ATHLEISURE MAG #77 MAY ISSUE

ISSUE #77

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PUBLISHER Paul Farkas

EDITORIAL Kimmie Smith

Co-Founder, Creative + Style Director

Paul Farkas

Co-Founder, Artistic Director + Tech Director

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EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS Paul Farkas | Kimmie Smith

HOST Kimmie Smith

MIXING Athleisure Studio Team

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table of contents

issue #77 may 2022

STYLE FEATURES

95

THE PICK ME UP

128

IN OUR BAG

145

ROCK THIS WHEN YOU’RE SPRINTING OUT THE DOOR BEAUTY FEATURES

142

BASIL BEAUTY

149

ATHLEISURE BEAUTY

Energy and Evolution Dimitri Vegas and Like Mike

16

Storing Seeds JB Smoove

32

This month, we talk with superstar EDM DJ/Producer duo Dimitri Vegas and Like Mike, They share their creative process, upcoming musical projects, Dimitri’s role in Jurassic World: Dominion and Mike’s BLACK BANANAS X GREEN ROOM collabora-

We caught up with JB Smoove who we love from Curb Your Enthusiasm, his podcast May I Elaborate?, countless commercials and animations. He talked about how he got into the industry, the importance of improv and projects he’s working on.

TIPPING POINT LIFESTYLE FEATURES

96

ATHLEISURE LIST PIKES IBIZA

98

ATHLEISURE LIST PAUSE STUDIO

AthleisureMag.com

56

We chat with Apple TV+’s Rose Byrne and Dierdre Friel who star in Physical.

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Collaboration

58

We talk with Mark Indelicato on being in HBO’s Hacks and Amazon’s With Love.

Issue #77 | May 2022

80

9PLAYLIST TM HARDWELL

This month’s 9PLAYLIST comes from EDM DJ/Producer, Hardwell. He shares his playlist with us.

Back at the Pynk

100

Jun 3rd, STARZ’s P-Valley is back for season 2! We chatted with some of the cast about what we can expect and to refresh us on the last season.

Issue #77 | May 2022

63MIX ROUTIN3S TM

114

Our 63MIX ROUTIN3S comes from Ajla Tomljanović where she shares her Morning, Afternoon and Night go-tos and favorites that she does each week.

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9PLAYLIST TM Lost Frequencies

84

This month’s 9PLAYLIST comes from EDM DJ/Producer, Lost Frequencies. He shares his playlist with us.

9LIST STORI3S TM 175 SOFI TUKKER EDM DJ/Producer duo SOFI TUKKER, share their must-haves in beauty, style and fitness in this month’s 9LIST STORI3S.

AthleisureMag.com

AthleisureMag.com

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Issue #77 | May 2022

We're big fans of good vibes and sounds that transform us to a special place. Without a doubt, when it comes to some of our favorite DJ/producers Dimitri Vegas and Like Mike has been our go-to for well over a decade! This month's cover is the perfect way to kick off an amazing summer ahead with this incredible musical brother duo Dimitri Thiavos and Mike Thiavos.

We wanted to find out more about this duo who has performed at Electric Daisy Carnival, Electric Zoo, Creamfields and Tomorrowland to name a few. In addition to their phenomenal tracks, we know that they have projects that they're also focused on whether its acting in the upcoming Jurassic World: Dominion, clothing lines, comic books and more. We talk about how they approach their music, how they got into the industry, collaborations that they do with a number of artists and upcoming music.

sound of hip hop, venturing down my own musical journey shortly after. Finally being old enough to travel by myself at the age of sixteen I moved to Ibiza in 2001, simultaneously banging out hip hop albums on the white island, I gradually fell in love with house music, as anyone would having the opportunity to spend late nights to the groovy beats of various house legends at Pacha Ibiza. My love for music was widespread and I was becoming way more experimental with my musical taste going from classical music to funk of the early seventies and grimy electronic beats in the eighties. Still today I think that is the foundation for the countless big sounds I’ve created and the endless unreleased songs on all my old devices, I must have made over a hundred albums by now ranging in different musical genres.

AM: When did you realize that you ATHLEISURE MAG: When did you first fall wanted to be DJs/producers? in love with music?

MT: Although I love deejaying and as DIMITRI THIVAIOS: From a very early age, it’s not really rocket science, I’ve alwe were both into music, but I was the ways considered myself a performer, first to really get into buying records and musical creator, and a producer indjing etc. Seeing music as much more than stead of a DJ. Making music is where I just a hobby, but more a career. I started can find the real art of expressing mydjing when I was 13 and really pushed my- self with whatever mood I’m in in that self from very early on to try and make a moment, both instrumental and vocalcareer out of djing, which led me to mov- ly, in sound and lyrics. ing to Majorca and then later Ibiza.

I would say the producing of electronic MIKE THIAVOS: Electronic music has al- music started after coming back from ways been a part of my life growing up, working abroad for a couple of years as that was the main style of music be- and realizing the market and prospect ing heard on radios and played out on a for making rap albums wasn’t a very mainstream level in Belgium since the lucrative thing being from Belgium early 90’s and even before I was born, re- back then (although it’s a different stomembering the countless “top hits” cd’s ry now). So going back to our roots of being played by my parents on our seem- electronic music was an inevitable but ingly everlasting trips in our car without nevertheless easy decision for me to AC to Greece over summer (laughs)… but make. next to always having been intrigued by my brother’s musical antics and trying to After inviting Dimitri to move into my learn and copy my older brother’s behav- apartment the ball really started rollior, as most younger siblings do. I started ing when we decided to work togethwriting songs around the age of fourteen, er as a team. I learned all my earliest after being introduced to the wonderful tricks from Dimitri who was already

very knowledgeable when it came to software and computers.

It took me a couple of years before I was able to fully produce my own tracks and get into making sounds like ‘Mammoth’ and ‘Tremor,’ but it was a wonderful journey that has continued until this very day.

AM: What’s your process like when it comes to creating your music and where do you find inspiration?

MT: I create sounds and make songs every day that I can; it’s a ritual and something that brings a certain type of fulfilment that almost nothing else can bring me…almost like a drug. Not being able to let out my creative drive will make me feel on edge and I’m always happy being able to return to my studio, as being on tour and having a heavy tour schedule sometimes makes it hard to have a creative outlet. But then there’s other ways of doing that like writing, drawing or designing fashion, architecture or even ideas for movies or businesses that could change our planet and way of life in a positive way, cooking and food are also amongst some of my biggest passions.

Whenever I make a song that could be a good fit for DVLM I always send them to Dimitri to get his thoughts and feedback.

duction side of it, for example trying to make the sickest intros for our biggest shows of the year.

DT: Not really, our thing has always been about an equal share on the creative side. We’re willing to take risks and try new methods and ideas. If you want to be forward-thinking with your career and to keep everything fresh you need that openness.

AM: How do you balance your working relationship while also being siblings?

MT: We grew up together, so we’re used to being in each other’s lives. It’s familiar to us and if anything, it makes it easier to communicate ideas and be honest with one another about what we want to achieve.

DT: That honesty and dedication for the same targets is what makes it work.

AM: How do you define your style of music?

DT: It is difficult to put our sound into one category or genre. We love such a wide array of music across many genres, and I think that is reflected in our music.

One thing that always runs through our music is energy. Our style is mainly upbeat and has an energy that people can vibe to.

AM: Do you have specific roles when it comes to how you go about creating your music or planning your setlists?

MT: We get inspiration from so many different areas in life, and I think that shows in the people we work with. We try to work with people who inspire us, for example, we’ve been lucky enough to collaborate with some of the best names in music, such as Snoop Dogg, Wiz Khalifa, Hans Zimmer, Natti Natasha and Daddy Yankee.

MT: Dimitri has always had full control over our sets and mashups. I’ve always taken the part of being the hype man.

But I do like to come up with crazy ideas or songs or concepts to bring back from the past. I do mostly focus on the pro-

AM: Is there a different approach when you’re working on your own music versus when you’ve worked on projects with the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise or various artists that you collab with whether for remixes like Coldplay or Lady Gaga or

DT: We are always bouncing ideas around for new tracks, especially when on the road as you get a lot of inspirations from daily life and of course shows.

editing for Sean Paul, Jennifer Lopez or Pitbull?

and more. How does this fuel your work to be surrounded by these creatives?

MT: Of course, you must respect the creative side of other artists when you’re collaborating with someone else and everyone has a different approach to their work in the studio, but we love that.

DT: Every day we are inspired by all our music friends and colleagues. To witness our scene become so internationally accepted, and to see our friends help build the foundation of that is something very special. It’s never been a competition for us, we’re blessed to have such amazing people in our life and happy to see each of them flourish and have their successes inspire our own career.

DT: With remixes it’s a little different because we are there to bring our sound to the project, so it’s about respecting the original but also remembering our role is to apply our style and vision to the project.

AM: When it comes to collaborating with someone whether it’s a film or person, what do you look for?

DT: For us its simple, we have to be into the music they’re making or inspired by the project.

AM: Who are 3 people that you have yet to collaborate with that’s on your list?

DT: Lost Frequencies, Dr Dre MT: Keinemusiccrue, Artbat, Eminem AM: You have won a number of accolades for your work, played in major clubs, have ongoing residencies and have been in major festivals year after year, what does it mean to you that you have this reach and love with your fans?

DT: It means everything to us. Our fans are incredible and the support they’ve shown us over all these years is something impossible to put into words. To be a part of such an unbelievable scene, perform at these amazing events and share it with the best fans in the world is a dream come true.

AM: Musically, as well as looking at your social feed, you have an incredible group of people who you have creatively worked with, as well as are friends with, from Steve Aoki who was a previous cover, Afrojack, Martin Garrix, David Guetta

AM: You guys are always working on a number of projects, do you have any upcoming ones that you can share with us that we can keep an eye out for?

DT: With touring now back on the agenda, we have a lot of new music ready to go so stay tuned for announcements soon. What’s next from us is collaboration with a legend of the harder side of dance music, Brennan Heart. This one is going to blow the roof off!

AM: What festivals will you perform at this summer?

DT: We’ve a busy schedule this summer and excited to be back on the road again. Fans can catch us at Ushuaia Ibiza for our summer residency, as well as AirBeat One, Balaton Sound, Barcelona Beach Festival, Neversea Festival, Dance Valley, Creamfields, and of course we’ll be at our home Tomorrowland.

AM: What are your 3 favorite events to play?

DT: Playing our own shows at Ushuaia Ibiza, or our end of year parties at the Antwerp Sportpaleis, are always a special occasion because we get to be a part of the whole process.

MT: And being a part of Tomorrowland.

AM: How do you stay in shape as you’re on the road frequently and we’re always looking for routines that we can include

in our workout?

