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PHOTO CREDIT | Design by Freepik
Many families have found themselves disillusioned with timeshares. Expectations often fall short of reality, leading to frustrations and regrets. The allure of committed vacation spots wanes over time, presenting parents with the tedious task of managing fees that seem never-ending. On the other hand, regular travel offers flexibility that is hard to match. Exploring new destinations each year keeps everyone excited.
Regular travel allows families to experience diverse cultures, foods, and activities. This variety can be a rich source of education and bonding. Unlike timeshares, which often tether families to the exact location, regular travel opens up endless possibilities. Families can choose destinations based on their current interests and needs. This adaptability can lead to more satisfying vacations and improved travel and mental health for all family members by allowing them to explore new places and experiences tailored to their evolving needs and preferences each year.
Financially, regular travel can be more economical. While timeshares may promise savings, unexpected costs often crop up. With regular travel, families can hunt for deals and choose accommodations that fit their budget at any given time. This can make for a stress-free planning experience, unlike the rigid schedules and fees associated with timeshares. Regular travel stands out as the better option for families seeking a more dynamic and cost-effective way to vacation. Additionally, regular travel avoids the long-term commitments and maintenance fees associated with timeshare ownership. Thus, embracing regular travel can provide a more enriching and flexible vacation experience for families looking to make the most of their time and money.
Understanding how it works and comparing the costs and benefits is crucial for those considering a timeshare. This section will delve into the commitments involved and weigh the advantages and drawbacks.
A timeshare is a property with shared ownership. Each participant gets a specific period, usually one or two weeks per year, to use the accommodation. Owners pay maintenance fees yearly that cover upkeep, management, and taxes. These fees can vary widely depending on the property's location and amenities.
Contracts can be complex, often locking owners into long-term obligations spanning decades. Transfers or resale options usually come with fees and complexities, making it difficult to exit the agreement. Additionally, the money spent on those weeks is wasted if the property is unused during the designated period. Some owners find flexibility a significant issue, as timeshare schedules are sometimes rigid, complicating spontaneous travel plans.
Understanding the precise terms and conditions in the agreement is essential. Prospective buyers should closely examine these details to avoid unexpected commitments and fees. It's also beneficial to consult with a legal advisor before finalizing any timeshare contract to ensure all terms are clear and agreeable.
Timeshares can be more cost-effective than paying for hotel stays annually. The upfront cost is a lump sum, followed by annual maintenance fees, which, over time, can be cheaper than booking hotels during peak seasons. This financial predictability can benefit families who vacation regularly.
On the downside, the initial purchase price can be significant, and resale value tends to depreciate rapidly, unlike traditional real estate. Maintenance fees can also increase over time, adding to the long-term cost. While some timeshares offer exchanges allowing owners to trade their allotted time for different locations, these programs often have additional fees and require planning well in advance.
In contrast, regular travel offers flexibility and no long-term commitment. Travelers can freely choose destinations, accommodations, and travel times, often taking advantage of last-minute deals and promotions. Additionally, the variety in accommodations—from budget hotels to luxury resorts—can cater to different travel preferences and budgets.
Understanding these financial impacts and lifestyle implications helps families decide whether a timeshare is the best option compared to regular travel.
When comparing timeshares to conventional travel, weighing each option's benefits and drawbacks is essential. Timeshares provide the security of a prepaid vacation and the comfort of returning to a familiar place, often with luxurious amenities. However, they come with annual maintenance fees and long-term commitments that can take time to exit. Timeshares can be a good fit for those who enjoy consistency and returning to the same destination. If you find that the constraints of a timeshare no longer suit your needs, understanding the cancellation process can be beneficial. Resources like how to cancel my timeshare can guide you through the proper steps to terminate your ownership and regain flexibility when planning future vacations.
