-hung, casement, or bay windows. Similarly, a new front door can make a bold statement. Opt for durable materials like fiberglass or steel, and consider adding decorative glass or sidelights for added appeal. Professional installation ensures that your new windows and doors are properly sealed and fitted, maximizing their performance and lifespan.

5. Roof Improvements

A well-maintained roof is essential for protecting your home and enhancing its appearance. Regular inspections and maintenance can help identify and address issues like missing shingles, leaks, or structural damage. If your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan or has significant damage, a replacement might be necessary.

There are various roofing materials to choose from, including asphalt shingles, metal, wood shakes, and slate. Each material has its benefits in terms of durability, cost, and aesthetic appeal. For a cohesive look, choose a roofing material and color that complements your home's exterior. A new or well-maintained roof not only boosts curb appeal but also ensures your home is protected from the elements.

6. Outdoor Lighting

Outdoor lighting enhances the beauty and safety of your home. Properly placed lights can highlight architectural features, illuminate walkways, and create an inviting atmosphere. Consider installing a mix of lighting types, such as pathway lights, spotlights, and wall-mounted fixtures.

Solar-powered lights are an eco-friendly option that requires minimal maintenance. Motion-sensor lights provide security by illuminating areas when movement is detected. String lights or lanterns can add a touch of charm to patios and gardens. By investing in outdoor lighting, you improve visibility, deter intruders, and create a warm, welcoming environment.

7. Driveway and Walkway Upgrades

A well-maintained driveway and walkway enhance your home's curb appeal and provide a safe, smooth surface for vehicles and pedestrians. Cracked or uneven driveways and walkways not only look unsightly but can also pose safety hazards.

Consider resurfacing or replacing your driveway with materials like concrete, asphalt, or pavers. For walkways, options like stone, brick, or stamped concrete can add a decorative touch. Ensure proper drainage to prevent water accumulation and damage. Regular maintenance, such as sealing and cleaning, helps keep these areas in good condition and extends their lifespan.

8. Decks and Patios

Adding a deck or patio expands your outdoor living space and provides a perfect area for entertaining, relaxing, or dining. Decks can be constructed from various materials, including wood, composite, or PVC. Each material offers different benefits in terms of maintenance, durability, and appearance.

Patios can be made from concrete, stone, or pavers and can be designed to fit any style or budget. Incorporate features like built-in seating, planters, or pergolas to enhance functionality and aesthetics. A well-designed deck or patio not only increases your home's usable space but also adds value and appeal.

9. Fencing and Gates

Fencing and gates provide privacy, security, and a finished look to your property. There are various materials to choose from, including wood, vinyl, metal, and composite. Each material offers different levels of maintenance, durability, and style.

Wood fences provide a classic look but require regular maintenance to prevent rot and decay. Vinyl and composite fences are low-maintenance and long-lasting. Metal fences, such as aluminum or wrought iron, offer a durable and decorative option. Gates can be customized to match your fence and provide secure access points. By installing a fence and gate, you enhance your property's privacy and security while adding to its aesthetic appeal.

Conclusion

Enhancing your home's exterior is a worthwhile investment that improves curb appeal, increases property value, and creates a more inviting atmosphere. From painting and siding replacement to landscaping and outdoor lighting, each upgrade contributes to a more attractive and functional home. Whether you're planning to sell or simply want to enjoy a more beautiful living space, these tips can help you transform your home's exterior and reap the benefits for years to come.

PUSHING NEW LIMITS | JENNA WILLIS

Focusing on our health is multi-layered as it's about working out, nutrition, recovering our body, and wellness. By combining these elements together you're on the track to creating a 360 approach to doing what is best for your body.

We caught up with Jenna Willis who is know for her celebrity clientele that includes Liza Koshy (Boo! A Madea Halloween, Transformers: Rise of the Beast, Good Burger 2), Lala Kent (Vanderpump Rules, The Valley, MAY ISSUE #29 cover in 2018) and Camila Cabello. We've gotten to know her through seeing her on Vanderpump Rules as well as on her Instagram.

We wanted to find out how she became a celeb trainer, the impact of fitness on her life, her approach to working with clients, how we can approach our fitness goals, and her upcoming projects.