MT: Touring life can be intense, both physically and mentally, especially when you’re on extensive touring schedules.

Sleep is a vital part of looking after yourself when touring but it’s hard to keep a steady circadian rhythm, also having the right nutrition and staying away from stimulants is key. We manage it by fitting in time to exercise regularly.

AM: How would you define your personal style?

DT: Casual but stylish.

MT: My style is a combination of different influences picked during my life and the constant drive to improve and find a better version of yourself, ever evolving and not holding on too much to old ideals.

AM: You do a lot of traveling, what are your 3 favorite cities that you enjoy visiting?

MT: My absolute favourite city is Athens but I do love spending time in New York, Los Angeles and Miami.

DT: Ibiza, Ibiza and… Ibiza (jokes).

AM: In addition to working together, both of you have a number of projects that you’re involved in. Dimitri you’ve been acting in movies such as Men In Black: International and Rambo: Last Blood and you’ll be in the upcoming Jurassic World: Dominion – what was it like to be involved in this and what can you tell us about it?

DT: An incredible experience both as an actor and more so as a fan of the franchise. A real childhood dream come true.

Being a part of these amazing movie projects and around so many phenomenal actors and actresses has taught me so much already. I’m super excited to see the movie on the big screen with my friends and family. Anyone who follows

me knows I’m a huge fanboy of the movie and comic business, so I’m truly honoured to be a part of these projects.

And now with my first lead role in the movie H4Z4RD coming up, I can’t wait to do more stuff…

MT: On a personal level, I’ve designed my past two houses, created a new label and fashion line and several concepts for restaurants that are about to be put into fruition and am invested in very forward-thinking companies and concepts that are hopefully taking the world by storm in the nearby future. The ultimate goal is combining all passions and curating unique experiences that are unmatched.

AM: You’re a comicbook fan, we recently interviewed Rodney Barnes where we talked about his work with Marvel, Star Wars and the Killadelphia series. How did you fall in love with comic books and what are your 3 favorite comic books?

DT: For as long as I can remember, I’ve always been fascinated by comic books.

I grew up on stories like Ninja Turtles, Batman, Spider-Man, all of which were and remain my favourite superheroes. I still collect comics and have a room dedicated to my passion of all things Marvel and DC. AM: You also have Dino Warriors – what was the thought behind creating this and what can you tell me about it?

DT: It’s been a dream of mine to create my own universe within the comic industry. I’ve had the Dino Warriors idea in mind for a long time. Teaming up with David Uslan and his father Michael, the originator and executive producer of the Batman movie franchise, felt like the perfect moment for this project to come to live.

I’m proud to say that we also have onboard one of IDW Publishing's most critically acclaimed writers Erik Burnham, best known for writing Ghost-

busters, Back to the Future, Transformers, A-Team, and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles comics. As well as Jim Starlin (creator of Marvel's Infinity War uber-villain Thanos and more), Brett Booth (Spider-Man, the Fantastic Four, and the X-Men), Stephen Segovia, known for his work with DC Comics and Marvel and Valiant Entertainment, and Diego Galindo (Power Rangers, Dungeons & Dragons, and Stranger Things) are all part of the projects creative team.

AM: What is Smash Universe?

DT: We’ve a deep-rooted passion in other creative art forms beyond music, everything from film to esports so we decided to launch our lifestyle agency Smash Universe to allow us the freedom to explore these areas more. The project had been in our minds for a while.

We got introduced to Miranda Huybers, a gaming industry veteran who was part of Activision’s “Call of Duty” team, by one of our team members, and it immediately felt good. Miranda brings a wealth of knowledge to the table, along with our Smash The House team and our manager Nick Royaards. Add to that Nick Depauw, head of SMASH esports, Nick Royaards, as well as Perry van de Mosselaar and Dwayne Megens from our label Smash The House and we have the nucleus of a formidable team.

AM: Mike, I know you just had a collaboration with BLACK BANANAS – the tracksuit looks cool. How did this collaboration come about, and will you continue to work with them?

MT: There’s a long connection with Tomorrowland and the popular Dutch streetwear. It’s a friendship that’s lasted over a decade. We wanted to lay down casual street wear, athleisure, that symbolizes the ideologies of both BLACK BANANAS and my label GREEN ROOM. A perfect combination was found with the inspiration from the world of football, hence the captain style armband.

This is just the beginning of our story working together.

AM: You also released a solo album, “Pain, Love, & What Comes After”, how long did it take to put this album together and why did you want to release it?

MT: I would say it’s an accumulation of some of my favourite songs and collaborations created in the past 5 years.

It was a very personal project for me, highlighting some of the most emotional and captivating moments of my life, depicting a beautiful but sometimes also sad story and, outside of mine and Dimi’s work together, was a chance to showcase a different side of my musical creativity.

AM: You had your first solo set in Vegas last month. What was that like and will you have upcoming solo sets that we should keep an eye out for?

MT: Being able to play out my new music and curating a night by myself was an incredible experience that asks for more!! It was a chance to showcase my new sounds and to be around so many incredible people that decide to fly in from all over the world. The energy and buzz from that experience was one of the best I’ve ever felt, and I could feel all the love. I was really nervous on the night, especially since it’s a totally different sound than what people are used to hearing from us as DVLM. It’s literally taking it back to our roots and some of the earliest vibes we grew up loving. I’ll be doing more shows again soon, planning a US solo tour at the end of this year so stay tuned.

AM: In terms of the Dimitri Vegas and Like Mike brand from your music, touring and additional projects, how do you want your legacy to be seen?

MT: Well, we’re far from over. We’ve got so much more planned, so many exciting projects coming up and new shows scheduled. Although never having a

clear vision of the path, I'm absolutely confident there are many more goals to achieve, so answering this question right now doesn’t feel right. Evolution is key.

AM: How do you take time for yourselves when you’re not in your projects?

MT: Grounding and healing yourself and being creative in different ways is a big part of my time off and spending it with friends and family is what matters most for us. @dimitrivegasandlikemike @dimitrivegas @likemike PHOTOGRAPHY CREDITS | Front/Back Cover + PG 16 - 25 + 28 - 31 Boy Kortekaas @boythecollector | PG 26 -27 + PG 70 - 71 9DRIP Benhoudijk |

We're all about big energy while keeping it real and J.B. Smoove is both of these!

You know when you see him on the stage or on your screen that he's going to make you laugh, think and give you his philosphy on life and how to approach it - all while rocking great style. We've enjoyed seeing him in a number of films from Pootie Tang, Barbershop: The Next Cut, the Spider-Man franchise and more. He's also been in numerous TV series from The Last O.G., Woke and of course Curb Your Enthusiasm. He's someone that you see everywhere and yet he aligns perfectly with the projects that we see him in.

We had to check in with him to find out about his journey from being a standup comedian, SNL writer and performer, actor and more. He talked about how he honed his skills, how he navigates his career and what he has coming up.

ATHLEISURE MAG: What was the moment that you realized that you wanted to be an entertainer?

J.B. SMOOVE: You know, I’ve always been the one – some people have a high threshold for pain, I think that that’s what it is. In simple terms, I think that I have this thing and feel for people when I know that people need laughter and they need communication. They need all these fun things that make life easier.

I remember one time that I missed my flight because somebody stopped me and I could tell that this dude needed somebody to talk to about his dreams and I missed my damn flight! I felt like, damn I’ll get the next one. In that moment, it just felt like something was - like sometimes you just have to talk people off the ledge in some sense you know? It’s their life, it’s their everything, but sometimes what you provide for people is something that you can’t buy. I think that shows that you’re a real person and it shows you that you can reach out and touch that person. What I promote is real!

You know how fans get, sometimes they

don’t believe that you are who you are or who they think you are, or who they perceive you to be by what you do on camera. You know how it is. Nowadays, the world is faster, people promote certain things, but that’s not who they are. They do things to be accepted, to be liked, to be all these things and it’s not real and it doesn’t come from a real place. I think for me and my upbringing from where I started from is something that I can appreciate more. I’m talking about the days from pulling over and having to make a phone call at the phone booth!

Those days, it was more hands on – you know what I mean? There’s automatic transmission and then there’s manual – I’m a manual dude! I got to switch gears for myself. I need to know when to slow down and when to hit the brake! Sometimes I don’t brake at all! Most of the time, I’m just changing gears because brake means that I’m going to stop.

When you’re changing gears, I’m just navigating through it! You know what I mean? It’s different!

AM: And it is different!

I think that you have such an authenticity about you and that’s why people love being able to see you. It’s great to see you popping on screen in your shows or starting up my Mon with your podcast. I know that when I hear you, I’m going to get you as an authentic full experience!

JBS: Yes indeed! And that, you know to answer the question – that is something that I do from the heart and for the love of what I do! For the love of being in the moment, for the love of something to hold onto that knowledge and to hold onto that laughter! Holding onto things that makes me happy – it’s the ability to benefit the world or the people who also want to do what I do or just want to be inspired. I do think that it applies to every walk of life no matter what your occupation is or what your dreams are, the same process applies. Come early, stay late, be courteous to people, respect their dreams and what they're trying to

do – don’t waste their time, don’t waste your time. There are certain things that will apply always. I think that is the core of growth and the core of achieving your dreams. What I want to do is to be consistent. I want to give this laughter away whether you’re paying me or if you’re not paying for it. I don’t get paid if I stop and talk to someone for half an hour and miss my flight. I can’t say, “oh I got paid for that so it’s ok I missed the flight.” No, I’m doing that because I felt something for this person in that moment that they needed this quick little talk and it’s free.

AM: How did you hone your craft?

JBS: You know, being in real situations.

Real situations are a comedian's food.

That’s our food. Real situations, you can elaborate on real situations and make them funny. You can take pain and make it funny. You can take funny and make it funnier. So you know, it’s all in the construction of the joke, the construction of the situation, the construction of the scene – you know? That is where it comes from. I always say that anyone can tell a joke if I have to use what I do for a living. Anybody can tell a joke, but not everyone can sell a joke. Everybody can’t sell it – you can tell it – but everybody can’t sell it!

AM: I am the worst joke teller because I forget the parts, I have to stop and reset it – so I definitely can’t sell it.

JBS: Oh yeah, that’s true!

AM: I remember when I first saw you for Def Comedy Jam as a standup comedian and then you went onto SNL as a writer and a performer! What was that experience like?

JBS: To me it was great. But again, you gotta make decisions on your movement because when I started on Def Comedy Jam and I was on BET and did all of these TV shows, guest starring, touring in colleges, those road gigs, tours and all of the things that I have done, making the decision to move to LA, doing all of that stuff

and making the decision to go on Cedric the Entertainer Presents, getting on Lyricists Lounge Show – doing guest spots on TV shows, doing my first CBS deal – all those things I’ve done.