On the other hand, conventional travel offers families greater flexibility, allowing them to explore different destinations without being tied to one location. This option can be more adaptable to changing schedules and travel preferences. Regular travel can strengthen family bonds by providing diverse experiences and opportunities to discover new cultures. Additionally, it can lead to cost savings by allowing families to take advantage of travel deals, off-peak pricing, and varied accommodations that suit their budget. Each benefit provides unique advantages that make regular travel appealing over timeshare commitments.
Regular travel allows families to choose destinations and dates based on their preferences and schedules. Unlike timeshares, which often have fixed locations and dates, regular travel allows exploring new places each time. This variety can make vacations more exciting and tailored to the family's interests. Families can take advantage of off-peak travel times, finding accommodation and flights that best suit their budgets and timing. Additionally, the ability to select different types of accommodations—from hotels to vacation rentals—adds to the customization of travel experiences. This flexibility ensures that each trip can be a unique adventure suited to the family’s desires and needs.
Travelling regularly can significantly enhance family bonds. Shared experiences during travel create lasting memories and strengthen relationships. Unlike the repetitive nature of returning to the exact timeshare location, exploring new destinations can lead to fresh adventures and learning opportunities for everyone. Activities like hiking, visiting museums, or simply relaxing on a beach together provide quality time away from daily routines. These shared moments are invaluable for family cohesion. Furthermore, encountering different cultures and landscapes can be educational and enriching, helping family members grow closer through shared understanding and experiences. Regular travel ensures these bonding opportunities are diverse and engaging, avoiding the monotony that might come with returning to the same spot each year.
Regular travel can be more cost-effective than owning a timeshare. Families can allocate their budget more flexibly without the need for significant upfront investment. Travel deals, discounts, and rewards programs can significantly reduce costs. Booking flights and accommodations strategically during sales or using loyalty points can offer substantial savings. Moreover, there are no recurring fees, such as maintenance costs, which are familiar with timeshares. Families can also choose less expensive destinations or accommodations when necessary, allowing them to manage their finances better. This financial flexibility makes regular travel a more economical choice, providing high value without the long-term financial commitment that timeshares require.
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PHOTO COURTESY | A&W Restaurants, Inc - A&W, America’s oldest fast-food restaurant, began serving Root Beer to WWI veterans in 1919
This year, A&W Restaurants is celebrating their 105th Birthday and they are doing it with Granfluencer, Baddiewinkle along with a great deal for one of the greatest generations. One of America’s oldest franchises starting this month will give anyone over 100 years old a free Root Beer Float for life! When we think about A&W we think of their hotdogs, floats, being outside and enjoying this combo together whether you’re with friends or family and a great sense of nostalgia!
On Jun 20th, 1919 Roy W Allen co-founded and opened his first restaurant in Lodi, California during a homecoming celebration for WWI veterans. All of these years later, the iconic floats continue to be used and enjoyed in their frosty glass mugs. In addition, the brand supports military veterans in its ongoing work with Disabled American Veterans. These free floats for life for centurians represent over 108,000 people in the US and the brand wants to support this generation of people. The brand partnered with 2 people of this group who are both WWII veterans 104 year old Hazel Calloway and 100 year old Glendell Bennett. By partnering with Baddiewinkle who is 95, they can continue to spread their message through her millions of social media as she shows how her personal style and love for life is something that she embraces to the fullest!
Although this social influencer is not of age to partake in this lifetime promotion, those who are qualifying customers can visit any A&W franchise with identification in order to have their Root Beer Float! For those who are over 13 and not 100, you can get a free Root Beer Float every year on your birthday. Of course as we continue to navigate Summer energy, you can enjoy great classics including burgers and cheese curds by joining Rooty’s Mug Club.
PHOTO CREDIT | Naked 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.
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PHOTO COURTESY | Rich Storry/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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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
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7. Expanding Living Spaces
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8. Updating Flooring
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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.
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!
PHOTOGRAPHY CREDITS | Bar Convent Brooklyn
Read the MAY ISSUE #102 of Athleisure Mag and see Pre-Coverage Bar Convent Brooklyn in mag.
Read the MAY ISSUE #101 of Athleisure Mag and see THE PICK ME UP in mag.