ATHLEISURE MAG: We’re so excited to talk with you as the first time we became aware of you was when we had Lala Kent as the cover and we shot with her. In her interview we were asking about her physique and how she got to looking so amazing and she was like, “oh my God, Jenna Willis!”

JENNA WILLIS: Oh that’s so nice - so thank you! Truly and it makes me so happy.

I was literally with Lala today training with her as we’re now in her 2nd pregnancy now and we’ve gotta keep her body on track to snap back the day after!

AM: She always looks great and you also have other clients that I’m a fan of like Liza Koshy and I know our readers will love learning more about you and your fitness approach!

When was the moment that you fell in love with fitness?

JW: Wow, you know it’s one of those things where you look back and it all makes sense. But when you’re in it, you don’t realize how impactful it is and how it has pretty much supported me my entire life! I started off doing Tiny Tots Gymnastics when I was 3 years old. So fitness – what’s interesting to me is that fitness is fun! A lot of people forget that. My true ah ha moment, I have actually had 2. I transferred colleges and I went to a school in NY called Wagner College where I was actually the tiniest Division I volleyball player in the nation so I was playing volleyball for this school. I always knew I wanted to move to LA to pursue acting because that was my dream. I was literally like going to my parents saying that I was up and moving and going to LA. They were like, “cool, good luck!” But they also added that I could do that or I could transfer and study whatever I wanted and graduate. So at the age of 19, I packed up a bag, moved across the country with 6 girls that I had never met before – this was back in the day! I was on a call with the girl in LA and she was like, “do you want to move into this house with us for the summer?” I was like sure. I show up and girl, we were sharing a bed for the summer and we had never met in my life – to this day, she is one of my best friends!

AM: Wow!

JW: The point of the story is that I moved to LA, I didn’t know what a sesh is like a Surf Sesh – all of these terms. All of these boys and all of this lifestyle stuff. I was like, I’m just going to live and enjoy extracurricular activities like Beer Pong right? About 5 months in to doing that, this was the first time in my life that I was not exercising. In the middle of a sorority meeting, I was laid out with a panic attack and it was the first time in my life that I had realized that fitness literally saves me. That was the first realization. I think that because it had always been part of my life because I always played sports, I played volleyball in college, and I never realized how impactful it truly was until that moment.

The second time, it was 2015 and I was actually on Vanderpump Rules at that time and I was also on a TV show called, The People v. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story - which was one of the best years of my life and then quickly went to one of the hardest years of my life. I stepped away from Vanderpump Rules, I was engaged to someone for 8 years and then we broke up and that ended, and then my management at the time left the industry and I just felt that I was left with nothing! My fiancé and I had broken up, I was no longer on Vanderpump Rules, and my acting career had not gone the way that I thought it would after booking the OJ series and I went into a very bad situational depression and my anxiety was through the roof and I summoned up the energy to get to the gym one day. I told myself that enough was enough. I go to the gym and I quickly realized that one of the few times out of my day that I felt present, I felt alive and felt good – that was how I became a trainer.

AM: That’s what I was going to ask you, how did you know that this was going to be your career because working out for yourself and knowing what to do for your body is so different than having clients and doing this for them.

JW: Yeah, I mean, honestly you can’t make this shit up! I was going to the gym and I knew I was feeling better. I got a call one day and a friend of a friend from college said, “hey, we need a fitness model for this job.” I thought, I’m not a model, but sure!

AM: I’m not a model, but I am today haha!

JW: This fun day of shooting and doing fitness stuff made me think, “wow, this is really cool!” So I'm going to the gym, I’m starting to workout and I’m feeling better, I’m doing this fitness modeling thing. I’m at the gym one day and I’m working out. Mind you, I’ve been let go from Villa Blanca which is how I ended up on Vanderpump Rules. They were like, “Jenna, you haven’t made a shift in a month.” It was a dream for me to not ever have to go back to a restaurant again and I mean that in the most kindest way, but it was a goal that I had set for myself to try something new in life and to pursue my dream of acting.