Then to sit there and say, “ok I have this audition for SNL.” My second time auditioning for SNL actually. I did it twice. I was going for cast member. For me, you sit there and you say, I’m going in for cast member and I didn’t make the show as a performer but I ended up making the show as a writer. Even when I got the offer for a writer, I was in the middle of a deal for a host of stuff of my own so I had to say do I put myself on hold to work on Saturday Night Live? So I sat and thought about it and decided that it would look great on my resume so I said, as more of a business move. I know that the percentage of shows that actually air are so small and back then it was REALLY hard! Back then we didn’t have the streaming services. We didn’t have Netflix and Hulu and Amazon. We didn’t have any of this stuff. It was just regular TV, HBO and Showtime. We had the premium channels but those opportunities, we didn’t have as big of a chance to get someone to air. I had to sit there and say, “ok. If I put this to the side and do this, how can I make this work for me?”

I said, I will do this and then figure it out later. But this is going to look great on my resume – SNL. So I came to SNL and when I got here, I ended up doing sketches, I ended up being a writer on the show, I ended up doing monologues on the show and ended up doing all these amazing things for the show and doing warmups for my 3 seasons. So I ended up doing a lot of stuff and that was 4 different checks – that’s a NY hustle right there! But that’s also being someone who has different skills – who can be a utility person – 4 things at the same time. That helps me and shows how I can be versatile. I can do 4 jobs at once.

For me, it worked out perfect. I had the

chance to be JB, I had a chance to be someone who's able to do all of these amazing things and at the same time, it allowed me to work and build my resume and network with these amazing guest stars of the show. So it was definitely a process.

I can’t say that it was easy – it was hard work because you’re talking about someone going from being a standup comedian to being a writer. I wasn’t a traditional writer. I improvise a lot in my standup so for me it made more sense to take it, do all of my skills under one roof. I did 3 seasons over there and it looks great on my resume, so it served its purpose doing it that way.

None of those other opportunities went away, the opportunities for TV shows were still there, the opportunities for movies were still there and I was still able to leave there and do a bunch of movies – The Sitter, Hall Pass, Date Night all in a row. I got a chance to do all of that stuff and when I was working over at SNL, I did Conan O’Brien. Conan O’Brien’s show, he was still at NBC at that time and I did his show as a sketch artist 10 times. So I had a chance to get from behind the desk typing jokes, go downstairs on the elevator and do a sketch with Conan and then get back in the elevator upstairs to finish working.

I got a chance to do so many things while I was over there. Again, it wasn’t easy and it was humbling in some sense. You’re in control on stage but you’re not in control on this show which is live TV. Everything is just fast. You have to sit there and write all night long for these sketches and it’s humbling because it’s like your trying out for the cheerleading team or the football team and you go in the hallway and they put the list up of who made the team.

There was a piece of paper in the hallway that said whose sketch made it and you had to read that list on the wall and you’d say, "damn, I didn’t get it."

cess that I have already completed rather than this fast and quick process that these young people are doing now. I had more time to smell the roses.

AM: I’m a huge fan of Curb Your Enthusiasm, you joined it in the 6th season and I know that the 12th season is coming back, how did you get attached to the show and how involved are you in creating and evolving the character of Leon Black?

JBS: Oh man! My wife told me that I was going to be on the show. We would watch the show, we loved the show and even when I was on SNL, we would talk about the show on our writing days.

One day I said, that I would love to be on the show and man I got the opportunity. I always say that one thing has to step out of the way in order for something else to come through. I didn’t get renewed for my 4th season of SNL and I literally went from coming to LA for a friend’s memorial – my friend Oji Pierce who composed and produced This is How We Do It and I was there for his memorial service. I make moves because I trust my process and I trust my talent. I know I always bounce back from things.

I had actually fired my agent – I fired every damn body! I knew that once I fired them, I wasn’t going back to SNL.

AM: Oh wow that happened every week!

The agents are the ones that fight for you and keep you hired. They are the ones that call and make it go. I said, well if I fire my agent who I am not happy with, I know for a fact, that I will not get spoken about and they’re not going to push to keep me on the show if they’re not getting paid to do what they do. So I said, “well, I’m going to see what happens.” I fired them and I knew I wasn’t going back and for a fact that with no one there to speak for me, there was no way that I was going to be able to stay at SNL.

JBS: It was an amazing experience and I wouldn't change that for anything in the world. I would have rather taken this pro-

So I took that chance, I rolled the dice and I took that chance. Low and behold, I didn’t get renewed. I was out on the

road for a month doing standup. Oji passed away, my wife already told me that I was going to be on Curb Your Enthusiasm and I got a phone call of my friend passing and I went to LA for one day. I signed with a new agent before I went to LA, went to meet them when I got to LA and one of the agents said, “man, I have an audition for you – how long are you in town?” I told them that I had come into town for 1 day to pay respects to my buddy and I was going back tomorrow.

He said he had an audition for me and I asked him what it was for and he said, Curb Your Enthusiasm. I said, “get out of here, you have to be kidding me!” I went on the audition and you know, I did what I did well which is improvise which takes these scenes and make them my own. Let me do what I do because I’m going to do what I do! Me and Larry hit it off in the audition. We hit it off to the point where we were in there laughing our butts off and having a good time. We became friends that day. I left there and said to myself, if someone gets that job, God bless them, but me and that man had a great time!

That leads to me being on the greatest improvised show to me in TV history.

So, my process is, I’m an improv guy. I have been improvising my entire life and I think that that’s a life choice too. Improvising gives you the ability to change your mind in the moment where no one will ever know that you changed your mind! Improvising will give you the ability to sway someone in a different direction. Improvising gives you a way of reading energy and reading their body language – all of these great things that you can do by knowing the process and being able to improvise. It pays off in life, it pays off in acting, it pays off in real estate sales if you’re a realtor.

You can be anyone you want, but if you improvise just a little bit, it allows you to pick up little nuances about people that you can use to your advantage.

I think that that’s what helps me so much having to improvise in my standup career so much. It really allowed me to take that

skill and to use that 1 little improv class that I took that summer before I started doing standup. I would tell anyone that they should take improv – I don’t care what you do. That allowed me to really hone in on my acting skills and to get in the moment which makes my standup shows so different. I’m literally listening to what this particular audience is laughing at which is what I apply to Curb Your Enthusiasm.

Whatever is working for my character and sometimes, I don’t know what I will do with my character. Sometimes I don’t know. Sometimes I just go with what the scene is and I take that. Sometimes what I do is, I will decide in the moment if I want to have Larry’s back or if I want to go against Larry. I decide right there, do I want to be on Larry’s side or will I go against him – what is the better argument here? I really decide in the moment and it gives me the upper hand and let’s me drive that. It also lets me give him something new that he doesn’t know about the character every time I work with him. That way, I create these forks in the road – these branches to the character. My character has never been defined. We still don’t know where the hell he came from – so for me to be able to make that up over the 6 seasons that I have been there is great! I can still tell people a little more that they need to know about Leon which makes it fun!

AM: You have been in so many series and films from Spider-Man movies, co-hosting – what do you look for when you’re sent projects and what goes into your decision on whether you’re going to participate in something?

JBS: I go by this, which works for me: I read the script of course. If they specifically call for me, I’m kind of past the audition process at this point because I am established all these years. I get offers for things and I can say yay or nay to the offer. Once in a while, I have to read for something – once in a while. It could be some thing very specific or something

that is outside of my lane and it’s to show that I can do something if it’s a drama or something like that. If I meet a director or a producer and they ask for me specifically and they say that they want me to make my character my own, that is the most precious words that I can hear for an improv guy or a guy that they can trust to do that character. When they say, “make the character your own JB. We love your voice and your sensibilities and we love what you do and we want you to be that character and vice versa.” So I’m like cool, let me make it my own and I take that character and I make them my own. This happens in movies, in TV, in commercials, in animations – it doesn’t matter. They let me do me and if it’s animations, I say let me see the character so I can see who it is and then I can take that character and then I can make that character my own.

AM: You also have Four Courses with JB Smoove, why did you want to do this?

JBS: You know what. I love talk shows and I love talking to friends and I’m good at it. I love to sit there and kick it and have a convo with people and that is what makes interviewing people so fun. I’m curious of the process. I’m curious about your path and I’m really engaged. I love to laugh and I love the stories. I love to tell stories and I love to be interviewed while I’m interviewing – you know what I’m saying? I think that’s fun. I love to be interviewed while I’m interviewing.

AM: Last year when May I Elaborate? first came out, I knew I would be obsessed with it. I love hearing you and Miles Grose talking back and forth about various topics and it was a great way to start my day.

Why did you want to create this podcast show?

JBS: You know what? It was one of those things where everybody was doing podcasts. I knew that if everyone was doing podcasts, I had to do something that was funny, insightful and I like to give what I call, broken wisdom sometimes! I feel like there’s more than 1 way for you to be able

to get it. For some people, you have to shake it out of their ass and then you have to shake it into them and then shake whatever the issue is out of them at the same time. I think of that tough hard love in a funny way and in a way that makes sense to people. I’m giving it to you in a way that is like a friend. I’m not a doctor, I don’t know it all, I know a lot about everything and a little bit about nothing. You need that balance!

You have to tell people sometimes that, “I’m not sure but God damn, I know you got to give it to them like that and here’s what I would do.” I can’t say it’s going to work, but this is what I would do and this is how to get the process started.

You sometimes have to get out of your own fucking head. If I can get you out of your own head, I’m halfway there!

That’s the block right there. You’re like a controlled schizophrenic – you are battling yourself in your own head. Different versions of you don’t know how to handle certain things. So you’re stuck in a certain place and you just need to find some kind of way to talk to the right person in your head to get it moving in the right direction.

AM: With the 2nd season dropping last month, what can we expect for the season going forward? Last season was really long as it was everyday which was great.

This season, the format is a little different with it being on Mon and you guys have more personalities that are joining you each week like Tiffany Haddish, Kevin Nealon and Randall Park. What can we look forward to?

JBS: In the 1st season, we did almost 190 episodes! Which is crazy! So, we will more than likely maybe transition this amazing podcast into possibly an animated version – we’re not sure yet. We think that the wisdom is funny enough and the visuals that I give Miles and that Miles gives me, you always want to see it and I think that there is a funny way to present this show.

It’s so funny, we got nominated for a

podcast award but guess what? We didn’t get nominated in the comedy category.

