Athleisure Mag #24 Dec 2017

DEC 2017

#TribeGoals @AthleisureMag

PUBLISHER Paul Farkas

EDITORIAL Kimmie Smith

Fashion Editor + Style Director

Paul Farkas

Artistic Director + Tech Director

FASHION CONTRIBUTIONS PHOTOGRAPHER | Scott Bonnie | James Clark | Marco David | Matt Doyle |Paul Farkas | Sophy Holland | STYLIST | Kimmie Smith |

BEAUTY CONTRIBUTIONS MUA | Nydia Figueroa | HAIR | Zullay Sevilla |

CONTRIBUTORS | Chef Rosalie |

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info@athleisuremag.com

@ATHLEISUREMAG CONNECT + VISIT

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NERVO Yo

PHOTOGRAPHY Paul Farkas STYLIST Kimmie Smith MUA Nydia Figueroa HAIR STYLIST Zullay Sevilla

O ork We end our year the way we began it - with NERVO, but this time, in addition to our interview, we hung out with them right before their Lavo NYC show to shoot the International EDM DJ duo.

Liv and Mim have been traveling, DJing around the world, releasing new music and continuing to connect with their fans.

We brought them to Grammy winner and music icon, Desmond Child's home (we have an exclusive interview with Desmond following this interview), which was the perfect location for this shoot. We talked with them about what they're up to, who they've been working with, where they'd like to perform, their upcoming show for NYE at the W in Miami and what festivals you'll see them in during 2018.

ATHLEISURE MAG: We kicked off the year with an interview with you ladies and it's only fitting that we close it with you as well as you're gracing our Dec cover - what has been a snapshot of this year from what you were up to personally, musically, - whatever you wish to share.

NERVO: We have had a year of absolute madness. Lots of great things going on that we just need to pinch ourselves sometimes. We also are just doing our best to keep our heads above water

and enjoy the little moments you know… We think all touring artists or just busy people in general are the same. There’s a lot of pressure mixed with a lot of adrenaline filled moments.

It can be a lot sometimes!

AM: You ladies are multiple threats as you're DJ's, producers, songwriters, composers, models, brand ambassadors, etc., so it was only fitting to have you shoot in Desmond Child's home - can you share some of your projects that you did this year or next year?

N: Tell us about it - Desmond Child is a total legend. What an honour to be shooting in his home! Love how we decked his house out.

So… We released a bunch of music this year, including a few collabs - one with New York based band Sofi Tukker and some others with more dance artists like DVBBS and Danny Avila, Oh, and then there’s the collab we wrote with Cheif Keef which was pretty special!

We have been touring mainly Europe for the summer, but we also have our residency at Omnia in Las Vegas, which gets us over to The USA about 16 times a year.

We have a bunch of new songs in the works which we are focusing in on now. Quarters 4 and 1 are always for making new music and that means touring a bit less.

AM: What's the process like when you're creating your music and how is it different when you're creating something for another artist?

N: We’re more relaxed when we make music for others or even for a collaboration. Something about it being less pressure. When it’s your own record suddenly you feel like people are going to hate on you if they don’t like it. It’s a part time job blocking out that noise!

AM: How do you go about finding inspi-

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ration for upcoming projects?

N: We are constantly inspired. To be honest we don’t have enough time to not be inspired. We have so many unfinished ideas that we just need an extra 2 days a week to finish. We must be ADHD or something.

AM: What is a NERVO Christmas like do you make it home to Australia for the holiday, do you guys cook and what gifts are you looking for this year?

N: It’s pretty low key and is the same every year. We have a huge lunch in our family home in Melbourne, then we all go to our Aunty Mary and Uncle Max’s home for more food, and then we eventually pass out around 10pm with belly’s so full that we couldn’t dream of eating dinner! Leftovers are eaten for the next 4 days or so. We are Italian/Australian so there’s always SO much food!

AM: This NYE, where are you playing and what about 2018 makes you excited to ring it in?

N: We are playing Miamiiiiiii! At the W Hotel. We can’t wait!! Miami is just the best for New Year's Eve. We think we might hang around a few days and have some beach time and Cuban food.

AM: What's on your playlist at the moment that gets you up and moving?

N: Massively inspired by what Jax Jones is doing at the moment. Sampling Booka Shade and flipping it into a 2017 anthem! Go JJ! AM: Where are some festivals/cities that you'll be hitting this year that we can expect to see you performing at?

N: We are playing Tomorrowland in Belgium again. Always a yearly highlight! We are also playing Creamfields in South America. And of course everyone can catch us at Ushuaia in Ibiza

and Omnia/Hakkassan in The USA for our residencies.

AM: What is a gig that you would like to do ie. Super Bowl Half Time show, that you have yet to be asked to do but want to check off your bucket list?

N: Probably Coachella. It’s such a great festival and one of the only ones we have never been asked to play at. We don't think they like us. ha! Maybe we're too bubbly or mainstream or something... We dunno. But we have been to the festival and it's such a great vibe. Always perfect weather.

AM: You're rocking a lot of fun styles throughout our Dec cover shoot, but what is your personal style when you head out to play a set for NYE versus when you're hanging out?

N: We like to dress things up when we play a gig. We love body suits, lycra, face jewels, creepers, teased up hair, more is more. When we are hanging out we’re a lot more chilled and casual - for example we are loving the Fenty clothes that we wore in the shoot for our travel/studio days!

AM: You guys travel a lot, what are your 3 musts that you take with you no matter what city you're rocking in to feel like you're at home?

N: Iijin snake skin silver and gold shoes (for Liv), Hairspray (for Mim), and our laptops (for both of us).

AM: The Winter Olympics are coming up and we're fans of curling, what teams/sports are you cheering for?

N: Ooohh we’ll have to check it out!!

We do love to ski so that’s something we would like to watch. Does Australia even have a team ? If Australia is competing then we would have to go for them but if they don’t then we would go for Italy because that is where our parents were born :).

NERVO YORK CREDITS COVER + PG 14 | FENTY X PUMA Blocked Track Jacket + Blocked Taped Track Pant | OUTDOOR VOICES Sport Bra | FENTY X PUMA AnkleStrap Sneaker | FENTY X PUMA Monday Cap | | FRAME Le Original Patch Jacket | FENTY X PUMA Hooded Zip Front Leotard | FENTY X PUMA Printed Bra | RUBEN GALARRETA Legging Harness | PG 16 | BLACK MILK Fatale Dress | LAGOS JEWELRY Black Beaded Caviar Bracelet | ARTISTS' OWN Wrapped Bracelet, Charm Bracelet, Watch + Hat | PG 19 | MCM Shearling Bag | ARTISTS' OWN Bra, Shorts + Scarf | PG 20 | SPLENDID Racerback Turtleneck Sport Bra | ELIZABETH ACKERMAN Palazzo Palm Pants | DIANA ROSH FUR Olive + Blue Fur Coat | LOVE KNITZ Hat | PG 21 | DIANA ROSH FUR Multicolor Coat | HAT ATTCK Arm Warmers | MIRA RAE Velvet Leggings | MCM Shearling Hat | PG 22 | ROMPLY Blush Wrap Romper | HAT ATTACK Hat | LAGOS JEWELRY Ring | ARTISTS' OWN Bra | PG 25 | ROMPLY Navy/Gold Tapestry Romper | NINA JEWELRY Swarovski Bangle | MCM Polke Backpack in Starry Eyed Bunny | ARTISTS' OWN Marcher Jacket | Athleisure Mag readers know that a number of our shoots take place in luxury apartments that have yet to be released to the public or are being sold. We tend to maintain the privacy of the homeowners; however, this shoot was perfectly aligned as it took place at Grammy-winning and Emmy-nominated songwriter/ producer Desmond Child's home!

He is one of the most accomplished hit-makers, having written and produced more than eighty Billboard Top 40 hits

spanning five decades including "Livin' On A Prayer”, “You Give Love A Bad Name”, “I Was Made For Lovin' You”, “Dude Looks Like A Lady”, “Livin’ La Vida Loca,” and “Waking Up In Vegas.”

From Aerosmith to Zedd, his genre-defying collaborations also include Bon Jovi, KISS, Motley Crew, Joan Jett, Cher, Michael Bolton, Cyndi Lauper, Ricky Martin, Christina Aguilera, Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood, Garth Brooks, Meat Loaf, Selena Gomez, Katy Perry, Sia, Mickey Mouse and Kermit the Frog, selling over 500 million records worldwide as well as downloads, YouTube views and streaming plays already in the billions. His upcoming autobiography LIVIN' ON A PRAYER: BIG SONGS BIG LIFE with David Ritz is scheduled for release in the Fall 2018. Desmond Child was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2008 and serves on its Board of Directors as well as the Board of ASCAP. In 2012 he co-founded the Latin Songwriters Hall of Fame and serves as its Chairman/CEO. He is also Chairman of The Fountains of Musica Foundation, who’s mission is to complete Alan LeQuire's aquatic bronze masterpiece MUSICA located at the entrance to Nashville’s Music Row. ATHLEISURE MAG: It was an honor to shoot in your beautiful home and NERVO was very excited to see that they were in your apartment. Please share with our readers about how you got into the music business and whom you have worked with.