I’m at the gym working out and a girl comes up to me and says, “oh my gosh, that move! Do you work here?” I told her no, but that this is how you do it. I kid you not, the next day I go to the gym, I’m on the cable machine, I’ll never forget it doing some chest on my massive non-existent boobs and another girl comes up and says, “woah, you’re really strong, do you work here?” I told her no, but this is what you do. Next day, at the gym, doing something for my butt of course, and a girl comes up and says, “I have really been trying to target the glutes” – she didn’t know what to call it, but I call it the Booty Dimples. Right like that little side part that we all want to focus on and I was hitting that real hard and she was like, “my gosh that move! Do you work here?” I’m not kidding, I looked at her and I said, “yes, I do!” I was like how can I help you? Then I helped her and I let her know that I didn’t really work there, but I went home and I was 30 at this point and I was like, if I have ever gotten a message in my life, this is it!

I went online and figured out the certification that I needed to get and which one I was going to do. I completed my certification in 2 months and it was a goal of mine to hit the ground running in 2017 and I got certified as a trainer and in CPR First Aid and I hit the ground running.

It changed my life! Yet again, fitness changed my life on a whole other level. I will tell you 1 thing. When I was 9 years old, I went to see a musical, The Newsies and I was sitting in the audience and I had this feeling of euphoria and that’s when I knew I wanted to be an actor because I wanted to give people the same thing I feel right now for the rest of my life. I get to do that now with training. I get to make people feel amazing. So you put the dots together and you get this path together! Now, there’s a lot of road there and there’s going to be a lot of bumps on that path.

AM: Oh yeah!

JW: It makes sense.

AM: It will be a mix in terms of result and what happens along the way. So it’s amazing that you found it and made it make sense.

JW: It’s been really cool and what I will say is when I made that decision from being on Vanderpump and being in that world some what – all of the girls got very excited. Lala was literally like, start training me.

AM: You were just on an episode the other week of the current season.

JW: Yeah! So that’s so cool, well it’s full circle as I get to go back and I can train them on the show. It’s so cool!

AM: It’s amazing, you have trained her, Camila Cabello, Liza – you have has so many amazing people. How important is that client to trainer relationship? What are you looking for when it comes to deciding to train someone as a client?

JW: You know what’s funny? It’s such an intimate relationship to train someone. What someone looks for in me is what I am also looking for in them. Which is a partnership and the ability to go through thick and thin together as well as the high and lows with one another – there will be both. I am definitely a supporter kind of trainer. We’re going to laugh in our sessions and you’re as sure as shit going to feel the burn and hate me a little bit. But the session will be over and you’ll be like, wow that went fast! I think that that’s what a client looks for. You’re hanging out in very strange circumstances and in those circumstances, you’re going to feel the burn, you’ll hate me a little, but then you will love me because you walk away feeling amazing.

AM: How would you describe your fitness method?

JW: My whole thing is that I have always been the weird kid and my thing is that we should embrace the awkward of fitness. I grew up an athlete, I have 3 older brothers, I had to be an athlete, I had to defend myself. My whole philosophy is to make fitness tangible and fun and something that can be done anywhere and anytime truly. People get so caught up in the major overhaul of life and what I like doing is to make it part of life.

AM: So for those just starting this journey, what would be the focus that they should be looking at or maybe beyond the goal of what it is that they want to do?

JW: Totally, there’s a few things that I recommend right off the bat. Start walking! It sounds so simple, but it makes such a difference. Once you create a routine of just getting up and walking outside, you’re creating that window to move - you release those endorphins and serotonin to move. You’re awake and your body doesn’t feel as tight. When you realize that your body is moving and that you’re getting that energy, you’re more motivated to want to take it to that next step. I always say the 5 mins rule. Sometimes, you just need to get to the gym. You show up, you get to that treadmill for 5 mins and you can leave. It’s all about creating a habit or a routine.

Another thing that I like to do for someone who is just getting started is a calendar program. Look at your calendar for the week and the meetings that you have to go to – those things that you cannot move and schedule 20 mins in between whether that’s in the morning, your lunchbreak, or right after work. Because when you build it into your schedule, it doesn’t feel overwhelming.

AM: Makes sense as you literally see it in your calendar and you feel horrible clicking it off of Google calendar.

JW: That’s exactly right – it’s accountability!

The other thing that I love is just to find something that you enjoy! You know, some people feel that fitness has to be in the gym and lifting weights, I do it and I live for it. But not every person wants to do that. Maybe it’s that weekly dance class – it’s that one commitment that doesn’t feel overwhelming and that it’s social.