We got nominated in inspirational and religious category which is crazy! We got nominated with all the gurus and people who are speaking real shit. We’re taking real things and just elaborating on them in a funny way and we get put in that category instead of a comedy one which is nutso! It’s a little bit flattering in some ways to be nominated with all of these amazing people who are really speaking truth to the world. But it’s also like, damn, is what we’re saying not funny or are we ambidextrous - we’re left and right-handed? Can we do both? We have found a way to do both!

Without Miles, Miles is the glue. He is the voice of reason. He is the funniest dude ever. He does the research, I elaborate and he pulls me back. So, we have something that works well and yes, we’re not sure what we’re going to do with the show yet. We have so many ideas on our slate that it’s unlimited amount of ideas that we have that we can do and we haven't locked in what we’re going to do with May I Elaborate?, but we’re not locked out of it either. So, we’ve done a lot of episodes. For this type of show, we’re not just turning it on and talking. You have to do a little research and it takes a lot of time and looking at the perfect quote and affirmation and using it to our advantage.

AM: For last season, it was just the perfect show especially in the midst of the pandemic. To be able to have those lighter moments that would come in and to start the day off with that, it allowed us to have some laughs before we delved into the work here at Athleisure Mag whether it was booking, virtual shoots, meetings etc and it created a part of the day that we looked forward to. That was definitely special but in general. I’m always excited to hear what you will elaborate on?

JBS: Yes and we’re looking forward to doing in some capacity – anything that we can do to help people and to keep things fresh and fun. As little work as possible,

but as much of a reward as possible.

AM: You have also had amazing partnerships whether it’s with Crown Royale, Caesars or JUST Egg to name a few.

What do you look for when it comes to brand alignment that wants to connect with you? How do you decide what you want to lend your brand to?

JBS: I kind of go with the notion of to talk about what I know about – that way I’m not ever in a weird position. I’m a vegan so I love the JUST Egg relationship that we have. I entertain a lot so I did love my Crown Royale campaign. Every campaign I have ever done, I have always found a way to make it something that I love and that I can put a lot of energy into it and I use it. We were doing this branded entertainment with these companies for years before anybody was really doing it. I did a Mountain Dew campaign years ago – Mountain Dew White Out campaign – you name it.

This Caesars one is just another one that I love. I love taking on characters. I like characters. I grew up in the age where commercials were about the characters – the “Where’s the Beef” lady, I love commercials man – AM: The “Time to Make the Donuts” man.

JBS: Oh yes – time to make the donuts! I love that stuff! I always loved characters and reoccurring cool characters.

AM: We love your Caesars Sportsbook one. Like you said the fact that it’s characters, but also – we love football. We’re in NY, but also – I love football. We’re in NY, but I’m originally from Indiana so when you had the Mannings – that was exciting and then of course, Halle Berry in the commercial! How did this come back with you partnering with them and what will you do with them in terms of ongoing work?

JBS: Well, I actually did a commercial years ago a with a director. The com-

mercial never made it to air, but what happened was, the director remembered me and he loved the commercial even though it never aired and he reached out. He said he was doing a campaign with Caesars and he didn’t see anyone else being Caesar but me! He liked my voice, my delivery and he knew it would be fun. He said he couldn’t imagine anyone else embodying this emperor than me. He said that he thought that it would be amazing and wanted to know if I wanted to do it and I thought it sounded hilarious. He said if we were going to do it, we were going to start the campaign and he had already sold me to Caesars and let them know that they would be blown away by me and that I was his guy. He told them that no one would be able to do this better than JB. Now that goes back to what we were talking about – coming early, staying late, being courteous, not being a diva – all those things. I’m a seed planter. This is another version of planting seeds for later. I’m the squirrel who has those acorns and buries them for winter. That’s why my phone rings constantly. I’m always planting seeds and I have tons of seeds still planted. My phone rings and it keeps going and that’s why it keeps ringing because I have already planted these seeds and relationships that I have built already.

That’s how I keep busy. People say all the time, “man, you’re everywhere – but you don't see everything at one time.” Everything is spread out over time because I have planted seeds and projects and it’s going to come out at this time and then this project over here will come out after this project at this time. My visibility is always up there and that’s the fun part.

AM: You’re an Emmy award winner, author, comedian, actor, producer, podcast host - you do so many things. What else do you want to add to your portfolio that you have yet to do?

JBS: I know at some point, I will get behind the camera and direct something.

We started a brand new company called Alternate Side Productions, we’re going

to build an amazing brand, an amazing company which will be off the hook.

We’re going to do some amazing projects under the JB Smoove banner with brand and style and the things that we love to do. We’re going to build that and I’m going to put a lot of people to work. I think that that’s what needs to be done to build a production company.

I want to drop some amazing products in the vegan lane. I’m a vegan. That’s going to be another thing. I have been doing the vegan thing for a long time.

A lot of people are just jumping on the bandwagon, but you know, I let them do what they do. I’ve been vegan for awhile and I have been harping on this for awhile now and linking myself with other vegan products. A lot of people are just getting onto it and you know, it’s all good. I’m already established in this lane so it’s another thing and extension of what I do. It’s also another extension of caring about people’s health and my own health.

AM: What led you to want to become a vegan?

JBS: Well my wife has been a vegan for forever. My wife is a musical artist and has been a vegan forever and hasn’t had meat in something like 27 years. So, she was a vegetarian for awhile, then a vegan and now she is a raw vegan which is a whole other level. She’s doing that now, but I’m a straight vegan. I’ve been part-time/full-time for a long time. I was part-time vegan and full-time carnivore for awhile. Now, for the past 4 years, I have been a straight vegan and it’s been great.

AM: As you say, you’re always planting seeds. Do you have upcoming projects that you are able to share that we should keep an eye out for?

JBS: Not right now. The main thing I’m working on right now is of course, you know that Curbed got greenlit for season 12, I have a bunch of animated shows coming out, I have the new season of

Woke out right now and I’m recording something right now for a video game. I’m also recording 2 other animated shows at the same time. I’m also building this company. I’m resuming my standup tour and I’m also doing a special and hoping that I can get it done by the top of the year.

There’s a bunch of cool things that I am working on and I’m very happy with my process. I like to be the steady tortoise sometimes – I don’t need everything at one time, I still love my private time so that I can RV. I still love to do all the fun things that I love to do. As I said, my wife is also out there doing her thing with her new studio. We’re doing so many cool things and also we’re building some companies outside of entertainment. Yeah we’re just doing cool stuff and things that are off our interest list.

AM: You have great style that's well accessorized. As a stylist in addition to my role as a Co-Founder and Style Director at Athleisure Mag, how do you define your style and would you ever create your own clothing/accessory line?

JBS: I love style! I grew up in an era where you build your outfits from the shoes up.

You get a nice pair of reliable comfortable shoes because the first thing people do is look down at your feet and then they work their way up to your eyes.

I do have some amazing things coming out. I’m working on a watch, I’m working on a hat line and some amazing bracelets.

I’m working on a few amazing things. Yes, all of these things I plan on dropping before the new year and this is going to be some amazing accessories. Apparel is a little hard, but accessories are something that I love and I love things that I consider conversation pieces. A conversation piece will get you in the door and you can meet your new boss. It just takes the interview and this changes the meeting and the relationship and takes it to something different. It gets you in differently.

I tell young people all the time, create a conversation piece whether it's a rose or

a flower in your lapel – something that people look at and think, “wow, I like his style. I like what he represents.” That is the #1 thing – a shiny pair of shoes, a pocket square – something amazing on you to create and allow people to keep their eyes on you. It creates that question of, what kind of rose is that, what kind of pocket square – who made that tie? All these things are things that people look at and allows them to reaffirm who you are!

AM: I couldn’t agree more – statement pieces are so essential!

With everything that you have done, what do you want your legacy to be?

JBS: I just want to be known as a chance taker. I believe in getting as many at bats as possible. Get as many swings at the ball as possible. I have always been one where I have had some stumbles, but I have a bad memory of those stumbles.

I tell people all the time that life keeps going – it keeps moving. To be free of mind and to be free to take as many swings as possible and to know that you can change your mind. Take as many swings of the things that you want to do in this life as possible. The more swings you get, the more hits you get. If you’re sitting on your hands, you can’t get the swings! I always say, get those swings in, figure out your progress, figure out what you want to do and keep swinging at it. I want to be known as chance taker, a guy that always walks on a tightrope with no net. I always feel like I got good balance. With good balance, you never worry about falling - you know what I mean? If you worry about falling, you worry about standing up. @ohsnapjbsmoove PHOTOGRAPHY CREDITS | PG 30 - 31 Harrison O'Brien | PG 33 + 43 Noemad | PG 34, 50 + PG 73 - 75 9DRIP Storm Santo | PG 36 - 40 Curb Your Enthusiasm HBO/ John P Johnson | PG 44 - 47 Luis Ruiz | PG 49 The Last O.G. TBS/Cara Howe |

When we first heard about Apple TV+'s dark comedy, Physical, we knew that we would enjoy it. Growing up in the 80s, we remember watching countless workout videos with Jane Fonda, Denise Austin and more. What's not to love about the leotards, neon outfits and so much more.

In Physical, we meet Sheila Rubin played

by Rose Byrne (Bridesmaids, X-Men: Apocalypse, Mrs. America) who is a San Diego housewife that is juggling her household while battling personal demons and an inner voice that is extremely viscious. She finds empowerment and success with aerobics as well as a friendship with Greta played by Dierdre Friel (The Sopranos, Little America, New Amsterdam).

With a second season starting Jun 3rd, we catch up with all the drama from the last season as we continue to see Sheila build her empire! We can't wait to see where we go and to see Murray Bartlett (Guiding Light, Nashville, The White Lotus) who plays Vinnie Green being added to the cast.

We catch up with Rose and Diedre to talk about the new season, what drew them to this show and how they prepare.

ATHLEISURE MAG: What drew you to Physical. What drew you to the show and what made you want to be part of it?

DIERDRE FRIEL: As a plus size actress, I actually said that I don’t like to do roles that have to do with my size. Most of the time in storytelling, it has some sort of negative connotation where you’re the butt of the joke or something like that. So actually, when the show came up for me, I was a little bit anxious about that – whether or not being heavy was going to be made fun of and pointed out. But in fact, after getting the script and getting more information, I was like, this is really an empowering asset and really wonderful thing.

This season, she’s super sexy and all of this stuff, so I really loved it. It actually drew me to really wanting it and that was really wonderful for me.

ROSE BYRNE: Yeah, I read the script in

2019 and then I met with Annie Weisman (Desperate Housewives, The Path, The Bold Type), the creator and I was just so drawn to it and I had never read anything like it. It’s a very candid story about her and her struggles with her eating disorder and growing up in San Diego. It just felt very intimate, raw and dark. I knew it would be funny and polarizing to some extent and I felt very drawn to the whole world of it.