DESMOND CHILD: My beautiful mother, the late Cuban poet and Bolero composer Elena Casals, was always writing her romantic and soulful songs at her old upright piano on the dairy farm in Hawthorn, Florida, where I was born in 1953. At that time, I didn’t know that most people don’t write songs as a natural expression of the ups and downs of ordinary life. I would sit on my mother's lap at the piano and bang out long unrepeatable

classical sounding improvisations. As soon as I could sit upright, she would make me play for her bohemian friends sitting around on the floor smoking and drinking during the Mad Men era when that was actually still good for you.

Not being able to afford a gift, I wrote my first official pop song titled “Birthday Blues” at the age of 15 in 1968 as a birthday tribute to a beautiful girl I was trying to impress named Laura Stern. After that, I never looked back and kept writing songs all the way into the Songwriters Hall of Fame, where I was inducted into in 2008. That only took 40 years. ;) ATHLEISURE MAG: Your home is awesome and there were so many elements that were amazing, but we all enjoyed your piano - when did you decide that you would have these notable talents sign your piano, and are there signatures that you have yet to get, but still want to have in there?

DC: It was a random day, and I was walking down 57th Street, and when I got to the Steinway showroom, I looked through the window and saw this gorgeous Steinway D lit up like it was on a stage. I went in, sat down at it, and it seemed to just play itself. I ended up buying it on the spot, but I had to put it in storage for 2 years while my apartment was being renovated. When the time finally came to move-in the piano, I had to hire a crane to lift it up on its side in a massive wooden crate and slip it through the living room window.

It was an incredible feat that tied up Fifth Avenue traffic and pissed-off a lot of people.

As soon as I started doing writing sessions with top stars or important visitors, I would ask them to write their names in the piano along with the date.

It started to get crowded in there and some names are completely unrecog-

nizable, so I guess I will have to create a map of the stars to keep track of them all.

These are the names I would love to have in the piano: Joni Mitchell, Sir Elton John, Aretha Franklin, Jennifer Hudson, Sade, Imogen Heap, Paul Stanley & Gene Simmons, Beyonce & Jay Z, Steven Tyler, and Joe Perry.

As soon as I could sit upright, she would make me play for her bohemian friends sitting around on the floor smoking and drinking during the Mad Men era when that was actually still good for you.

AM: Are there projects that you are working on that you can share with us?

DC: I am just putting the finishing touches on my auto-biography - LIVIN' ON A PRAYER: BIG SONGS BIG LIFE with David Ritz. I hope to release in the fall of 2018.

AM: What is currently on your playlist?

DC: I only play two records ever… AMOROSO by Jaoa Gilberto, produced by my dear late friend Tommy LiPuma, and Sade’s epic LOVE DELUX. Over the past 5 years I’ve added Concha Buika’s rare but exquisite albums. Any other music I hear is by accident.

AM: With New Years Eve just around the corner, what's the perfect playlist

that we should be creating to celebrate the end of 2017 and the start of 2018?

DC: Any of Amy Grants 5 Christmas albums. Amy is my husband Curtis’ favorite artist of all time…. It just ain’t Christmas without Amy Grant.

We enjoyed finding out more about Desmond Child and his home which is currently on the market. We sat down with Louise Phillips Forbes of Halstead properties to find out more about 1215 Fifth Avenue #8CD as well as the neighborhood it resides in.

ATHLEISURE MAG: There are so many great aspects to this apartment, from its layout to the INCREDIBLE views of Central Park - what can you tell us about this property?

LOUISE PHILIPS FORBES: What’s not to envy in this exceptional home?! It’s a full-floor combination apartment with panoramic views of Central Park that are breathtaking year-round, and an abundance of custom designer details like art-deco moldings and Venetian plaster walls. The grand and expansive formal living room is an entertainer’s dream with four large picture windows (manufactured by Hope's) facing west, high-beamed ceilings and a statuesque wood-burning fireplace. Plus, the spectacular views carry through to the formal dining room. A peaceful retreat, the master suite also showcases the Central Park views and features superbly crafted built-ins and an oversized walk-in closet that resembles a luxury boutique. You can escape to the spa in the elegant Vitrolite tile and Terrazzo master bathroom with a deep soaking tub, double sink vanity, walk-in steam shower, and heated floors. But it's the park views that will transport you to another world. A culinary delight, the eat-in chef's kitchen is the heart of the home with an open design that includes a substantial casual dining/living and media area. Kitchen highlights are the sophisticated Ter-

razzo countertops, abundance of pantry storage cabinets, and high-end appliances. A coveted laundry room holds the side-by-side and full-size Miele washer and Asko dryer with a sink and storage. To top it off, there is a new state-of-the-art Lutron lighting system and Crestron integrated surround audio system with built-in speakers all through the apartment.

Two oversized bedrooms and a second full bathroom complete the home with through-wall AC's in every room and great closets throughout. It’s pretty close to perfect!

AM: What amenities are offered in this building for residents?

LFP: A pre-war treasure, the Brisbane House at 1215 Fifth Avenue was developed and built in 1928 by distinguished journalist and columnist for Hearst newspapers, Arthur Brisbane, and designed by the renowned architectural firm Schultze & Weaver. The beautiful 16-story limestone-and-caramel-brick building boasts an elegant lobby and full-service amenities, including 24hour doorman, live-in superintendent, private courtyard, fitness area, central laundry room, personal storage, bike storage, and pet-friendly attitude.

AM: Tell us about the neighborhood that is directly around this building and what neighborhood is this considered?

LFP: A premier residence nestled near Carnegie Hill, this elegant gem is conveniently located across from Central Park and along Museum Mile with easy access to world-class exhibits at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Guggenheim Museum, and the Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian Design Museum, among others. Fifth Avenue and Madison Avenue beckon with high-end boutique shopping and fine art galleries, plus there is an abundance of distinguished restaurants, charming cafes, gourmet grocers, supermarkets, Equinox Fit-

ness Club, the 92nd Street Y, and many popular retail destinations.

AM: For those that are interested in purchasing this unit, how can they find out more information?

LFP: It would be very easy to call this stunning apartment home given the grandeur of the rooms, designer details throughout, and abundance of Central Park views! To schedule an appointment, simply contact me directly and I will be happy to give you a private tour and discuss the purchasing details. You can reach me via email at lphillips@halstead.com or at 212-3813329.

AM: Where can readers find out about additional properties that you represent?

LFP: Visit my website at http://louisephillipsforbes.com/ and click on the tab for “My Listings”. You can view pictures, 3D floor plans, and videos along with detailed descriptions of each property I’m working with from downtown to uptown. The available homes range from a three-bedroom loft apartment in Tribeca to a 6-story grand townhouse on the Upper East Side.

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FROM LA WITH LOVE Gia Mantegna

When you grow up in a creative family, you get to try your hand at a number of things to find out what works for you.

Gia Mantegna grew up in the industry and has been acting since she was a kid, is a singer and in addition to her roles, can say that she has been able to spend quality time on set as a fellow actor with her dad, Joe Mantegna in the nail biting series, Criminal Minds.

We sat down with Gia to talk about how she got into actiing, what it's like to be on Criminal Minds, playing dramatic characters with a twist, her new show that is available now on CW Seed, what's going on with her music and some of her go to places in LA as well as when she's here in NYC. ATHLEISURE MAG: When did the acting bug hit you?

GIA MANTEGNA: I started acting at a really young age in school. I think I was about 11 when I started theater and that’s kind of where I got the bug.

I had obviously grown up in the business because my dad is an actor.

AM: We’re huge fans of him!

GM: Yeah, yeah me too! Growing up around that environment and being in that industry it was just something that was second nature to me. And I was like, "when is it my turn?" Being the second born child and always wanting attention, I was known for having this personality and having a need to be heard. The only outlet for that was to sing and to perform - so that’s how it started. Then after doing theater, I started working in film and going to TV and auditioning. It hasn’t stopped yet – knock on wood.

AM: What are some of the roles that you have been in?

GM: My first big gig was a Christmas film called Unaccompanied Minors which was a film directed by Paul Feig.

He did Bridesmaids, The Heat, Ghostbusters (Kristen Wiig and Melissa McCarthy) etc. That was my introduction into really working in Hollywood. It was such a great experience working with Paul and the cast. That was a fun role for me and I have done a lot of spots on TV. I’m really drawn to the darker roles naturally. I am a positive person, but I love those really weird roles. I did a role on Perception where I played this girl who swallowed knives and it was a strange one, but I loved it. Now comedy is where things are going for me which I also love because it’s harder and comedic timing is hard to do. The dramatic roles come easier to me but comedy is where I am falling into and where the world is going, it’s nice to laugh a little bit.

AM: How much has your father been an influence on your roles and how has it been also appearing on Criminal Minds with him?

GM: YES oh my gosh. I can’t watch Criminal Minds – I live alone with a cat!

AM: When we travel, it’s always on as a marathon and we get sucked in, but we have to have a buddy and the lights on to watch it!