AM: How do you approach those that do have a specific goal that they’re looking to achieve in their workouts? Maybe it’s a wedding, an anniversary, reunions, etc? They’re looking at a set time and a set place where that goal is able to actualized.

JW: So that’s when I get a little more intense. If someone has a very specific goal, we talk about what that is, we look at the timeframe, and we break it down to what will truly heed results in that length of time. I am talking about a meal plan and a workout plan. Everybody is different. It also depends on the timeframe that we have.

AM: How important is the nutrition and recovery plan. What are all the things that people should be thinking about when it comes to a workout session on a given day and over time?

JW: Wellness. Truly and when I say wellness, I mean mind, body, spirit, and soul – all of that. I think that the goal for me with any of my clients is to create a program that is sustainable and enjoyable because if it doesn’t have those aspects, it won’t continue. I never want to feel like I am having to overhaul someone’s life. That’s not fun. It’s picking small goals that heed big change. Little things like the way that you eat your meals makes such a difference. People don’t realize that you start with your veggies – it creates a block so that you don’t get that glucose spike and it prevents having those crashes in the afternoon. Then you move to your fats and your proteins and you finish with your complex cards. It’s little tips and tricks that make a huge difference. All of a sudden, you’re not eating as many of those snacks or craving those foods because you are satiating your body in other ways.

AM: How can we make sure that you’re establishing achievable goals as you’ve been talking about? Because I also have those friends who feel they have a goal and a plan, but in life, what they’re going for would not be able to happen whether the goal is off or the time allowed doesn’t make sense.

JW: Exactly, this is my philosophy. Anything that seems too good to be true, it probably is. And anything that comes so easy, goes easy. I truly believe that. A healthy amount is a pound a week and that’s an aggressive weight loss plan. If you are doing that, you are doing incredible. Anything over that, you’re kind of traumatizing the body to some degree and I hate to say that and to use those words.

AM: Well, it’s shocking the body.

JW: When people are leaning into taking things or doing things where this aggressive weight loss is happening, you can be losing muscle mass, you’re stressing your hunger, and how are you supplementing that to then create longevity?

I’m not just promoting myself so even if it’s not you working with me, maybe you are doing Pilates – you’re allowing your body to be supported and to create a strength for itself during that process. When you do go off of it, you’re still in a healthy mindset that will still support your mind and body.

AM: For those that may not be able to work with your 1:1. Tell us about Don’t Sweat It Alone! I love that everything in your world is so bright and approachable as there are a number of methods or trainers that sometimes have a very different look to their site and their approach and for some people that can be a bit too much for them.

JW: Yesss! Thank you for saying that and I really do appreciate that!

Just going back for a moment on what we were talking about before, if you’re just starting out – you may want to consider breaking up your workout. For some people that only have 20mins like a lot of my clients are working moms. That’s a busy job and 20mins is better than no minutes. If you’re waiting to have that block of an hour, you may tell yourself you don’t have it today, but you will do it tomorrow, and then it just keeps happening and ultimately, you never worked out. Give yourself some grace and set that timer for 20mins, that’s time you put in for yourself, you nourished your body and gave it what it needed.

AM: I agree even for myself, I prefer to workout at 8am and be done by 9am, but then I may have a day of meetings, editor appointments, interviews, creative, etc – I know I will catch up with it again later in the day, and won’t let the day go on without it. But it can be tough as sometimes things start moving.

JW: I love that! That’s how I operate it and not everyday will go the way you want it to. Sometimes schedules are crazy and that is ok!

AM: You do the best you can, my newest component has been meditation as I have found that just as necessary as working out my body. I am not someone who likes to sit for a second in silence, but when I am in the meditation groove that follows after my workout, I can do it.

JW: You’re inspiring me – like meditation and affirmations is part of every morning of mine, but I would say that meditation is the one that I struggle with the most. So you're inspiring me right now so we're always a work in progress.

AM: You have to find what works for you. I use Hyperice’s Core App and the fact that they break down the sessions to whether you’re feeling anxious, whether you want to be moved by music, or to have guided meditations, I have the group of instructors that I enjoy listening to and if I’m pushed for time I can find the one that is where I am at mentally within the time frame that I have to give.

JW: Do you ever do the nose breathing thing?

AM: Yes! I love Breathwrk App!