AM: I mean, I agree, I love thinking back to that time of the 80s where people were working out in aerobics and there was this birth of the fitness industry that brought us to where we are today. There are so many dynamic topics and points that are talked about and I like the relationship between you guys as your characters. How did you prepare to be in these roles and to go through these awesome tensions that exist within your arcs between the two of you?

DF: To prepare to get into character, it’s different for each project. For the show, depending on the scene. If it’s kind of a light scene like a walk and talk, something like that, honestly, I really like our relationship so we can roll up and have some sort of chit chat and I feel that sometimes with those scenes, we roll into them really easily because of the natural ability of it.

If it’s something heavier or darker, sometimes I listen to some music and something like that to just get into the right kind of headspace with it – to do some thinking about it.

RB: Yes. Annie Weisman who created this is a really good touchstone in terms of Sheila. I particularly love the scenes with the aerobics. They’re very hard, but it’s great in a way, you’re less self conscious. You don’t have the time to make too many decisions. I mean, what’s more boring then watching an actor make decisions about a performance. You know what I mean? It’s like there’s a lot more things that are more boring - but as a

viewer, I think that it is when you feel that you can see people calculating what’s next. So when you’re doing a physical scene, it’s always a bit liberating in a way and less scary.

AM: With the 2nd season kicking off on June 3rd and as a bit of a refresher, where do we end with your characters from last season and where do we pick then up again?

RB: Well Sheila really ends her marriage at a crisis point with the beginnings of this affair with John Breem played by Paul Sparks (Boardwalk Empire, House of Cards, Sweetbitter) who is a very powerful and successful businessman in San Diego. We pick up and she’s also released this fitness video which has sort of caught on fire and has a local following. We meet her at this moment where she is trying to build this brand and to build this business. She’s harboring this pretty dangerous affair with this guy and she’s in “recovery” – but then there’s recovery and then there’s recovery. It’s dealt with later and I love that. I mean, it’s a true representation or a version of one person’s way of trying to recover from a terrible addiction and illness.

DF: Greta in season 1 really becomes inspired a lot by Sheila. A lot of Greta’s story is really built around her friendship with Sheila and additionally, her relationship with her husband as they went through a big change so they are exploring their marriage and their relationship.

They’re adventurous together and so a lot of that plays in as well in looking at the relationships in Greta’s life. @appletvplus @fullyrosebyrne @dierdre_friel PHOTO CREDITS | PG 56 - 61 APPLE TV+/ Physical

When Ugly Betty first came out, it was definitely a must that you were watching this show. The cast had breakout stars, iconic actors, of the moment topics and the series delved into the world of Mode Magazine. One of the characters that was a fan favorite was Justin played by Mark Indelicato. As a young actor, we watched him in this show. After 4 seasons, this show ended and Mark decided that he would go to college to experience life.

After taking time for himself, he continued with acting and played in a number of TV shows and films. We caught up with him recently to talk about 2 series that are both back for their second season and are having major moments from HBO Max's Hacks and Amazon Originals' With Love.

He talks about what draws him to projects, the importance of collaboration and using his platform.

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

MARK INDELICATO: I realized I wanted to be an actor when I was quite young. I can’t recall a specific moment where the lightbulb went off, I just remember how much fun I had. And 20 years later I’m still having fun.

AM: What are you looking for when new projects come up or are offered to you?

MI: Of course, first and foremost it’s the words that are on the page. Is this character well rounded and multidimensional?

And if not, does this character have an important function in the overall narrative of the piece. I'm not interested in projects where the character is "checking off a certain box” (i.e. “the gay friend” and things of the like).

AM: Our readers have enjoyed you in several roles from Ugly Betty, Dead of Summer etc. What is your process when you begin to work through playing your character?

MI: I really rely heavily on the writers,

show runners and directors if I’m honest. With certain roles I find myself able to slip into them pretty easily and intuitively, but I definitely always have myriad questions throughout the entirety of a shoot. Even if I feel like I have a firm grasp on the character and their motivations etc, I always find it to be helpful to ask questions. Collaboration is key.

AM: Your character Justin in Ugly Betty was such a breakout role at the time; did you think at the time that that role would be so impactful?

MI: Of course not. I was so young I really didn’t understand what it was that we were actually doing, let alone how the show and the role were going effect viewers. I was too busy having fun and pinching myself that I was able to go to work every day. It’s only in retrospect that I can really appreciate what the show and Justin, in particular, represented and still represents to people.

AM: After the success of Ugly Betty, you took time away from acting to go to college. Why was it important for you to step away and what brought you back to the industry?

MI: In short, I needed a break. The entertainment industry is famously - or infamously - difficult to navigate and I was simultaneously navigating adolescence, so I think I just felt burnt out at a certain point. I also wanted to have a sort of anonymous life experience and going to NYU definitely gave me that. I’m so happy that I took that break because it also reminded me how much I love acting and allowed me to recenter myself regarding what I wanted to pursue as an adult.

AM: We enjoyed watching Hacks as it's a great cast. What was it about this series that attracted you to it and tell us about Damien?

MI: Like I said before its all about writing. When I read the sides of Damien I

called my agent right after screaming: “I NEED TO BE ON THIS SHOW!” Although Damien has a pretty peripheral part in the first season and doesn’t necessarily speak that much, I was certain of his function in the larger narrative of the show, namely that he is a member of “Team Deborah.”

she really handed me the reins when it came to what Jorge looked like, how he dressed etc, which is extremely rare.

I really have to say that I’ve lucked out over the course of my career in working with people that value and respect my opinions.

On top of that, I was very familiar with the creators of the show, Paul W. Downs (The Mindy Project, Broad City, At Home with Amy Sedaris), Lucia Aniello (Broad City, The Baby-Sitters Club, Awkwafina is Nora From Queens) and Jen Statsky’s (Hello Ladies, Parks and Recreation, The Good Place) prior work and was in awe of the incredible people attached to the series as well, both in front and behind the camera.

AM: What can we expect from the 2nd season?

AM: The second season drops this month, where did we leave him and what can you tell us about the upcoming season?

MI: This season we go on the road! Team Deborah goes on tour, so we spent a lot of time together this season in quite close quarters. Damien picks up exactly where we leave him in season 1. He’s still snarky, still manic, and we get to see a lot more of him this season.

AM: You're also coming back for the second season of With Love. Tell us about this show which also has a great cast as well as Jorge?

MI: Yes! What I love so much about playing Jorge is just how different the world of With Love is from that of Hacks. It’s always intriguing to step into other worlds and contexts as an actor, so I’m very blessed to be able to do that for now two consecutive years with Hacks and With Love. Gloria Calderón Kellett (Devious Maids, Jane the Virgin, One Day at a Time) approached me with this character, and I just felt like I knew him. I related to him so much that it truly felt like she had written it for me.

(She didn’t) But once we started filming the first season, I was so pleased to learn how collaborative she is and how much she really wants us - the actors - to have a seat at the table. And with that being said,

MI: You can expect that same uplifting vibe that you got last year, but this year one of the three couples gets engaged.

There might even be a wedding.

AM: Over the past few years, being an activist allows people to find ways to use their platform to drive awareness. What do you use your platform for?

MI: I think that my activism comes from simply being an out and proud queer person on television. So, I would hope that my platform is such that it gives young queer viewers the ability to see themselves on television. I think I’m so passionate about representation in this context because of what I learned and saw from playing Justin on Ugly Betty.

As ignorant as it might sound, I didn’t really know how powerful television and film were in uplifting those that feel alone or disenfranchised up until I really examined how much Justin has meant to people, so I hope to continue down that road.

AM: When you're not on set what can we find you doing to take time for yourself?

MI: If you can believe it, I’m such homebody! When I’m not on set you can catch me in the kitchen making a plethora of things or on the couch with a glass of wine bingeing any franchise of the Real Housewives. @markindelicato PHOTOGRAPHY CREDIT | PG 64 - 67 Hacks/HBO | PG 68 With Love Amazon |

THE THE ART S O ARONAC F QA K:

We all have our favorite cuisines and even when it's our go-to, it's nice when we're able to be able to enjoy it in a different way for flavorful inspiration. We caught up with aRoqa's owner, Monica Saxena in NYC's Chelsea, to find out about this NYC destination, how it surprises its patrons who come to dine and what we should think about ordering the next time we swing by.

ATHLEISURE MAG: Monica, tell me about your background and how you came to creating aRoqa?

MONICA SAXENA: I grew up in a wonderful family of food lovers, families of friends who loved food, a mix of gourmet cuisine of various types (Ethnic Indian), in a place called Lucknow, in India. Food across India is a bit like the shifting dialects (approximately 122 languages and 1599 dialects), across a population of 1.3 billion people.

Every street corner could place a delectable item in your mouth. Such is the abundance of flavors and experimentation.

That alongside what was a core palate at home, which happened to be quite well evolved, got me hooked on fine foods, or you may even want to call them authentic interpretations of food that we all liked.

The seeds of good tasty foods were planted then, without much effort. It was a given at home and all that surrounded my growing up years. I moved across from India to the Bay Area in 1987 and what I missed most was that surrounding set of flavors. It took me a while to recognize that what one takes for granted can require a lot of effort, when not in that environment! From sourcing simple spices, to making the time to cook what I liked, all took time. As I liked food, I put in the effort to learn how to experiment and make do with flavors that I had begun to miss a lot. It did not become a career until 2016.

Having a partner and family that supports your aspirations, is another key ingredient to realizing your passion!

AM: Who is the Executive Chef of aRoqa and what is their culinary journey/background and kitchens that they trained in prior to coming to this restaurant?

MS: Our Executive Chef is Munny Passi, who comes from a family of restaurateurs in India. He began working in his father’s family restaurant at the tender age of 13. There he learned the techniques of Indian cooking from many of the country’s regions. He left India for England, working in traditional Indian restaurants throughout London.

He then made his way to New York and landed a job as Bhatti Indian Grill’s Head Chef, where he worked for four years before joining aRoqa.

AM: What does aRoqa mean and when did it open?

MS: “Roqa” means an informal engagement of two people prior to formal celebrations in the Panjabi language in India.

Personally, I wanted a name with few letters and the story behind the name made for a perfect venue concept that I had in mind. Roqa also means a stop and "A Roqa" means “A Stop,” which was befitting the romantic date night Indian tapas food concept I had envisioned to open. As I wanted to break the Indian food away from simply "Curry" and introduce small plates to be enjoyed. We opened June 2017.

AM: What can guests expect in terms of the cuisine that is served here?