GM: Oddly enough, I never worked with him on the show. When I first auditioned for the show, I was 17 there was a different actor playing my father and I never had any scenes with him.

Then one day, the writers came to me with an idea where my character came back with Aubrey Plaza’s character as they wanted two strong female characters to come back to shake up the team. Aubrey and I came out to do it and I didn’t have any good dialogue with my dad, but there was this scene where he pointed a gun at me which was really exciting as that is always fun to work with a family member holding a gun in your face. I mean when is that

going to happen? Hopefully not. But it was great because I have worked on a number of shows, but Criminal Minds – that cast is such a tight knit group, they’re a family. They get along and it’s been running for so long which is a testament to how great it is to be able to step into that show for a few weeks. It was the greatest gig in the world and to be able to hang out with my dad for a bit. The character was fun too as she was psychotic!

AM: Tell us about CW Seed and how we can watch it?

GM: A lot of networks have digital platforms as I think that they are trying to compete with Netflix and things like that. CW Seed (shows you can catch: Riverdale, Original Dynasty) is CW’s answer to that. It’s their digital platform where they create new media and they also run shows that have already been out on the website. You can watch on their website or their app.

Our show, Life After First Failure has myself and Breanne (who plays my best friend on the show), we received the script and we loved that there were two strong female characters shaking things up – we fell in love with it. We did 3 episodes in Portland and CW Seed ended up breaking it up into 6 episodes - to make it more palatable for the audience.

The dramatic roles come easier to me, but comedy is where I am falling into and where the world is going to, it's nice to laugh a little bit.

The way it seems to be going is that it’s all about quick easy content for quick gratification. At first, I was a little disappointed, but it’s the way that things are going now. I like longer episodes, but the younger generation is easily bored and when they’re bored, you lose your audience. But the character was so much fun to play and it was different and new. Honestly it was one of my favorite people to play.

AM: Is there a second season coming out?

GM: In a perfect world, yes – the hope was that the network would see that there was a strong response to it – but they’re kind of new. So a lot of it has been left to us and social media has really helped in terms of campaigning for the show. We definitely want to come back to do more episodes – right now we’re not sure so we want people to watch and tweet to request more episodes.

AM: We know that you are also a singer can you tell us about how you started that and what your plans are?

GM: I was always singing at a young age.

My parents threw me into everything soccer, piano, saxophone etc. Singing stuck with me – my sister and I took lessons at a very young age. Both of my parents have a musical background and it was just one of those things that I always kept in my back pocket, but I was too scared to use and then it got to a point that I really wanted to do a show so I got a producer and a band and we put it together with a show at The Whiskey in LA. It was so great, but there aren’t really any plans as I was starting to work on an album and then acting picked up, but it's always somethign I go back to. Right now, I record things and sell them to shows and just kind of do it as a hobby.

AM: What is the genre?

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GM: It ended up being a rock show when I was at The Whiskey. But the song I’m most proud of, ‘I Won’t Wait’ it’s alternative/electronic. It has a cool vibe to it as I’m inspired by Banks and Tove Lo - just I love that electronic ease and fun. But when I get back into singing, I want to do a lot of oldies covers as I listen to a lot of 70s music. I love Top 40, but I’m inspired by that era. I have been listening to a lot of THEM (Van Morrison’s old band) lately and I thought it would be really fun to do a lot of covers of music that my parents grew up with as that's what I listened to growing up.

ing yoga for so long that I just do it on my own and I just do it in my trailer.

Now that I have this amazing cat in my life, I love meditating and doing yoga at home. I don’t do any high impact – I don’t. I can’t do it because I have this really weird jaw issue which is a severe form of TMJ where I have to get injections in my masater muscles. So when I do anything high impact the stress goes to my neck and my face and then I have to go to the Chiropractor and it becomes this whole thing. Everthing is low impact and easy – I walk a lot and although LA is not a walking town, I live in West Hollywood so I can do that.

AM: What is your personal style when you're going out for brunch versus when you're having a night out?

AM: What charity/philanthropy do you do?

GM: It doesn’t change – it’s always the same – I’m all black everything – it makes doing laundry very easy. I always dress for winter or fall – I wear Doc Martins all the time, I live in them.

I love skinny jeans and a baggy sweatshirt on top. I love jewelry which allows me to go a little crazy and I love makeup! My sister and I went to makeup school just for fun and my sister was really into it – she has autism and is really high functioning, but my parents didn’t want her to go alone so I went as her pal and I ended up loving it. I love playing with makeup looks and it taught me what I could do with makeup – so it’s all about the accessories.

AM: How do you take time for yourself in the midst of your busy schedule?

GM: It’s interesting as an actor, you’re your own boss and there is going to be downtime so you’re always trying to stay proactive. I do piano as much as I can to stay with my music.

I do meditate - big meditator. I tried running for 5 mins. - it was horrible, but I really love yoga. There is a huge yoga culture in LA - which I know is everywhere as well. But I have been do-

GM: Because my sister has autism, I have always been involved in that as it has been a big part of my life and to give back to the community. My family and I do not support Autism Speaks as they have paid celebrities to do endorsements which makes sense, but many don't know what they're talking about and funds have gone to the CEOs and very little of the money is going to autism research. More grass roots oranizations is where we go and my dad does a lot of work with veterans so anything that involves them and the military, I am all about it. Autism is big for me and there isn’t one that I champion specifically.

AM: What's on your playlist?

GM: I’ve been listening to a lot of THEM, Van Morrison, Bob Dylan – I went to a concert of his last year and it was so great. I just really love him.

Let me grab my phone out. I love Tove Lo and Banks of course. A lot of oldies - OH - Roy Orbison - he's the best for the holidays - I really love his stuff and I have been getting obsessed with Chris Isaak again. OH Tom Jones is my go to when I'm getting ready, I go to Spotify, put in Tom Jones and listen to everything. It gets crazy and my dad

makes fun of me and asks, “why do you listen to my music?” I love it and everything coming out lately now – it’s cool to vibe out to in the background, but I don’t connect with it and it’s not inspirational to me.

AM: When you're in LA, what's 1 place you work out, 1 place you eat at 1 place you shop? What version do you have for that here in NYC? GM: The answer to most of those questions is home, home, home haha.

In NY, I go to McSorley’s Old Ale House - I was just there last night with my mom and my sister. So only in NY would this take place, we met these two guys where one had just broken up with his wife and one with his girlfriend and they wanted to recreate this picture that they had taken when they were with them at the same bar a few years prior! One ex was blonde and one was brunette and we re-created the picture.

In LA, people are very "don’t talk to me," but in NY it’s so different and they were from Orange County. It was hysterical and the picture was identical and I even arranged everything on the table the same way. McSorley's is my go to.

In LA, I go anywhere although there is this cool Australian bar called The Eveleigh. Serafina just opened in LA so I love that – they’re on Sunset. I work out at home in LA so I just go outside as there is so much hiking you can do and I want to try boxing. For shopping, I am all about ASOS – they have great stuff, affordable and they always have black options. In NY it’s anywhere.

I’m obsessed with shoes, so any shoe store. I love Opening Ceremony and I love Soho in general. Evolution is here and I love them, we have something similar in LA called Necromance, but I haven’t bought anything. Where am I going to put taxidermy squirrels?

My God mom has a store in Toluca Lake near my parents house called Pergolina and she has these beautiful taxidermy animals which she gets from Necromance. Her store is where I get my jewelry and I wear these bracelets all the time. But I’m not a big shopper – I’m an eater – I love to eat. My mom has a restaurant in Burbank called Taste Chicago.

AM: Wait we have heard of Taste Chicago!

GM: I know a lot of people think that it’s my dad’s, but it’s my moms!

AM: Which one is from Chicago?

GM: Both – my whole family is from Chicago and here. We’re here because one of my family members just bought a house in New Jersey. We’re the only ones in LA. We needed to bring Chicago to LA. AM: So what are we ordering at Taste Chicago?

GM: Chicago dogs, Sicilian Pan Pizza, Deep Dish, Italian Beef, everything – it’s hard core. You don’t go there to get a salad, you go there to work! But I actually prefer NY style pizza haha but I go there for the Italian Beef.

Photo Credits | PG 38, 42 + 45 Marco David | PG 41 Scott Bonnie |

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ATHLEISURE LIST: NYC

YOGA UNWINED When you're selecting a workout studio or method, it's about finding a class that fits what you're interested in targeting as well as what fits your mood at the moment. A few weeks ago, we took our first Yoga Unwined class, which is founded by Morgan Perry and yes this combines yoga and wine together in a responsibile and fit way!

tively taste two different expressions of the wine you just learned about and are able to see, smell and taste firsthand what is learned on the mat.

In New York City, they have partnered with The Arlo Hotel for their series - Bubbles & Brunch (look for these monthly classes in 2018). Students can book a package that includes a Yoga Unwined class (focusing on sparkling wine), followed by bottomless brunch at Arlo Nomad's restaurant, Massoni.

Recently, they concluded a series with Outdoor Voices and have partnerships with several yoga studios, such as Yoga Vida, with bi-monthly workshops. In January, classes will be held at Lululemon and SOLACE.