JW: Oh my gosh! It’s so good and if I’m having a crazy day, there are some days that you’re just not here! If I do that one technique, it’s like, “hey, I’m back!”

My Don’t Sweat It Alone, what’s really beautiful is that the only blessing in COVID that I experienced is that it gave me the ability to reach anyone all over the world. So what I do is that you don’t sweat it alone. I offer online programming, personalized month-to-month plans, and meal plans to anyone in the world. I’m also certified as a life coach as well through Jay Shetty, do you know him?

AM: Yeah!

JW: So, that’s a buddy of mine. I also do live check-ins as well. So you can be anywhere in the world and still have access to me. I call it the Power Hour and a member can sign on during that time and we set goals for the week, we talk about SHREDS – how’s your Sleep, how’s your Hunger, your Rest, your Energy, and your Digestion? We go over everything and go live every Monday and Friday with my HIIT workouts.

AM: I like that SHREDS thing and I’m all about gut health.

JW: It’s so important!

AM: During the pandemic, I also took time to really focus on my sleep and to change some things in that area as well. I feel it’s way more optimized then it was before. I still have moments that aren’t great, but it’s so much better than what it was before.

JW: I love that!

AM: Are there any retreats that you have coming up?

JW: Yes!!! Oh my gosh! Thank you for asking me! I’m a work horse.

AM: Same!

JW: Girl, of course you are! Look at what you’re doing. Teach me your ways!

I did my first retreat and because I’m a work horse, I had such a hard time stepping away truly. So I thought how could I step into my work while also exploring the world to do what I love? I got an opportunity last year to partner with a friend of mine and we did a wellness retreat in Bali. We called it Balanced to Bali and it was amazing! It was 6 nights/7 days, there were workouts every single day, yoga, meditation, it was so incredible and then I traveled before and after. It was such a hit, so euphoric, and so beautiful. I just announced Elevated in El Salvador 5 nights/6 days in El Salvador Dec 22nd – Dec 27th. It’s on the black sands of El Zonte. I am so excited. I have always wanted to explore Central America and to get down there that way. I can’t wait. I have been looking for a place and there is a beautiful and quaint resort right there on the ocean there will be yoga every single day and sound baths!

AM: The retreat seems amazing!

Obviously this can be different for everyone, but what are power and energy foods that when we’re running around and don’t want to snack idly and we want to put nutrients in our bodies intentionally – what are things that you suggest that we should have?

JW: Oh, I love this! Anything that supports the system more than process foods. I know that that is a very vague answer. But I can share some of my personal favorites – roasted chickpeas.

AM: We're such a fan of them!

JW: I love them – they’re just natural from the Earth, it’s a true whole food ingredient – it has the good fats, some carbs, great fiber – talk about what’s great for our digestive system! So, many great things, in one food! Another one that I enjoy and not everyone eats beef but grass fed beef sticks is absolutely amazing. Hard Boiled Eggs! It’s one of the best snacks that you can have! Protein bars are great and they are a great alternative to a protein bar, but I always say, look at the ingredients in those protein bars because a lot of time there is a lot of fillers and processors in those bars that we don’t even realize. Raw trail mix – I geek out. Some people geek out on wine tastings and don’t get me wrong, I love that! But I geek out on creating my own trail mix!

AM: Oh that’s so smart! Because then you know exactly what’s in it.

JW: Almonds are great or even pistachios.

AM: I’m ok with pistachios. I’ve also been someone who loves customizing and personalizing a number of things from clothes, office supplies etc, and a number of my foods – never thought to extend it to trail mix!

JW: Oh my gosh put a little goji berry in there and a little dark chocolate!

AM: Love both of those too!

JW: You have to live a little bit here right? We don’t want anyone miserable – it’s about healthy choices 80% of the time!

AM: You also have resistance bands! I love and I think it’s so great. I always have a set in my luggage so no matter which bag I take with me, I have them with me when I’m traveling. Do you foresee expanding your brand into a workout line or more devices and gear?

JW: Girl, that’s the dream and we’re living in it. Yes, 100%. I have had some merch in the past. I have had requests to bring it back and I was so excited to bring these pink bands out with my slogan, Get Sweaty. I just like it because to be honest, I’m so inappropriate and I’m ok with who I am. Get Sweaty just means so many things and that’s why I love it so much! The dream is to come out with more products and I definitely have aspirations when it comes to that. Nothing that is locked in that I can share.