MS: Authentic Indian flavors with a playful presentation in Tapas concept. The cuisine was developed and curated by two Indian chefs prior to the restaurant opening named Jamsheed Bhote and his wife Hanisha Singh, who came to NY to train the current team of aRoqa Kitchen team, they helped design and plate the cuisine.

AM: What is the ambiance of aRoqa – what can those coming in to dine expect when they eat here?

MS: It is seductive, romantic, inviting and intriguing, and satisfying where food is concerned.

AM: For those opting to eat at the bar, what are 3 Happy Hour items that you suggest are great to eat there?

MS: As it is mainly tapas and small plates, depending on the dietary preference we have a variety of Vegetarian and Non-vegetarian small plates keeping in mind. We have gluten free and vegan options also.

Some popular items are Eggplant with Fenugreek bread triangles, Kataifi Mushrooms, and our Habanero Chicken tikka.

AM: What are 3 cocktails that you suggest that we can enjoy when visiting?

MS: Some of our signature cocktails are Season of Luck, Marigold and Smoke, and Reengagement. We are also launching 8 new cocktails in June.

AM: For those who pop into lunch, what are dishes that we should eat when coming in with friends and family?

MS: The lunch menu is created mainly keeping a small budget and quick turnaround time for people to pick and go. We have the full dinner menu available for our sit-down guests also.

AM: For dinner, what are 3 appetizers that we should think about ordering?

MS: Lamb seekh Kebab, Pepper Prawns and Bhatti Murgh Chops. I always consider this to be a hard question as it's like being asked to pick which are your favorite children. I take great pleasure in serving dishes that I enjoy equally on the menu.

AM: For our main meal, what are 3 dishes that we can enjoy with friends and family?

MS: Our Shared Plates menu section was created on popular demand by Executive Chef Munny Passy for guests who told us they wanted Indian staples on the menu too, and we added curries for guests to share and enjoy. Guest favorites are Chicken Tikka Masala and Daal Makhani, and Whole Okra which I have not yet found on the menu at any other Indian restau-

rant - it is my mother’s recipe.

AM: For dessert what are 3 items that we should keep our eye on?

MS: Indian desserts are very sweet so we decided on keeping a few Gelatos to cater to our non-Indian guests, Daulat Ki Chaat, an old awadhi dessert; and Coconut Kheer for our dairy free guests.

AM: In addition to offering lunch and dinner, you guys have a brunch menu as well.

What are 3 brunch items that we should have?

MS: Our brunch menu came out of a failing American breakfast menu that we carried it for a while. Then the question became, “Why go to an Indian restaurant to have an American brunch menu?” so I turned my focus on serving what we normally eat in India for breakfast. Chef Munny and myself introduced Poori Aloo, Vada Pav, a Bun Omelette, and chola bhatura, along with the rest of our traditional Indian brunch menu, consisting of things one grew up on eating at the train stations and in college campus canteens, as well as weekends in our homes.

AM: You were recognized by Michelin last year, how does it feel to have your restaurant honored in this way?

MS: Humbling as being a foodie one tries to keep dishes as honest to their roots as possible, and the desire is to keep the guests happy with the flavor profiles at the menu choices and presentation.

IG @aroqanyc PHOTOGRAPHY CREDIT | aRoqa

ATHLEISURE LIST: Ibiza, Spain

PIKES IBIZA

Pikes Ibiza is a 25 bespoke room and suites hotel iconic Ibizan institution in the San Antonio hills that just opened for the 2022 season.

Ibiza is one of the world's most iconic rock n' roll hotels. Located in the hills of northern Ibiza, lush Mediterranean gardens are wrapped around one of the most famous swimming pools on Earth. They have a sunset terrace overlooking the countryside of Ibiza.

Top British chef, Tim Payne is helming Pamelas restaurant. Known for his 36year career in Michelin restaurants, a top UK chef and previously a private chef for Carl Cox - he will bring inspiring seasonal and local produce as well as an international twist to his dishes.

This is perfect for feasts and when dining under the stars.

It is known as creative hub and a trailblazer in Europe for arts and culture.

Founded in the late 1970's by legendary icon, Tony Pike, it is known as a playground for the music and film industry which included guests such as Grace Jones, Tony Curtis, George Mich ael (who filmed Wham's Club Tropicana video by the aquamarine swimming pool), Jon Bon Jovi and Freddie Mercury who held his 41st birthday part in what is now called Freddies on the property.

During the day, we suggest the brunch concept at Love Food Ibiza which is helmed by Tess Prince.

Recognized as a Top 100 Hotels in the world by Sunday Times Travel and winner of Best Boutique Hotel by White Ibiza Awards for the last 4 years, Pikes

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Although everyday is a great day to unwind, Sundays are a key day at Pikes Ibiza whether you're at the restaurants to take in their famous Pikes Sunday Roast which is a feast that is meant to be enjoyed from meat, veggies, wine and a few cocktails. You can continue on poolside to keep the party going while taking in the ambiance.

PIKES IBIZA Camí de Sa Vorera, S/N, 07820 Sant Antoni de Portmany, Illes Balears, Spain pikesibiza.com

On Sundays you can enjoy an epic night at Freddies as theu have selected a mix of international headliners, local DJs and special collaborators for a weekly party. You'll find their favorites, those from the underground, cutting edge, legends and pop stars in an intimate setting that will perform to keep the good vibes going.

Issue #77 | May 2022

@pikesibiza PHOTO CREDITS | PIKES IBIZA

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ATHLEISURE LIST: Venice, West Hollywood + South Bay, CA

PAUSE STUDIO

With a belief that due to our hyperconnected world that life has no off button, Pause creates the space needed for the mind and body to reset. With its 3 studios in LA all of their services assist both mental and physical recovery including: stress and anxiety relief, mental clarity, promotes better sleep, detoxification, elevated immunity, and aids in athletic/physical recovery.

you can increase your core body temperature by 2 to 3 degrees. This triggers a fever-like state in the body, increasing white blood cell production, and can help to flush out toxins and free radicals in the body.

Pause Studios offers flotation therapy where clients are partially submerged in 10" of clean, body-temperature water, custom blended with 1,200lbs of therapeutic Epsom salts. It can help with lymph drainage and promote the absorption of magnesium.

Cold-water therapy is also provided where guests can take a dip into cold water that is well below body temperature. This creates a rush of the blood to the body's core and constricts blood flow to the body's surface tissue. When the body is back to a heightened temperature, the blood vessels are able to dilate and push nutrient rich fresh oxygenated blood back through the body.

They also offer infrared saunas which allow you to experience a more intense sweat at a lower temperature. You can stay for a longer period of time so that

In addition, they offer whole body cryotherapy, IV drip and LED beds.

They continue to add additional modalities to the services offered. They

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continue to look for services that are science backed, live with and enhance the efficacy of the offerings and pass the vetting of their founders, their peer group and their Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine.

West Hollywood 937 North Sycamore West Hollywood, CA 90038 South Bay 850 Pacific Coast Highway South Bay, CA 90245

With a clientele that includes Tessa Thompson, Jessica Alba, Dax Shepherd, Kate Beckinsale, Rob Gronkowski and Anderson Silva to name a few, we can see why taking that time for ourselves is essential. The importance of the philosophy of rest, recovery and regeneration is one that we're all embracing regardless of what our day to day lives entails.

pausestudio.com @_pause.studio_ PHOTO CREDITS | Pause Studio

PAUSE STUDIOS Venice 13353 West Washington Blvd.

Venice, CA 90066 Issue #77 | May 2022

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In 2020, the first season of P-Valley, an adaptation of Olivier Award, Pulitzer Prize winning and 2X TONY nominated playwright Katori Hall's (The Mountaintop, Tina: Tina Turner Musical, The Hot Wing King) play Pussy Valley, premiered on STARZ. Katori serves as the Executive Producer and showrunner for this series.

This series takes us to the Mississippi Delta where local politics, a strip club and the need to elevate in society come to a head.

The sophomore season of P-Valley begins June 3rd and we caught up with some of our faves of The Pynk in Chucalissa, Mississippi. In our roundtable, we talked with Elarica Johnson (Eastenders, Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, A Discovery of Witches) who plays Autumn that we meet in the first season after running from her problems to the town of Chucalissa and becomes a dancer at The Pynk; Parker Sawyers (Succession, Snowden, A Discovery of Witches) who plays Andre Watkins who is an an associate at a commercial investment company trying to secure land for The Promised Land Casino and Resort. We also talk with Shannon Thornton (POWER, Dynasty, Inventing Anna) who plays Keyshawn a dancer at The Pynk who is also making her debut as an artist and J. Alphonse Nicholson (Mr.Robot, Self Made: Inspired by the Life of Madame C.J. Walker, Just Mercy) who plays the up and coming rapper, Lil' Murda.

We find out how they came to this series, why this show is powerful and what can we expect as we head into season 2.

ATHLEISURE MAG: It’s so great to talk to you guys and we've been a fan of your work in this series as well as other projects that you have been attached to. Before we delve into P-Valley and the upcoming season, what led you to want to be an actor?

ELARICA JOHNSON: Ohh I like this question! I was that performing artist kid – the annoying one that has to do performances at the age of 4 or 5. Then I watched Annie in the theater and saw this little girl doing this performance and I was like, oh

my God, I want to do that. And then I think that the biggest part is the storytelling. I loved reading stories when I was younger and the fact that I can dress up and be whoever is handed to me and to be who I want to be, that’s the most incredible thing.

PARKER SAWYERS: What’s the expression? Nothing is as queer as folk – nothing is as queer as people? I just love exploring humans man! We’re just a strange animal!

So far, my degrees are in philosophy and psychology. I like thinking and reading about people and then I didn’t start acting until I was 27. I’ve always been a keen observer of human behavior and just like – what? Why is that? I’ll give you an example. I was surprised by Katori, I think she had been out of her hometown for awhile like a decade! She had been in NY like Columbia, Harvard and this kind of stuff. And then, her accent is still quite strong! I love thinking about how she loves her hometown and she’s seeing all the stars, her place, the dialect – she loves it so much!

That accent isn’t going anywhere! Whereas some other people, they move and they want to assimilate – I live in London and some Americans, they want to feel part of the culture and it’s not on purpose but their accent will start to go British.

I love thinking about stuff like that and then putting it on screen whenever I get the chance.

SHANNON THORNTON: I wanted to be an actor since I was a kid. I have always just been a creative person. I don’t know if it’s because I’m a lefty as we’re always creatively and artistically inclined. I don’t know if that has something to do with it as well! I’ve always had a passion for drawing, I was involved in everything band, choir, drama club, African dance, ballet – anything that just involved being on the stage and performing. I was just a part of it and ever since I was a kid from my first play in middle school, I’ve always wanted to create and to express myself artistically. I really couldn’t see myself doing anything but what I am doing right now.