Yoga Unwined is a yoga and wine education company. The classes weave together vinyasa-based yoga and fun wine facts through creative yoga poses. Each hour long educational class ends with a meditative wine tasting, inviting you to mindfully taste what's in your glass while applying what you learned through the poses.

Expansion for Yoga Unwined will take place in Austin, TX due to the founder being from Texas. After the success of an event held in Austin this past summer, she will be offering a course this Feb at Austin Winery.

Morgan worked in wine marketing for a decade and fell in love with wine when she had the chance to visit wineries and vineyards in Chile on a press trip. She came back to New York and started taking wine classes to learn more, and has been hooked ever since. She had practiced yoga for the past seven years. When she left her job in 2016, she immediately enrolled in an immersive yoga teacher training program. It was during this time that she created a yoga class that included wine education.

YOGA UNWINED Visit the website to find out more about Yoga Unwined series in NYC and additional cities. For those that are members of private clubs or luxury buildings, you can find out when they are coming to these locations as well.

Each class focuses on one grape varietal (like Pinot Noir or Chardonnay) or category (like rosĂŠ or sparkling wine), so you will get a chance to learn about 20 facts about that particular wine. Instructors discuss some basic, but fun facts, which can include winemaking information, tasting notes, food pairings and more. These facts are woven seamlessly into the yoga flow, which is about 45 minutes long. After a five minute savasana or breathing meditation, you have the chance to comparaAthleisureMag.com

www.yogaunwined.com

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ATHLEISURE LIST: NYC

TROOPER FITNESS The holiday season is a great time to meet with friends and family and the ability to eat and drink is never ending! The good times don't mean that you have to abandon the gym. When it's time to get right back at it (or to keep it up), it's time to make your way to Trooper Fitness which opened November 2015 on the UES (there are plans to expand beyond this location).

Fight Camp, OCR (Obstacle Course Training), Trooper Boot Camp and Trooper Run Con Camp.

Beyond group classes or Trooper Camps which focus on strength and high intensity classes, you can also have private classes whether you do this solo or you opt to get your friends and co-workers together to get in a much needed sweat session.

There are a number of options that are available in terms of class offerings. Their Trooper Camps are high-energy, motivational workouts guided by certified coaches. These camps are geared towards fitting personalized programs for each individual’s goals while being done in a group training format. The classes come in an array of offerings: Trooper Met Con Camp, Trooper Power Strength Camp, Lower Body Trooper Strength Camp, Upper Body Trooper Strength Camp, Trooper Boot Camp, Trooper Core Stength Camp, Trooper TKB (TRX & Kettlebells) Camp, Trooper Sports Con Camp, Trooper Calisthenics Camp, Trooper

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When you're looking to reach a specific goal, you can purchase a Trooper Road Map which is a personalized 6-week group fitness program which will assist you in getting to where you want to be.

The Trooper Road Map includes 2 goalbased consultations and individual guidance from their certified coaches in a safe and responsible environment.

It's also a great way to hone your skills on workouts that you want to perfect.

In addition, you can always book a one-on-one trainer which is another

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way to guide and optimize your workout.

TROOPER FITNESS

When working out at Trooper Fitness, amenities that are offered include: showers, free towel service, toiletries (deodorant, body soap, shampoo and conditioner).

226 E 54th St. Ste. 600 NY, NY 10022 www.trooperfitness.com

The ethos of this fitness method is that it's a team oriented atmosphere that prides itself in overcoming obstacles, not only in the gym, but in life.

They live by the motto - "All We Know is Go".

Like a number of studios and gyms, you can rock an array of branded shorts, tees, shirts tanks, hoodies, joggers, sports bras and hats.

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f o t r A e h k T c a n S e h t THE CROSTINI The holiday season means even more of a reason to have great appetizers that you can pair with cocktails, sake, champagne and wine. In this month's The Art of the Snack we share some of our favorite crostini's whether you're staying in or hosting before a night out.

Honey Lemon Goat Cheese Crostini with Blueberry Salsa COURTESY | The Food Gays AthleisureMag.com

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This gluten free crostini option is great to include when having friends over.

Cranberry Goat Cheese Gluten Free Crostini COURTESY | Cotter Crunch

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This classic crostini mixes sweet and savory together perfectly.

Fig and Prosciutto Crostini COURTESY | Mama's Gotta Bake

And for something different, this will be your new crostini favorite when it's time to host friends and family.

Beef and Oyster Tartare on Olive Oil Crostini COURTESY | WestCoast Food

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ATHLEISURE MAG Holiday Gift Guide 2017

We're in the thick of the holiday gifting season which starts pretty much after Thanksgiving and continues well into the first few days of January. In Athleisure Mag's Holiday Gift Guide 2017, we are focusing on a number of gifting lifestyles to consider from Cocktails, Food, Fitness, Sexy Little Things, Traveling, Wellness and Beauty - just a number of the topics that you'll find in our monthly issues! In addition, we have added some of our favorite editorial photoshoots that have taken place this year and that you've seen in our issues.

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The Cocktail Lover Ath Mag HGG 2017 Every home should have a bar cart and options that include great ready made cocktails as well as an interesting spirit that is a great conversation starter. We have some tasty items to gift friends and family. | JONATHAN ADLER Ultra Bar Cart | OL' MAJOR Bacon Flavoured Bourbon | WEST ELM Marble Bar Tools | ANTHROPOLOGIE Gilded Rim Stemless Glass | HALF-SEAS Paloma Sparkling Cocktails | VAMPIRE GOURMET Bloody Mary Cocktail with Vodka in a Can | BUSHIDO Way of the Warrior Sake in Can |

The Beauty Stocking Ath Mag HGG 2017 Beauty products and stocking stuffers are the perfect pairing and we have a few that we wouldn't mind finding in our this holiday season. | JURLIQUE Rosewater Balancing Mist | SOL DE JANEIRO Catch the Bum Bum Wave | ARTIS BRUSH Fluenta Oval 7 | MAN RAY FOR NARS NARS Love Triangle - Impassioned | SMITH & CULT Kings and Thieves | MATRIX BIOLAGE 3 Butter Contol System Day Cream |

The Foodie on the Go Ath Mag HGG 2017 Whether you're snacking at home, at the office or on the go - we love culinary gifts that allow us to try something new. We suggest some of these tasty finds. | HIC OLIVE OIL Hic Collection - Aegean Olives | BETTER THAN COFFEE French Roast | PARMCRISPS Oven Baked Snacks | MANUKA HONEY CHOCOLATES Mint Dark Chocolate | SANAIA APPLE SAUCE Lychee | BLOUNT FINE FOODS Coconut Chicken and Noodle Bowl |

The Traveler Ath Mag HGG 2017 Travel takes on a number of forms from trains, planes and automobiles. Whether you're keeping it local or going beyond your geographical borders - here's what you can gift your traveling friends and family on your list. | MAVEN Car Sharing Service | MEAT CRAFTERS Skinny Salamis | Libero Ferrero GI Dopp Kit | MONDAINE Helvetica No1 Light Fall 2017 | VICTORINOX VX Touring Expandable 2-in-1 Carry-On Duffle | LIFEWTR Bottled Water | CANON PowerShot G9 X Mark II |

Fitnesss Goodies Ath Mag HGG 2017 We're constantly adding to our fitness kit. This is the bag of items that we always have on hand that work with whatever studio fitness we feel like doing as the mood strikes. Here's what we're gifting this holiday season! | DRISOUND Premium Headphone Covers | STELLA MCCARTNEY Red Hot Yoga Shorts | OUTDOOR VOICES Athena Crop | TOE TALK Mind Body Sock | DOPE Melonaid | REEBOK Combat Glory Hoodie |

Wellness Gifts Ath Mag HGG 2017 Sometimes you just want to kick back and relax. We have the perfect wellness items that are on our list when adding to must have selfcare options that will get you though cabin fever and "me time". | ANYA LUST Champagne Bath Gift Set (Candle, Bath Bomb and Whipped Body Butter) | VIM + VIGR Compression Socks | BERNARDO Miami Shearling | WE ARE KNITTERS Downtown Snood | TIVOLI AUDIO Model One Digital Bluetooth Speaker Radio | FLEUR'T WITH ME Athletic Mesh Inset Hoodie |

Sexy Little Things Ath Mag HGG 2017 When it comes to all facets of your life getting gifted, you can't forget a few sexy little things to add to your closet. We have some great options to add to your boudoir (oh and others who are on your list). | KARL K/ikonik Tie Gloves | BUDDHA MAMA 20K Mandala Necklace | CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN Rouge Louboutin Velvet Matte | BIJOUX INDISCRETS Maze Collection- Head Piece | JIMMY CHOO Viola 110 | PARFAIT LINGERIE Marion Non-Padded Underwire Bra and Hipster in Lapis Blue |

Hostess Gifts Ath Mag HGG 2017 You can't forget your host/hostess whether you're coming over for a fabulous dinner, they plan events that you enjoy attending or they're gracious to have you at their summer or winter homes. Don't come empty handed! | IITTALA Kastehelmi Tealight Candleholders | CHILEWICH Dahlia Coasters Set of 6 | ROYAL COPENHAGEN Fluted Contrast Mug | IRONWOOD Baguette Miter | ALESSI Pill Box Chestnut | NEUHAUS When Neuhaus Meets Single Malt Whisky Luxury Gift Box |

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With the holiday season upon us, we wanted to share one of our favorite luxury jewelry designers with our readers.