AM: I can so see it and how the brand lends itself to being able to hammock so many things.

Are there any projects that you’re able to share that you would like for our readers to know?

JW: Anyone who is looking for any kind of fit tips or workouts, I share those. I have more videos launching with PopSugar which I am very excited about, Fabletics is a great partnership of mine.

IG @msjennawillis

PHOTOGRAPHY CREDITS | JENNA WILLIS

Read the APR ISSUE #100 of Athleisure Mag and see PUSHING NEW LIMITS | Jenna Willis in mag.

INDULGE YOURSELF AND ME TIME | JOSIE NATORI

When we began working in the fashion industry, there are a number of memories that we will never forget that allowed us to see the work of those who have brands that focus on the importance of heritage and artistry. One of our NYFW experiences involved a stunning runway show that showcased dramatic crisp white shirts with architectural collars and accessorized with belts and earrings. We also attended an intimate fragrance launch at her home where she not only played piano for us, but allowed us to see how her brand is truly one that runs seamlessly in your life beyond just what one wears on one's body. Josie Natori is the epitome of refined style, luxury, and the ultimate in self-care.

We sat down with the Founder and Chief Executive of The Natori Co. in her offices in NYC to talk about being a child prodigy in piano, how she climbed the corporate ladder at Merrill Lynch, and how her passion for creativity led to her launching her namesake company which includes a number of coveted labels, and the importance of having brand authenticity and integrity.

ATHLEISURE MAG: It is such a pleasure to see you again! We met many years ago!

JOSIE NATORI: Yes, you were at one of my fragrance launches, I don’t remember which one it was.

AM: Yes it was awhile ago and it was such a beautiful event as I was able to hear you play the piano, and you hosted it at your home. I have been such a fan of the brand for so long so it’s amazing to be here now to talk to you!

When did you realize that you loved fashion and wanted to design?

JN: No, I never said that I wanted to design. I loved fashion, when you grow up in the Philippines, you love clothes. So it was never a dream or an aim or a goal. It was a total accident as it was not something that I would have thought about.

I started out in Wall Street for 9 years and it was a great business to be in. But then I also had this artistic background as a pianist as I had been playing since I was 4 and that creative and artistic aspect as well. I never dreamt of nor wanted to and I don’t like to be called a clothing designer. I’m an artist and a businesswoman. I like beautiful things and I have figured out how to do them.

AM: What do you love about playing the piano?

JN: It’s kind of second nature. You’re born, you dance, you play, you sing, you dance, you act, and my mother, she was also a pianist. So everyone had to play an instrument, you didn’t question it – you just did it. I started playing when I was 4, I performed concerts and at the age of 9, I played solo with the Manila Philharmonic Orchestra. Thank God that I did it and I love to play the piano because it’s a great way for me to express myself through the piano.

AM: That really nice.

You came to the US and attended Manhattanville College with your focus in Economics and you’re such a trailblazer, as you climbed the corporate ladder at Merrill Lynch in the 70s.

JN: Yes, I was the first female VP of Investment Banking at Merrill Lynch.

AM: Well what did it mean to you to have that position especially as a woman?

JN: You know what, when I was on Wall Street, that never really occurred to me. Growing up in Manila, I came from a place with strong matriarchal society where the women were very strong. My mother was an entrepreneur, my grandmother was also a businesswoman. I never questioned that. So when other people would look at what I did and say how unique it was, for me I never had that as an issue, I never confronted it, I didn’t worry about it, I just did it. I know that those looking at me felt that as a woman and a minority, I checked 2 boxes, but I never saw it that way. I think that I was just at the right place at the right time and I think that with my background and my upbringing, I had no fear.

AM: What took place for you to transition from being in finance and doing well, to move on to fashion?

JN: Yes, I got bored after being there for 9 years and I came to the decision that I had no desire to be the President of Merrill Lynch. It’s not that I was given that opportunity, but I knew that that wasn’t something that I wanted. I felt that I had climbed the mountain, and I woke up in the morning and I felt that I didn’t have -

AM: That fire.