J. ALPHONSE NICHOLSON: For me, it came later in life. I’m a musician first, I’ve been a percussionist my entire life, but I will say that I have had a lot of artistic influences growing up from my mom writing church plays to being on a step team in high school to being in a marching band – so the showmanship was always there. Once I got to college, I was 18 at North Carolina Central University thinking that I was going to be a band teacher, I had a wonderful teacher come up to me and said that I should pursue this theater course and to audition for this play because I had a great personality. I did it and I fell in love with it. Here we are now at 32, 12 years later and I found a lot of success through storytelling and it just grew on me and I knew it was something that I was going to do for the rest of my life outside of any of my other endeavors. Storytelling is important to me and once you realize that you have a gift for it, it doesn’t feel like work – it’s something that you want to keep going after.

AM: I love that. What drew you guys to wanting to be part of P-Valley? I remember hearing about it before the 1st season dropped and I was excited. It sounded like it was going to be really good and when it came on, I was obsessed with this show and the characters! It was everything that I could have imagined and more.

EJ: I mean, I read this script and I fell in love very early on! I was like, this one’s for me – yes! The writing is amazing and Katori does an incredible job with the characters and the space and even the language – I had never seen it before. I knew that it had to be mine. You don’t see scripts like that very often.

PS: The same, the same! Elarica already said it, but as actors, I don’t know how many scripts we get and especially during busy months of the year, it can be 5 or 6 a week. I mean a lot of them look the same and I get confused! I’m like, did you already send me this one? But when I got P-Valley, it was so new and fresh – I got it and I understood it! Oftentimes, I don’t

understand some of the humor written down or something in the script. But this one I was like – oh that’s funny, I got this, that’s cool. Reading it I was like, that’s interesting and I know that and I know that world – a little bit. So that’s just something that just leapt out.

ST: The writing is what pulled me in for sure. As soon as you read the script, I remember going into my manager’s office one day to put myself on tape for another project that I was auditioning for and they were like, “listen, this came across our desk and I know you don’t do nudity and that you don’t play this type of character, but it’s definitely worth a read.” I read it on the train ride home as I was living in NY at the time and I cried. It was so beautiful and I hadn’t come across anything like that in my entire career up until that point. The characters are just so beautifully fleshed out and complicated and this world is just so real and familiar to me. I absolutely, despite my reservations, absolutely had to at least throw my hat into the ring and see.

JAN: Same! Katori Hall! The writing! I knew of her genius as a writer prior to coming to P-Valley. We both come from the theater world in NY. So I was very fond of her work and when the opportunity came to work with her and to have an opportunity to audition, we went for it and when you add in the complexity of playing Lil’ Murda right? Him being a closeted rapper so as a heterosexual man, you get a little apprehensive and say, “hey is this a story that I feel comfortable in telling” and then you do it and it's so rewarding! For me, I feel like I have played a part in being an ally in a really dope community and that’s what drew me to it. 1. being an ally through storytelling and then 2. just this incredible writing by Pulitzer prize winning Katori Hall.

AM: That's great. One of the things that we love about this show is that everyone is haunted by something in this series and they are trying to escape to other things in their life. Where did we leave your charac-

ters last season and where do we pick up with them again going into the 2nd season which launches next month?

EJ: I mean, when we left my character Autumn, she was at the auction house and I know that there are a lot of questions from fans on where is that situation now and does she really own this space now and what is her relationship like with Uncle Clifford (Nicco Annan – Snowfall, This is Us, Claws)? I can tell you that it’s very bumpy! She does own the majority of The Pynk and is in partnership with Uncle Clifford and she is the boss now. This is a huge difference from her 1st season but the space belonged to Uncle Clifford for so long and has been in her life for so long that this battle has been going on for a very long time.

PS: With Andre, we’ve seen him where we left off with him failing at a mission again.

We open up with him out of a job and sort of lost. And in my mind, a bit of a bum, overgrown and he’s stopped grooming himself and maybe stopped showering and maybe stopped washing his legs – I don’t know! He’s a bit lost, but then there’s something that happens that gets him out of it. Not immediately but it starts him on his path to getting back to himself.

But he does it quickly and it’s pretty impressive.

ST: Season 1 as far as Keyshawn, you last see her at The Pynk, she had at this point, pulled a gun on Diamond (Tyler Lepley 90210, The Haves and the Have Nots, Harlem) to protect her abusive boyfriend Derrick (Jordan Cox - TURN: Washington's Spies, Dynasty, The Outsider). We pick up where we left off, maybe a few months later where we are now in the throws of a pandemic and Keyshawn is dealing with the consequences of her actions. We see in season 2 whether or not she’s forgiven

by Diamond or forgiven by her co-workers at The Pynk and where the relationship stands or goes with Derrick.

JAN: We find Lil’ Murda in a similar place at the end where he’s trying to figure him-

self out and to find himself. We absolutely find him in the same place that we’re at right now, dealing with a pandemic and dealing with how to cope with that. By the time we get to the end of season 2, we see him in a much more clearer space with himself but still complicated and complex none the less. We see him go through this incredible journey as a musician, a lover, a friend as a big brother to Keyshawn and how he moves through that space. So we find them in a multitude of different levels and a lot of different levels and then we find out how they even that playing field for themselves.

AM: The cast is really great and as you're watching the story unfold, there are interesting dynamics between them. In terms of Autumn and Andre, there is a tension between them will we continue to see that as we continue into the next season?

For Keyshawn and Lil' Murda, there is a great vibe into your characters in their relationship as friends and business partners.

How will that evolve into the next season?

EJ: They do! They naturally have this thing.

They’re like magnets and they’re drawn to each other regardless of what they’re going through as there’s always going to be something. I think that that is definitely a strong factor in their relationship. Yeah, we see that in this season coming.

JAN: For sure, you see it grow immensely.

You see them become very fond of each other and what they are able to offer each other. Not only as business partners but as friends too right and as entertainers. I think that Lil’ Murda knows that he has to admit it to himself and his manager on the show that they can’t do that tour without Keyshawn. So we have to make that happen and then at the end of the day, I think that she knows and I don’t want to speak for her, but I feel like Lil’ Murda knows that Keyshawn knows that I am valuable to her. She feels like, “hey, he’s going to help me get out of these trenches – let’s go on tour and make that happen!”

I am valuable to her. She feels like, "hey, he’s going to help me get out of these trenches – let’s go on tour and make that happen!”

AM: Do you think that Keyshawn feels that way?

ST: Absolutely. Yes! We’re helping each other here. I think that being on tour is a kind of escapism and we were able to just escape reality for a little bit. It’s in the middle of the pandemic, but at the same time, we get to take that breather because we’re going on tour. You’ll see little texts and phone calls that bring us back to reality, but yeah absolutely.

AM: Looking past P-Valley, do you have any upcoming projects that you’re able to share that we can keep an eye out for?

PS: Oh man! The Lost Girls, that’s a movie that’s coming out. Look on my IMDB. Next week, I go off to Europe for a few months to do a couple of shows. I’m doing one for HBO Max and it’s set in the 1970s and it’s a spy thriller. Then I am also revisiting a character from a BBC show that I did in 2018 but because of the pandemic, we’re just getting around to being able to do the 2nd season! It’ll be cool, summer in Europe.

EJ: There’s nothing that I can talk about at the moment but I’m so thrilled to hear about what everyone is doing!

JAN: For sure, so I had an opportunity to work on a really cool project with John Boyega (Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens, Star Wars: Episode VIII – The Last Jedi, Star Wars: Episode IX – The Rise of Skywalker), Jamie Foxx (Horrible Bosses 2, Baby Driver, Spider-Man: No Way Home) and Teyonah Parris (If Beale Streets Could Talk, Wandavision, Candyman) called They Cloned Tyrone coming to Netflix this year.

I have 2 other projects that are in production right now and they are producer projects as well called Shadowbox with Hill Harper (Homeland, Super Pumped: The Battle for Uber, The Good Doctor) and

Joslyn Rose Lyons (Looking Glass, Waging Change, Truth to Power) she’s a writer and director of that project. So it’s in the festival circuit right now. The other 2 projects that I am doing right now haven’t had my characters be announced yet so I can’t wait for the audience and my fan base to get a hold of that!

ST: There are a couple of things that are in play right now, that I don’t want to jinx – they’re under wraps for the moment but I am very very excited and I don’t think that anyone will see me in quite this light before. @pvalleystarz @elarica @parkersawyers @shannonthornt_n @j_fonz PHOTOGRAPHY CREDITS | PG 100 - 111 STARZ/P-Valley

As most of us are enjoying warmer weather, it means we have so many options that are opening up to us! We caught up with model and star, Brooklyn Decker who plays Mallory Hanson of Netflix's Grace and Frankie to find out how she got into the industry starting as a model and continuing on as an actor. We talk about upcoming projects that she's working on, how she enjoys time with her husband, former #1 world champion and US Open tennis great Andy Roddick, as well as her children and how she is joining ZYRTEC and their ReLEAF Project in partnership with the American Forests.

This tree-planting initiative helps foster a better, healthier planet for all. Together, ZYRTEC® and American Forests are helping advance tree equity in historically excluded communities, so more individuals can reap the health and environmental benefits that trees can provide.

ATHLEISURE MAG: You started in the industry as a model and we remember your cover in Sports Illustrated in 2010 and have been in a number of films and TV series, what drew you to modeling and eventually transitioning into acting?

BROOKLYN DECKER: Gosh, I got so lucky!

For modeling, I was actually in the mall and someone came up to me. She was another model that I thought that I knew and she thought that she recognized me from modeling and we got to talking and she suggested that I should do it. It turns out, that because we ran track in high school, that’s why we looked familiar to each other. But that’s how I got into it because someone told me that I should explore it. As a kid growing up in Matthews, North Carolina, I didn’t think that that was an option or a career path that one could pursue. But for me, it felt like an incredible way for me to be able to travel! I had never been on a plane, I didn’t have a passport so it was a really great way for me to be able to see the world and also potentially as a way to pay for college which I ended up not even doing or going to. But that’s how it started!

Then when I was modeling, as much as I loved it, in that time it was different. You modeled, but your name wasn’t printed in magazines, you didn’t have a voice and all of my friends were in college and I was at home. I just really wanted to be able to talk! I started talking and working with an acting teacher just to have something to read and work on.

At that time online courses were super super new and you had to be a full time student to do that so online education wasn’t an option for me at the time. I studied acting kind of as a way just to have something to read, to do and to say. Then, I got really lucky and got my first gig and then I did a bunch of other gigs and got another gig and was rejected from many others and it’s kind of been a pattern for the last 17 years now!