Our Style Director has included pieces in shoots in this publication and we sat down and talked with Miami based, Buddha Mama which is created by Nancy and is also designed by her daughter Dakota. The brand is the perfect mixture of fine jewelry, dramatic pieces and wellness. We found out about how they are inspired to create luxe pieces, what they do during Art Basel that took place earlier this month and how they give back.

ATHLEISURE MAG: We've been fans of the brand for years, but tell us how Buddha Mama was created and what are the inspirations behind the pieces?

BUDDHA MAMA: My mother Nancy started stringing Mala’s for her local Buddhist center to help raise funds and it sort of took off from there. To this day we still donate a portion of monthly proceeds. The inspiration comes from everywhere, travel definitely has a strong influence on our collections. Different architecture and symbols appreciated in other cultures, these are things that inspire us to keep creating and share what we love.

AM: How do you decide what pieces are a part of each of the collections that are in the line?

BM: Depends on the collection. Some pieces are placed in certain collections due to gemstone colors, others are specifically created - such as our Lantern pieces for the lantern collection. Our auspicious collection is by far our largest, with everything from mandalas to flowers, skulls and cross pendants.

AM: What charity/philanthropy are you involved in?

BM: We donate a portion of proceeds to Kristi House in Miami, which is a center for sexually abused and trafficked women and children. As well as Tibet House in New York.

AM: During Art Basel, do you do anything in conjunction with this event?

F O

BM: Usually Nan and I are pretty busy creating new collections for the COUTURE Show in Vegas but we always attend at least a few Basel events. Miami is always a blast in December and we try to

M E I G M E A I H T M

AM: Who is the Buddha Mama girl or boy?

BM: We never really know how to answer that question. It seems like it can be just about anyone, whether you are drawn to the beauty of a mandala pendant because you know of the meaning or you just appreciate the piece. I wouldn't say we have one specific client, there's certainly a range of people we've come across.

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enjoy as much of it as we can!

AM: How important is Art Basel to the Miami scene?

BM: It’s incredible. One of the main areas for Basel is called Wynwood and it’s literally unrecognizable from just a few years ago. I feel that Art Basel is important because Miami has always had an art and graffiti scene- maybe not like New York but it was always present. To now watch it expand and get its recognition, it’s great.

AM: With the holidays coming up, what can we look forward to in terms of great gifting options from the brand?

BM: We have a daintier collection that is great for gifting! Also of course our special one of a kind pieces are always a hit.

AM: Where are your favorite places to eat, grab a cocktail and to do yoga/meditation in Miami to keep on our radar?

BM: Macchialina’s on the beach for great Italian. River Oyster Bar in Brickell for amazing food and drinks. For yoga we’d have to say Dharma Yoga Studio in Coconut Grove.

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

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When the ball drops you just need your b want to fit everything you need in your c first great moments of the new year.

| DIRTY LITTLE SECRET Spiced Latte Lip fum Rollerball | JUDITH LEIBER Grid Cub BOBBI BROWN Lip Balm SPF 15 | BOSCIA

In Ou When the

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basic necessities as the night moves fast and you clutch to be ready for the debut of 2018 and the

Gloss | MICHAEL KORS Wonderlust Eau de Parbe | GOODY® Ouchless® Rubberband Elastics | Green Tea Blotting Linens |

ur Bag e Ball Drops

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Bingely Books One Nite Alone tour, Musicology Tour and was also his cinematographer as well as photographer.

During Prince's last 15 years of his life, he was his closest photographer and is the only one to have shot the legendary 3121 private parties in Los Angeles that became the most sought after invitations in Hollywood.

With a foreward by Beyonce Knowles, Prince: A Private View is a curation of his work that showcases Prince's life. The book includes never before seen imagery from candids, intimate, concerts and more. In addition, the book includes captions that talk about the moments in his life from those that are personal, witty, and present an insight into one of music's talented and legendary entertainers.

HENDRIX THE ILLUSTRATED STORY Voyageur Press Gillian G Gaar

Hendrix: The Illustrated Story was released this fall on what would have been the rock icon's 75th birthday. This is the first fully illustrated book that shares his life and the legacy of one of the greatest of all time.

PRINCE: A PRIVATE VIEW St. Martin's Press Afshin Shahide

Author Afshin Shahide is no stranger to Prince as he had documented Prince's AthleisureMag.com

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Although the rock guitarist enjoyed the global stage for under 4 years, he is known for his innovative and imaginative interpretDec 2017

Graubart, award winning author.

Over five chapters and 50 dishes (appetizers, salads, sides, drinks, desserts), Cynthia shares an array of Sunday Suppers which are delicious and easy meals without any stress. The great thing about this meal is that it doesn't have a set time, can be casual or formal and can be in any location.

Whether you're trying a new recipe or one that has been passed down from one family to the next, it's a cherished time.

In addition to recipes, there are menu-planning ideas, cooking tricks, tips for stocking the pantry, decorating the table and additional tools to host the perfect dinner. ation of blues and rock. His work inspired guitarists and music loves across time and genres.

In this book, Seattle based music journalist Gillian Gaar delves into the guitarist’s upbringing, his military service as an Army paratrooper, his role as a sideman on the chitlin’ circuit, his exile in the UK, and his eventual reemergence in the US and the fame that followed until his untimely death in 1970. Featuring design as lavish as Hendrix’s music and carefully curated photography, posters, picture sleeves, and other assorted memorabilia, this is the ultimate Hendrix book experience.

SUNDAY SUPPERS Southern Living Cynthia Graubart

Sunday dinners are known as a great tradition to bring friends and family together. Southern LIving revitalizes the tradition in their new book by Cynthia Dec 2017

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Bingely Streaming the future of their world as they know it. Battling both their own personal differences as well as an onslaught of enemies, they must work together to protect a young female elf and a thoughtto-be-forgotten relic, which, in the wrong hands, could destroy everything.

This Netflix film is the network's second blockbuster formula film to launch on the platform.

JEAN-CLAUDE VAN JOHNSON Amazon It's nearly impossible to say that you have never seen a Jean Claude Van Damme film. Known for blockbuster films where he gets the bad guy, has epic fight scenes and of course, he always gets the girl and the respect of those he works with. But what if the man he was actually, was a secret agent, and the way we have known him as always been his alias?

BRIGHT A Netflix Film; Streams Dec 22nd Humans and creatures (orcs, elves and faries) co-exist together in the world of Bright which focuses on a veteran cop played by Will Smith and his orc (goblin) cop who is his partner. These partners go out on a typical night patrol that changes AthleisureMag.com

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Jean Claude Van Johnson explores this alternate reality through this comedy. The series begins with him coming out of retirement as an actor and agent as well as following him as he pursues his former flame. Hilarity ensues as he tries to step into his old life and inevitably messes everything up.

HUMANS SEASON 2 Amazon lf you missed the second season

Dec 2017

force feel resentment towards a synth population that is taking their jobs.

In addition to these concerns, there is the overarching one that focuses on what synths are, how they became conscious and how their relationship changes with the people they interact with. Do they turn on humans, do they begin to have interpersonal relationships and how they are linked with one another?

In the second season, viewers will continue to follow the journey of the synths as they gain more awareness and navigate an ever changing modern world that continues to understand how to balance the relationships and realities between these co-existing groups.

of AMC's HUMANS, now you can binge this on Amazon. Artificial Intelligence blends effortlessly with humans in the series that showcases the depth of its AI characters and its impact on human lives. These synthetic (synths for short) beings have become fully integrated into a number of roles that allow humans to focus on other tasks.

This integration is made palatable due to the natural look of the synths (although there are slight differences that separate them from their human counterparts.

The series focuses on the sociological element of this symbiotic relationship which includes how a troubled marriage survives when a synth is in the home, when a human mother is unable to cook for her children like her AI, and how those entering the workDec 2017

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After the ball drops and you had the most epic night at the Marquee Las Vegas at The Cosmopolitan Hotel, to begin a prosperous New Year, you'll want to give your body extra love. We have our three must haves for proper TLC. | VASELINE® INTENSIVE CARE Cocoa Radiant Smoothing Body Butter | CO2LIFT Single Pack Anti Aging Treatment | ICONIC PROTEIN Grass Fed Protein Drink |

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#TribeGoals Recommended for your Tribe to eat, work & play

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Pe p pe

rc or n

Beyond adding peppercorn to savory dishes, it's a beauty ingredient that fights wrinkles and exfoliates the skin.

We suggest adding these to your routine.

Be au

ty

CRABTREE & EVELYN Rosewater & Pink Peppercorn - Hydrating Body Gel | MOLTON BROWN Black Peppercorn Body Wash | NAKED PRINCESS 24K Love Dust - Boudoir Blush |

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We believe that the more you travel, the more you want to see. We're not alone in this line of thinking. All you have to do is to scroll through your Instagram to see people tagging their favorite locations with #wanderlust, #bucketlist and more. Whether you're planning your next trip or simply want to take a mental escape, we suggest that you pick up National Geographic's TIMELESS JOURNEYS: Travels to the World's Legendary Places, which is perfect to add to your library, coffee table or to gift someone on your list.