JN: Yes. So I always knew that I would have my own business because my grandmother is entrepreneurial, my father started his business and he was a self-made man. It was only a question of what business. Then Ken and I got married and I was thinking of what business we could do. We explored a brokerage firm, but we didn’t have the resources and it wasn’t the right time in the Stock Market. So I started exploring and thinking about other businesses like opening up a McDonald’s and other ideas. But it was just by accident that the business of import/export in the Philippines came up. Not in a million years was I thinking about design, it was about the trade of product. It evolved and I was really fortunate and the left brain and the right brain aligned. That’s what was missing. Wall Street had made me work in one way and there is a lot of creativity in that field that people find exciting, but for me, it was boring. In terms of finance I did enjoy making the deals. But in fashion you’re making deals and also working with product. It was exciting and I have always enjoyed fashion, I’m a shopaholic.

AM: What was your vision initially when you first launched the label?

JN: There was no vision, it was just buying and selling. It was just me seeing items and purchasing it and you just keep going. It was only later on when I brought in an embroidered blouse to a buyer and she felt that it would be great as a sleep shirt and so that was lingerie. At the time, lingerie was either lewd or frumpy. So I was lucky that I was able to get into that area and I was also very persistent and I learned on the job!

AM: It’s the best way to go about it sometimes.

JN: No one taught me.

AM: Looking at your brand today, you have a number of labels. What is your process in deciding what pieces will go with what portion of the label and the corresponding design?

JN: I think that over the years we have been fortunate to be able to have some tiers because you have Josie Natori which is the most luxurious, distinctive, and most expensive label and that’s not for everybody and it’s available at Saks in terms of its distribution. Natori is more everyday and it’s at Dillard's and N Natori at Von Maur. It’s for that day-to-day life. We also have Josie which is a bit dormant right now, but it is for that younger customer. We’re just really fortunate to be able to have that a brand that has different tiers and also includes various categories. I think that we have something to offer for everyone. Whether you’re buying a caftan for $6,000, $900, or $198 you see the difference in materials, but the integrity of the brand is there.

AM: I have had the pleasure to wear some of your caftan dresses from Josie Natori and they are the most stunning and beautiful pieces to wear.

JN: Thank you!

AM: One of the things that I like so much about your lines is that you do have a number of licensees and categories that are within the brand. What is your process in terms of how you decide on including accessories, home goods, candles, fragrances, etc?

JN: Well, I think that it was after 5 years. You know, you’re not really a brand until the customer tells you so. When the customer tells you, that’s when you can look at things differently and Natori really is a state of mind. There is a whole philosophy about it. I thought that the brand is about feeling good and there is a sociological element about the brand and there is also a design element. The brand is about having feel good products and being true to yourself as well as feminine. Then there is the actual aesthetic of the design which is the East-West and the modern aspects of it and you can see it in a number of the pieces that we have. It is about bringing art into life.

But when it comes to products, I’m not going to do pots and pans, that doesn’t relate to the brand. We’re focused on the inside and out as well as head-to-toe. Because you can create that East- West in so many places in the home and under the covers. A feel good brand means you’re going to think about fragrances, fabrics, and what makes you feel good. As a brand, I think that we have a point of view and that’s what makes us distinctive and there is also that psychographic where when you buy Natori, it’s a gift to yourself. It’s about feeling feminine, loving yourself, why not? It’s indulgence.

AM: One of my favorite bras is actually from your line as it’s a T-Shirt style super light and comfortable while feeling luxurious. It’s always easy to wear and I agree with you on how the brand inherently has that feel good nature about it.

In looking at the collections that you have, it allows that woman to go out to for a night on the town, to work, to being casual and to really navigate her life. What would be 3 pieces that are essential across your whole brand or for each individual label?

JN: That’s really hard and you know, my philosophy is that we make clothes that make you feel good, feminine, comfortable, elegant, and stylish. But where you wear it, that’s your decision! I’m not telling you what to do! Some people like to take our slip dress and wear it to sleep in, but someone else is wearing it to go out in. So for me, it’s a range of possibilities and a point of view. It’s a sensibility of how you dress you know? It’s a statement, it’s feminine, and to me, it’s about wearing it wherever you want!