AM: We just finished watching the final episode of Grace and Frankie! I’m so bummed as we know that this is the final season and there won’t be any other episodes and we're hoping that you guys will do a movie where you’ll pop in every now and then. What made you want to be part of this show? It’s such an incredible cast and it covers so many relevant topics that are shared in it.

BD: I was in Haiti. My manager and their friends were on the board of a non-profit so we were there doing some work.

I didn’t have any wi-fi access and my agent reached out to us and said there was this new show on Netflix that was casting and this was like early days of Netflix. They had House of Cards and Orange is the New Black. This would have been their first half hour comedy. And then he told me that it was starring Jane Fonda (Monster-in-Law, Lee Daniels’ The Butler, Book Club), Lily Tomlin (The West Wing, Desperate Housewives, Damages), Martin Sheen (The West Wing, The Departed, The Amazing Spider Man) and Sam Waterston (Law & Order, The Newsroom, The Dropout) and I said, I have to read for it!

Because there was no wi-fi, I couldn't

read the script so I didn’t know what it was or what the part was. I just knew that they were in it, so it must be great. At the time, Netflix was really edgy and we were all so curious about what they were going to do next and what they would create next. So I had to read for it before I knew anything about the series. Once I left Haiti, I was on an airplane and I read the pilot and thought that it was hilarious.

I just loved it. I loved the idea of this family comedy with a kind of heart and I hadn’t seen anything like that for a long time. It was a no brainer!

founders about what is going on in their companies and how I can be helpful.

Of course writing and I have to get outdoors at some point so there will be a neighborhood family walk or there is going to be an outdoor basketball game with the kids or a soccer game which my husband coaches my daughter’s team.

So we’re always getting outdoors and a hearty glass of wine at the end of the night with a good show for whatever my husband and I are bingeing at the moment. That’s like my dream day whenever I’m not on set.

AM: We love it and now that the show has ended, what can we expect to see you in next or what are you tackling now at the moment?

AM: Love that! You’ve been partnered with ZYRTEC for quite awhile and you’re helping them to get the word out on the importance of tree coverage and their partnership with American Forests, can you tell us more about that and then what the ReLEAF Project is?

BD: That’s a good question! During COVID, actually June Diane Raphael (Black Monday, Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues, Cheaper by the Dozen), who plays Brianna on Grace and Frankie she and I and another writer Asha Michelle Wilson (Scream Queens, Feud: Bette and Joan, American Horror Story), are writing something together. So we are currently pitching that.

It’s a very dark comedy and it’s nothing like Grace and Frankie at all. But we are pitching that as we speak. It’s something that we’ve worked on for the almost a year and a half. You may never hear about it again because it may never sell or you might hear that it’s sold and turning into a show. We’ll see!

AM: That sounds exciting and you’re a busy mom with children and a husband.

When you’re not on set, what’s a typical day like for you?

BD: Ooo my husband and I try to alternate travel. So if I’m not on set, that means I'm home and I’m taking my kids to school.

I recently started really exercising again so I fit in some weight lifting which is my favorite thing to do workout wise. I’ve invested in a lot of companies led by female founders and I have a few calls with founders every week that are sprinkled in regardless of filming so I will talk to a few

BD: Yes so ZYRTEC partnered with the American Forests to create the ZYRTEC ReLEAF Project which is all about providing funds for research and planting trees in historically excluded communities. When you look at tree equity which is a term frankly that was new to me, I looked at it as environmental injustice, where because of discriminatory redlining, there are certain communities that don’t have access to parks; therefore, their air isn’t as clean. There are higher cases of asthma, heating and cooling is more challenging, erosion is a greater issue and a lot of that can be greatly helped simply with trees. What I love about ZYRTEC is I have been using it for years and my doctor has recommended it when I started getting allergies as an adult and my kids use it as well. So we love it as a family, but also it's nice to be able to partner with a company and they have a real mission and a give back component. What I love about Zyrtec is that they’re saying that they are trying to give people relief so that they can enjoy the outdoors and that also includes giving communities relief so that they can enjoy the benefits of trees and nature. So, they are really committed to it

and they have already started planting trees where they have targeted 3 cities around the country and they’re going to continue to do that for the rest of the year.

AM: That’s a pretty big project and we didn’t realize the association between certain communities not having trees and what that means for them as well as the air that they’re breathing. That’s really exciting that they would do that initiative.

BD: I agree. Again, it was a term that I knew as environmental injustice and that it meant that there wasn’t a financial investment in parks, green areas and community gardens and all of that directly affects the health of its citizens.

So it’s nice to see companies taking that seriously and making that their mission and responsibility. @brooklyndecker PHOTOGRAPHY CREDITS | PG 120 - 125 Netflix/Grace & Frankie | PG 126 Zyrtec |

Who Can Receive a COVID-19 Vaccine?

COVID-19 vaccination is recommended for everyone ages 5 and older. You can get vaccinated if you have: Diabetes

Liver disease

A history of blood clots

Cancer

Seasonal allergies, such as a pollen allergy

Other health conditions

Asthma

Heart disease HIV

Kidney disease

Food allergies

Allergies to medicine taken by mouth

Already had a COVID-19 infection Plans to become pregnant, or are pregnant or breastfeeding

It is especially important for people with underlying health conditions to get vaccinated, as many are at increased risk of getting severely ill from COVID-19.

The only reason you may not be able to get a COVID-19 vaccine is if you are allergic to an ingredient in the vaccine or had an allergic reaction to a prior dose of a COVID-19 vaccine or to another vaccine or injectable medicine. Even if you have or had an allergy, you still may be able to get vaccinated, but you should talk to your health care provider before doing so.

COVID-19 vaccines do not contain preservatives, latex, eggs, mercury, fetal tissue or human cells, gelatin or other animal products, antibiotics, or microchips. Speak with your health care provider if you have questions about vaccination.

COVID-19 vaccines are free, safe and effective.

Get vaccinated today!

For more information, visit nyc.gov/covidvaccine.

The NYC Health Department may change recommendations as the situation evolves. 11.15.21

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America’s kids need us now.

Millions of children are losing the healthy meals they depend on as the coronavirus closes schools, but No Kid Hungry has a plan to feed them.

We’re working with school districts, local government and community groups across the country to ensure kids get the meals they need during school closures and all year long.

Find out how you can help at NoKidHungry.org

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Stay connected and follow us across our social channels on @AthleisureMag!

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BingelyBooks alized that she would take on a decision that would make her stop running from herself and life.

She takes us from her early beginnings in Central Falls, Rhode Island to owning the stage in NYC and beyond. She shows how she found herself, claimed her space and made those listen who didn't see her when she made her presence known.

In analyzing her path, Viola Davis allows us to think about how we navigate our own lives. She also looks at the duality of who we are versus how the world labels us once they believe they know who they think we are. Her hope is that through her journey, others can look at how they define themselves and to provide the proper self-love that they derserve.

ART OF TEA: A JOURNEY OF RITUAL, DISCOVERY, AND IMPACT Lioncrest Publishing Steve Schwartz

FINDING ME: A MEMOIR HarperOne Viola Davis

We have been long-time fans of award winning actress and producer, Viola Davis.

She is known for taking on dramatic roles and bringing her characters' essence to the front of our minds. In Finding Me: A Memoir, we meet her as a little girl where she had a decision to make when she reAthleisureMag.com

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We love a great cup of tea and we had the pleasure of interviewing the founder of Art of Tea and Master Tea Blender, Steve Schwartz for our AUG ISSUE #56 in 2020 and our podcast, Athleisure Kitchen. In his debut book, Art of Tea: A Journey of Ritual, Discovery, and Impact, he shares about how he obtained his passion for tea and founded Issue #77 | May 2022

Neither could imagine how their lives would change.

In Cleopatra and Frankenstein, we delve into the lives of both of these characters while seeing those that they are associated with. We learn the complexities of interpersonal relationships and how we go about navigating life when it throws curves into how we would like to live our lives. We see how an impulsive and convenient decision can create issues that we can't resolve easily.

his award-winning international tea brand. He explored the notion of impact by creating a tea ritual in one's day to enjoy creating a powerful, timeless and analog experience.

You'll find brewing tips for recipes while also learning how he grew his business that is a network of relationships with Google, #Slack, Caesars Palace, The Peninsula Hotels, The Getty and more.

CLEOPATRA AND FRANKENSTEIN Bloomsbury Publishing Coco Mellors

When the opportunity for a Green Card presents itself for 24 year old Cleo a painter, in her marriage to Frank who is 20 years older and financially successful.

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BingelyStreaming man, played by Bob Odenkirk (Fargo, Breaking Bad, Nobody).

This final season has brought a number of our favorite characters together as well as other glimpses of those that we have not seen in awhile. In this timeline, we're still ahead of the events that will take place in Breaking Bad. As we wonder whether we will see Walter White (Bryan Cranston - Breaking Bad, Your Honor, El Camino: A Breaking Bad Movie) and Jesse Pinkman (Aaron Paul - Big Love, Westworld, The Path) With 13 episodes in the final season and a mid-season break as well, it's the perfect time to make sure that you catch up with the cartel, legal maneuvers and more.

THE STAIRCASE Max Original HBO Max

BETTER CALL SAUL The Final Season AMC/AMC+ We can't believe that it's the final season of Better Call Saul. The last few seasons we have watched the transformation of Jimmy McGill to who we will know as Saul Good-

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True crime is always our go-to genre when we're listening to our podcasts. There are a number of cases that we have heard told on various shows and The Staircase happens to be one of them. It's also a story that has been covered via duocumentaries as well as films. HBO Max's limited series of The Staircase shares the incidents that led to the death of Michael Peterson's (Colin Firth - Kingsman: The Secret Service, Bridget Jones's Baby, Kingsman: The Golden Circle) wife, Kathleen (Toni Collette - Pieces of Her, Knives Out, Nightmare Alley).

We're introduced to the family,

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their life prior to the murder as well as seeing the possible ways that she could have died. We also see how the family dynamics changed as Michael is charged with her death.

We also find out about other suspiscious activity that he has been associated with and how this could shine a light on her death of this true story.

To complete his challenge he wanted to climb Washington's Bulger List, the highest 100 peaks in the state, a lifetime challenge for most that attempt it but Jason, being a teacher, only has 50 days in the summer to complete it.

JOURNEY TO 100 WZRD Media Youtube In Journey to 100, Jason Hardrath a PE teacher, has a car accident which turns his world around. Even though his doctors think that he will never run again, 7 years later he has the most FKTs (Fastest Known Times - established route at least 5 miles long with 500+ ft of climbing) of anyone on earth and is looking to be the first person ever to set 100 FKT records.

This documentary shares his story.

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