As we flipped through our copy we found destinations that were known to us and others that we want to discover! Ford Cochran, Director of Proramming, National Geographic Expeditions (he has worked with them for 20 years and wrote the foreward for this book) believes that, "In these expeditions to the wonders of our world— supreme achievements of nature and the human spirit—you’ll find endless inspiration, riches to fill your imagination, and, just maybe, insights into that destination you call home. Don’t take my word for it. Just turn the page.”

50 stunning destinations that everyone should see at least once in your lifetime are included in this book. In addition to the stunning pictures there is historical information, innovative travel tips and secrets that are shared that will assist you when you travel there or to add a conversational note when you're out amongst friends. You'll find landmarks from lesser known areas; however, they will draw you in to learn more about them.

DESTINATION | JAIPUR, INDIA

Something You Should Know THE TRAVEL BUCKET LIST

SAQQARA PYRAMID, EGYPT

SANTIAGO DE CUBA, CUBA

SUGAR LOAF RIO, BRAZIL

FRENCH POLYNESIA, SOUTH PACIFIC

OLD PRAGUE, CZECHIA

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2018 will be many things, but we hope in addition to your other plans and goals, that focusing on your health will be at the top of the list! We took some time to talk to NYC Surgical Associate's head doctor and Co-Founder, Dr Greuner. He is an extremely exclusive and prestigious award-winning cardiovascular surgeon who is one of the most talented in his field. He is also a social media influencer for health and fitness.

We wanted to find out about how he found his calling to be a doctor, his passion for fitness (if you haven't checked his Instagram, check it out) and how we can have positive heart health.

ATHLEISURE MAG: How did you come to be a cardiovascular surgeon?

DR. GREUNER: Believe it or not, by accident. I was a NCAA athlete in college, and an economics and human performance major. My plan was to open a chain of objectively measured analytics for top tier athletes upon graduation, and this was a childhood dream of mine. I took medical classes to develop my knowledge of human anatomy and physiology for this reason in school, and became so enamored discovering how the human body functions. It’s beautiful, and completely logical. I could speak for hours on this, and I read about it more to this day for personal enjoyment, much the same way an art aficionado looks at beautiful pieces.

As my understanding grew, so did my desire to learn more, and soon, I had basically filled my requirements for medical school, solely via personal interest. My father and mother were in the middle of a divorce at the time I finished college, and I moved closer to my father to help him through this difficult time, as we had always been very close. I applied to medical school at that time where he was living, and was accepted. I finished, but never planned on practicing, until my surgery rotation, which fascinated me. I applied to

Form & Fu with Dr. Gr

unction reuner

surgical residency and I was accepted. During my surgery residency, I rotated through cardiac surgery, and it was love at first sight. The rhythm, the physiology, the technical prowess, and the nerves of steel required hypnotized me, and I knew there was nothing else I would rather do.

To this day, everyone asks me why I am so happy heading to work in the morning. The truth is, I theoretically found the love of my life by accident…..

AM: How can we maintain positive heart health?

DR. G: There are so many answers to this question, but in short, regular cardio and a diet rich in essential fatty acids and low in foods that promote oxidative stress are the two main keys.

For the function of your heart, or “cardiovascular fitness,” you should maintain at least 3 sessions of active cardio where your heart rate is above 120 bpm, for at least 20 minutes per week to maintain your level of cardiovascular fitness. Less than that, and you will consistently deteriorate with time in terms of your cardiac function. More than that, and you will consistently improve.

The next category is maintaining pristine condition of your heart, to allow it to function effectively. Anything that causes tissue damage is called “oxidative stress”. I’m sure you have all heard of anti oxidants. These are the chemicals that act to buffer these oxidative stress. Think of it as a balance, like a mathematical equation. If you go into a negative number, because of oxidative stress, you must take in antioxidants to get back to a neutral state, and “balance it out” so to speak.

Oxidative stress can come from any source, such as chemicals in processed food, chemical injury such as smoking or pollution, and even extra strenuous

workouts. It’s all about consistency, and awareness to keep you in the positive direction to avoid tissue damage.

AM: It's clear that you are also into health and fitness, why is this important and what are the benefits?

DR. G: Yes, fitness is a huge part of my life, and for a variety of reasons 1. its one of my main coping mechanisms.

I definitely have a very stressful job surgically speaking, and I also have a significant administrative role in a very large private practice, which let me tell you, comes with some unwanted stress. Given that role, I need some release mechanisms that don’t involve unhealthy habits, and working out is one of my go to methods, particularly cycling, running, and martial arts, all of which require an intense amount of focus and “zoning out” so to speak.

I reach a sort of meditative state for lack of a better word, that allows me a tranquil period and a mental cleansing for other things that may be weighing on my mind at the time. Well, at least until the next hurdle…..

2. It preserves my form and function.

Lets face it. Whether we are 18 or 60, we are all aging daily, and aging takes its toll on the body. And none of that is making us more fit. In fact, it gets harder to maintain levels of fitness as we age for a variety of reasons. You can either accept that, or fight the trend by working harder to be better. I choose the latter. In fact, my lap times running, and some of my muscle functionality is better than where it was in my twenties as a result of me training so intensely these days, a fact that I’m extremely proud of. Now if only my back injuries would respond the same way…..

AM: Nutrition is key. How can we stay

healthy during the holiday while splurging during this time of year?

DR. G: I’m a HUGE fan of cheat days.

Both because I love to eat probably more than anyone I know, and also because there are definite benefits to them, if your diet is on track the rest of the time. In general, I’m sure you have heard of muscle confusion workouts. The basic premise behind this, is that if you do the same workout for a prolonged period of time, eventually, your muscles become accustomed to it, and you will no longer push them to the point where they need to become stronger, as they simply become more efficient. How do you avoid this and enjoy improved function with every workout? By switching it up and keeping your muscles and body “confused” and not knowing what to expect.

It’s the same with your diet. If you keep to a strict, low calorie diet for a prolonged period of time, your body is programmed to preserve the status quo by nature, and it will simply become more efficient and lower your metabolism in order to burn calories in an efficient way. In short, you will basically become a human Pruis metabolically speaking, which trust me, is NOT what you want. You want to be that big V8 that burns calories at a rapid rate.

How do you do this? By implementing a cheat day once a week, where you consume a tremendous amount of calories, and make your body feel like endless calories will be available much like the credit market was in the 1990s.

Then, just when your body is adapting, which takes a few days, you pull the carpet from underneath it, and drop it back into a low calorie state while it still thinks that endless energy is available. Just when it’s starting to sense that it needs to be more “financially responsible” from a calories standpoint, your throw a curveball again and bring in fat, carbs, and everything that it wants. Keep doing this, and your body will have to keep guessing, and you will

always burn fat at a faster rate and keep it lean. Plus, you get to eat cake and fries….

AM: What are 3 workouts that guys should do to get great abs and calves?

DR. G: You should always think of gaining muscle mass as a separate category than acquiring muscle definition. A muscular, ripped physique is the Holy Grail for most men, and there are many reasons most of us are not walking around looking like Greek gods. It’s very difficult to achieve both. To gain muscle mass, we have to stress our muscles, beyond what they are used to stimulate them to grow. Most of the gym theories on heavy weights with low weight vs light weights and high reps are false. The endpoint needs to be complete and total muscle fatigue so that your body is uncomfortable and is stimulated to adapt to be able to deal with the new level of performance you demand from it. It doesn’t really matter how you achieve that level of stimulation, as long as you achieve it. If you are trying to attain a different level of functionality, meaning strength vs endurance, the type of training you do definitely matters.

This being the case, I always pick the easiest way to look the best. And for me, that is doing heavy weights with low reps, as it’s the quickest, most efficient way to stimulate growth. My ab routine typically consists of hanging leg raises with leg weights, ab pulldowns with heavy weight (150+lbs) and weighted, slant bench sit ups with a 40-50lb medicine ball. When it comes time to train for an event, I switch to more reps to improve my function. For calves I use weighted donkey presses, and weighted calf raises.

In order to allow your muscles to grow, you must also give them the fuel and rest they need, much like a growing child, which is why it’s difficult to stay ripped and build muscle. Girls have it

so easy…..

important.

To show off that hard-earned muscle, you must be in a calorie deficit, to make your body lose the fat and expose that hard-earned mass. Without a low body fat, you will never look good, regardless of the amount of muscle you build.

AM: As a stylist, I'm prepping a number of my clients for their red carpet moments during Awards Season what are food must-haves and workouts that you would suggest they incorporate into their routine?

You may ask, “When I drop my calories, won't I lose muscle?” which is a legitimate concern. The short answer is, yes you will. But you can minimize muscle loss by manipulating your diet, as well as supplements promoting testosterone, and supplying branched chain amino acids, which are key to my routine. BCAAs basically fool your body into believing it has broken down muscle already, so it shifts to breaking down fat instead when you are in a caloric deficit, and are one of the keys to preserving muscle mass when dieting hard for fat loss.