In terms of pieces, you want to have that great foundation, so you want to make sure that your underwear is comfortable. Then you have those options of wearing a caftan, or a lovely kimono or a dress. Of course, there’s accessories and it’s hard to point out just one as there are so many options! To me, the items that are closest to your skin are the most important as opposed to what’s outside.

AM: I couldn’t agree more!

There was a runway show that you did years ago and I know my mom and I attended this show. Most of the looks were dynamic white crisp shirts paired with your accessories. I just remember seeing beautiful collars, elements of Geometria, and belts – it was just stunning.

JN: Oh great!

AM: It was like a Dynasty moment which I am a huge fan of as I love the glamour and drama that came through with the way that the characters were styled on that show.

JN: I am very proud of the artistry that we have created for this brand and the handwork comes from the Philippines. We have been able to bring that craftsmanship to our collections and it’s about bringing the best of the past and to apply it to modern luxury whether it's on your body or your bed. I just think that we deserve it. We work so hard on this Earth!

AM: Where do you see the brand going whether it’s collaborations or big product launches that we should keep an eye out for?

JN: We are fortunate that we have built a following and a customer base and we have never taken that for granted! We need to continue to be relevant to the next generation. We want to continue only do the categories that relate to the brand and we always have to think about who our customer is. Each generation is different and I am always thinking about who we can speak to what they are looking for and what makes sense for who we are. We can’t be stuck. My son is the President of Natori and we’re always looking forward and keeping things fresh.

AM: What does it mean to you to have Natori as a member of the CFDA?

JN: Obviously, it’s a wonderful organization that really showcases and supports its members and it’s great to have a voice and I appreciate that. I don’t really consider myself a designer, but I think it is important to be involved whether it’s hosting a function/event, to mentor as well as to advise and to have that representation.

AM: Absolutely.

What are you the most proud of in terms of what you have done with this Empire?

JN: Well, it’s not an empire number 1.

AM: I think it is a big deal to be around as long as you have with your distribution channels, licenses and being a multi-million dollar brand. To start as a sleepwear/lingerie brand and to have an array of celebs like Lady Gaga, Kate Beckinsale, and Rose Huntingon-Whiteley wearing your labels.

JN: I have to say that we are very proud. There aren’t too many brands, I don’t think that have lasted this long and are independent. So I feel that that is something that my family is very proud of. My son Ken taking over as President, but I’m not retiring anytime soon! I’m getting close to 77, but I don’t feel old you know? It’s really a mindset to me and I think young! When I’m traveling with our team, sometimes they say, “can we rest?” and I say, “what do you mean rest? It’s time to go!” They are more than half my age. So it’s fun and I think that we are just proud that we are able to build this brand and we are proud of the connections to the Philippines because I think that without my Asian heritage, and I am very proud about that, it is what distinguishes me and it is my point of differentiation to bring that heritage and background and to bring the essence of that in an art form into our prints and patterns is great to add and to infuse in our modern way of living. It’s been an exciting journey you know? We’re known for our prints and I think that being able to have that distinctive point of view we are proud of what we have offered and continue to do. We are proud of being a privately held and family owned company. But, there is no sitting on your laurels. It’s a very tough environment and we’re just navigating that is the business climate is different and has its challenges. But it’s exciting when you’re doing this and to see what you have built and will continue to do as you evolve and to present yourself the way that you want to present yourself. There is freedom in being able to do that. I’m proud of that and I think the real test is that I want the brand to live beyond me. It has to keep on going and we can’t bastardize the brand. I’d rather keep the brand like this and to have integrity which is important to me.

AM: You have been such a trailblazer and it has been such an honor to have you talk with us about the brand so that we can share with our fans and readers of Athleisure Mag!

JN: I’ve looked at your magazine and Athleisure doesn’t mean that you’re just wearing the sweats, track suits, or activewear. I think the term and how you present it is redefining it. Natori is a way of dressing. It’s a way of dressing that’s feminine, glamorous, statement, full of color, happy, and it feels good. It’s a mindset of how you want to be whether I’m relaxing and reading the paper on the couch. Athleisure is my time! It’s me time! That’s why Natori is about buying for yourself! You can buy it and afford the pieces that you want and I think it is interesting!

IG @natori

@josienatori

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY | Natori

Read the APR ISSUE #100 of Athleisure Mag and see INDULGE YOURSELF AND ME TIME | Josie Natori in mag.