DR. G: In general, I look at workouts and diet as trying to achieve two different goals. How you look is 80 percent a function of your diet, and how you perform is mostly dependent on your workouts. The only exception to this, is trying to attain a very high level of muscle in which case you absolutely must work out consistently to stimulate muscle growth.

AM: What are your energy foods that you enjoy eating that you can take with you when you have a hectic day and can't get out like you would like?

DR. G: I typically bring some lean, but very satisfying meat cuts to work with me, which promote satiety, but at the same time, allow me to not over indulge in calories. Turkey, lean beef, and chicken are my go to choices.

The key to any diet that promotes a lean, muscular physique is to avoid high blood sugar levels, which stimulate insulin release. Insulin is the main hormone involved in fat gain, so you want to minimize its presence in your blood.

The best way to do this is to avoid high sugar foods. So if you’re going to snack, use high protein snacks like beef jerky, or complex carbs, like high fiber or oat bars with low sugar content. As soon as you cause a sugar spike, you basically put yourself behind the 8 ball in terms of your physique. Yes, it's THAT

That being the case, diet is the key to looking great. You could work out all day long, but if you eat badly, you will look terrible. If you barely workout, but your diet is clean, you will look much better than you think, which is often overlooked. Often I hear “I work out, I can eat whatever I want today.”

Nothing could be farther from the truth. If you think about it, in a hugely strenuous workout for an hour, the average person would burn maybe 1000 calories, or one larger slice of cheesecake. Do the math on that. Fat loss is a simple mathematical equation. Eat fewer calories than you burn, and you will lose weight. The easiest way to do that, unless you want to work out 6 hours a day, is to keep your diet clean.

NEW Y N3WYO

Our second annual NEW YEAR year is around the corner. It's friends to share THE GOOD, that they're looking forward t

YEAR OU 2018

R N3W YOU is back as the next time for some of our favorite D, THE ADD and THE BUZZ to for 2018!

THE GOOD I’m really excited about Life After First Failure. We filmed it in the spring and it came out a few weeks later. It was a really positive experience – great cast and crew. It was great to be a lead on the show in a new platform. I was really proud of it.

GIA MANTEGNA ACTRESS

+ SINGER

Another positive thing which is also a negative but they go together – it’s women speaking out, coming together and talking about the sexual allegations. Regardless of what happened, it’s an amazing movement that is happening in our industry and it’s kind of giving a lot of power and confidence to women who didn’t have it before.

I think it’s making parents aware that they have to teach their children to speak up, be bold, be independent and don’t let a man push you around. It’s great for all women. I mean, I go into these auditions all the time and it’s usually men. Male directors, casting directors and it’s this weird pseudo safety bubble that we have now where you can’t get away with it anymore. It’s a terrible time for men to be in the industry but a great one for us.

My sister is really good, she’s an artist and has had a lot of shows – her works have been showing in a number of art galleries across the Northwest in Seattle, Sacramento and I’m proud she’s persuing it.

THE ADD

I think my singing is something that I want to get back in focus on. I want to perform, work with a band and be creative. As an artist I want to continue to create content.

I want to learn how to embrace social media. I have rejected it for so long as I didn’t want to do it and I wanted to be mysterious but I have learned, it’s part of the job! How many followers do you have, what’s your aesthetic – so many things around it and I always felt that it had nothing to do with me but now I know that that’s not true. I have to embrace it and figure out what my voice is. I worked with 16 year old on Life After Failure and she had a million followers on Instagram and she was an influencer and it was interesting to be introduced to that world that I knew nothing about. Now I know how important is to use that platform to get the word out about the show and to use it in a responsible and positive way. So in the New Year I want to use it without focusing on vapid selfies and to keep it creative, inspiring and to learn about me in a connected way.

THE BUZZ There’s nothing coming out just now as Life After Failure is out so it’s a little slow with the holidays and all the things that are going on so it won’t happen until after the new year when everyone is back in the office. But I will be sharing socially when everything is able to be shared. But LAF is available now and we're the newest show, it's free, funny an a quick/easy watch - it's

cute and you can throw it on.

PHOTO COURTESY | Marco David (left) James Clark (below)

THE GOOD I got engaged to my fiancé Nicole and gained two sons, two more wonderful parents, a brother, sister-in-law and 3 nephews. Now, Nicole and I have 6 boys between us. This year my mom went into remission for cancer after a long 4 1/2 year battle. My family is healthy and I am personally happier than I have ever been.

Professionally, Nicole became CEO of our company. I was on Fox’s “My Kitchen Rules”, was on 4 magazine covers, created two new shows for 2018, opened my 10th restaurant, “Wicked Eats” in Brooklyn and began working with Team USA. I also did a lot of philanthropic work around hurricane relief, fire crisis and other needs around the world. We have so much coming out in 2018 so stay tuned.

THE ADD CAT CORA CHEF iron chef Personality

+ RESTAURATEUR

Our culinary/lifestyle line and running the New York Marathon.

THE BUZZ In 2018 we have new shows that we are launching including, an animated show. We are also launching a culinary line and a new cookbook. But most importantly and the most exciting, I’m getting married to Nicole in April 2018, with our 6 boys by our side.

THE GOOD I released my first book and I’m pretty darn excited and proud of it! LIFTED is a 28 day program designed to strengthen your body, focus your mind and elevate your spirit. Whether you are a trained athlete or simply trying to take your first steps, this book is important. Meditation, exercise, goal setting, nutrition and visualization are just a few topics I’m excited to share with my readers.

Another amazing thing that happened to me in 2017 is love. I met my girlfriend and am madly in love. I think it’s important to mention that this happened on the tail end of a professional disaster. I took a position that wasn’t for me and at the time it felt like a huge failure. In hindsight, that “mishap” allowed me to find balance in my life. It was the first time in 8 years that I wasn’t married to my work. I learned more about myself last year than I did in the last eight years.

HOLLY RILINGER CELEB FITNESS TRAINER

+ NIKE MASTER TRAINER

THE ADD I believed 2017 would be the year I started something new; a new chapter in my life. I’ve found great success as a trainer and coach, released my first book and was featured on a network television show; all great accomplishments, but to me, all catalysts for something bigger. I’ve hired a personal coach named Sonni Talant who will mentor me and help me navigate this amazing new year. Big things are com-

ing!

THE BUZZ Expect to see me training and speaking in cities all over the country. Also, get ready to work with me wherever you are. I will be more assessable to more people all over the world. Streaming content, workshops, online coaching watch for it all. I’m also a big fan of the body positive movement after working with Aerie and The All Woman Project. It’s time we all exercise more self love and acceptance. This will be a big part of everything I do in the new year.

PHOTO COURTESY | Sophy Holland (left) + Matt Doyle (right)

THE GOOD 2017 has been an amazing year for me!

I’ve launched my website – complete with an online store and blog, and I’m currently working on an app that teaches you how to get the life you want, including your dream man! The app features daily empowerment quotes, my favorite recipes, fitness tips, live chats and videos, and so much more. I’m also expecting a child with my significant other so I really couldn’t ask for anything more!

THE ADD I’m still working on my app content which won’t be available until 2018. It’s a lot of work being pregnant, managing a household, taking care of your family, and being a business woman – but at the end of the day everything must be accomplished and will get done!

TELLI SWIFT E! WAGS ATLANTA

THE BUZZ I have a number of significant events to come in 2018! My baby shower will be in January, my baby is due in early February, and my man (WBC Heavyweight title holder since 2015 - Deontay Wilder) fights at Barclays Center in NYC on March 3rd! We will also be building and buying a home by the lake for our growing family, so there is much more to come! Plus I can't wait to check out the first season of our show, E!'s WAGS Atlanta, when it premieres in January.

2018 is a year I’m definitely looking forward to!

WAGS Atlanta on Wednesday, January 3rd at 10p ET/PT on E!

Tune-In to the season premiere of WAGS

PHOTOS COURTESY | NBC Universal

Wellness T

TRANSPARENCY + EMPOWE DIGITAL WELLNESS BIOHACKING INTERI D

Trends 2018

ERMENT // // // IOR THERAPY // DETOX BEAUTY // SMART SLEEP //

and when did it launch?

We're always looking to the next and when it comes to wellness trends, we have identified some that you'll be hearing a lot more about in the next few months. In 2018, we'll focus on Digital Wellness, Transperency, Smart Sleep, Biohacking, Interior Therapy and Detox Beauty. In this month's issue we're taking a look at Smart Sleep via Eight Sleep which focuses on technologies that optimize sleep and Transperency with Agent Inc's app providing awareness in the fashion industry.

EIGHT SLEEP: Eight is a sleep technology company improving the way we sleep. It’s signature product, the Mars+ Smart Mattress, is an exceptionally comfortable mattress with a technology layer that tracks sleep patterns and bedroom environment data. The Eight app provides feedback to users on each night of sleep, and allows for effortless integration with other smart products to regulate bed temperature, lights, door locks and more, in real time. Eight was founded in 2014 and is based in New York. It has raised over $13M in funding by leading Silicon Valley investors including Y Combinator, Stanford University, Yunqui Partners, Azure Capital, Cota

SMART SLEEP EIGHT SLEEP ATHLEISURE MAG: What is Eight Sleep AthleisureMag.com

- 144 -

Dec 2017

ES: The benefit of the Eight Smart Mattress is that it seamlessly tracks sleep patterns without having to wear anything or remember to charge something. All you have to do is lie down. The Eight Smart Mattress also comes with many features unavailable to wearables like bed warming and a smart alarm that wakes you up at your lightest stage of sleep.

AM: You offer 3 mattresses in the Smart Collection. What is available in all of these models and then how does each one differ?

ES: The 3 models differ in pricing and materials.

Saturn+: As the most affordable smart mattress on the market to date, the Saturn+ has three layers of high-quality foam for ultimate comfort, ensuring users their best night’s sleep and a daily morning report via Eight’s advanced sleep technology to prove it.

Starting at $699 for a Full mattress

Capital and Comcast Ventures.

AM: Eight Sleep's Smart Mattress pairs with other devices in your home like Alexa, are there other devices such as Google Home etc that you can also connect it with?

ES: Yes, Eight works with any WiFi device via IFTTT, this includes Google Home, Nest, and other smart home products.

AM: Eight Sleep's Smart Mattress provides data that is similar to what you get in trackers that we wear in terms of heart rate, your sleep cycle etc. Is there additional information that it provides that is more in depth than what these devices currently share?

Jupiter+: Made of four layers of dynamic reactive foams, the Jupiter+ is a perfect medium firm. It contours and cradles the body in all right ways making for a dreamlike sleep experience.

Starting at $849 for a Full Mattress Mars+: The perfect mix of innerspring coils and an industry leading four layers of soft foam that are combined to keep you cool all night long. The Mars+ mattress hugs the body while providing excellent support, bounce and unparalleled breathability.

Starting at $1,299 for a Full mattress AM: If someone likes the current mattress that they have, can they purchase the Sleep Tracker as an accessory to add it to their current sleep system?

ES: Yes - you can purchase the Eight

Sleep Tracker separately. It fits over any mattress like a fitted sheet.

AM: How does the mattress regulate heat and is it able to do it for the whole bed or can it split temperatures for both individuals?

ES: The Eight Smart Mattress offers dual zone controls allowing you and your partner to select different warming levels for each side of the bed.

the minute you climb into bed.

AM: Are there additional functions that you are looking for this collection to provide that we should keep an eye out for?

ES: Our team is always working to advance the product, so stay tuned for more features!

AM: How important is the temperature to getting optimal sleep?

AM: As a technology forward company, why did you select tackling issues that involve sleep and how important is this technology to giving its users a better rest?

ES: Very important. Your bedroom should be kept at 68 degrees for optimal sleep, but your bed should be warm enough to help you relax. Eight takes care of this by offering bed warming as well as an integration with Nest so you can automate bedroom temperature

ES: Think about it, there hasn’t been a major innovation in sleep since memory foam was invented over 50 years ago! We still sleep the same - lying on a piece of foam. Technology has enhanced nearly every aspect in our lives, so why not use it to improve sleept? At

Eight, we believe technology can measure, understand, and optimize the way we sleep for the ultimate goal of a healthy and happier life. Our products are designed to promote health, energy, productivity, and happiness for everyone.

about in the mainstream as we continue to see those who have fallen victim to #MeToo there is a renewed and ongoing effort to provide transparency so that talent and firms can work together in a synergistic environment.

TRANSPARENCY + EMPOWERMENT AGENT INC.

We sat down with Agent Inc. to see how they are contributing to these issues in an era that is truly beginning to understand the importance and balance of transparency.

ATHLEISURE MAG: Tell us about Agent Inc., when it started, why you wanted to create it and who is able to use it?

MARK WILLINGHAM: Agent is a technology-driven platform which is the result of our focus to completely re-imagine the modeling industry.

The fashion industry, like the film industry has been one that is filled with excitement and dedication to break into the industry and to hone one's skills. But there are a lot of facets of these industries that have eisted for decades that are finally being talked

The modeling industry, at its core, has pretty much remained the same for the past 70 years with modeling agencies representing models, often on an exclusive basis, and connecting them with companies that want to book models.

The traditional modeling agencies take a commission of up to 20% from both the model and the company. And, the process of booking a model can be quite time consuming as the companies need to search through an agency’s book of models, either online or in print, identify which models are of interest to them and then communicate this to the agency – via phone or email - who then need to determine the model’s availability for the proposed job.

Depending on the complexity of the job and a variety of other factors, this process can take from a few hours to a week or more. Then, there are issues of safety (does the person hiring the model have a criminal/sex offender background?), payment (will it take weeks or even months for the model to be paid?), lack of transparency (how much is the modeling agency actually getting paid by the client) and career control (exclusivity agreements between models and agencies tie the model's hands,

preventing them controlling their own destiny).

Now, with the Agent platform, things are much different. Agent offers companies more diversity and overall options than a traditional modeling agency. Agent provides real value to both sides of the marketplace, empowering companies to efficiently find and book highly-vetted models in minutes by utilizing powerful, granular search filers.

The Agent platform is free to use and a small fee of 5% is only charged to companies once they have completed the job and electronically paid the model.

Further, for companies which book models, Agent provides a guarantee of 100% satisfaction and offers 24/7 customer support.

For models, the Agent platform is focused on empowering them and providing the tools and guidance to control and grow their careers. We have created a much safer work environment for models by running a criminal/sex offender background check on every person who wants to use the platform to book them. In addition, the models set their own rates on the platform and they are electronically paid immediately (direct deposit in to their bank accounts) when the job is completed. Further, Agent is non-exclusive, free for models to apply and be listed and only charges a 10% booking fee when they are paid for a job (as opposed to the 20% fee charged by traditional agencies).

In addition, the Agent provides for total transparency, giving both the power to rate each other at the completion of each job.

The company was actually formed in December 2015 (Wow! 2 years ago already!). My two business partners, Dustin Diaz and Ashley St. Clair, originally conceptualized Agent when Dustin was named photographer of

the year on Flickr and was awarded a book deal on photography and lighting. He was trying to hire 20 models to shoot for the book and, not knowing where to find them, he ultimately ended up reaching out to models on Instagram and Model Mayhem. Well, his experience was less-than-desirable with more than half of the booked models not showing up for the job and, of those that did, there was a range of issues from not being experienced and not looking like their online photos to not being able to accept payment by credit card. He ended up having to go to the bank to get cash and one model even asked if she could give him marijuana as change for a $100 bill!

All of this got Dustin thinking that if he had such a bad experience trying to book models for one job there must be a much bigger overall problem in the industry. It turns out he was right.

Our goal at Agent is not to replace traditional agencies but to re-imagine the entire industry where all the players – models, companies that hire models and traditional modeling agencies themselves – benefit from the efficiencies and safeguards which are core to the agent platform.

We currently offer our service in 4 cities: New York, Los Angeles, Las Vegas and Miami with plans to expand to other major US cities during 2018 and then across the entire country and then into Europe and Asia.

The initial focus is on models and companies (brands, marketing agencies, photographers, etc.) that book models for a broad range of needs including photo shoots (fashion, commercial, online), trade shows, runway shows, events, promotions, etc.

AM: Although the Agent platform is meant for models, are others who are in the industry (photographers, stylists,

wants to use the platform to book them. In addition, with our rating system, where the models rate the clients after every job, models can make informed decisions regarding the clients with whom they want to work. We also have many other safeguards in place including educational tools for models which lets them know that they are empowered to say, "no" and can leave a job at any time if the situation is uncomfortable. We are also implementing a “safety� button in the platform which, in the event of an emergency, allows models to get immediate help without requiring them to make a physical phone call.

makeup artists etc.) able to use this as well?

MW: While the talent side of the Agent platform is currently focused models, during 2018 we will also open it up to photographers, stylists and makeup artists. That being said, we have thousands of photographers already signed up on the platform as clients so that they can hire models. It is super exciting how responsive photographers have been to our service.

AM: Although the Agent platform allows you to book talent, how is it beneficial in keeping models and other hired talents safe or aware of the people that they are working with?

MW: With the Agent platform we have created a much safer work environment for models by running a verifi cation and criminal/sex offender background check on every person who

Also, by requiring that all clients provide the information necessary for us to run identity verification and background checks they know that the Agent platform is certainly not a place for them to attempt anything shady.

There are many places for predators to go such as Instagram, Model Mayhem, etc. where nobody is sure who they are or what illegal or unsavory deeds they may have committed in the past . . . Agent certainly would not be a first choice for these characters as we know too much about them.

AM: What top models are currently using this platform?

MW: We already have more than 10K models registered on the Agent platform. And, while we do not break them down based on their annual bookings outside of the platform, I can confidently say that we have as many high-end models as any top modeling agency in the U.S. In addition, we are about diversity not just the stereotypical model-look.

AM: This is available on IOS but will this be available on Android?

MW: The Agent platform started with an iOS app but our goal is for accessi-

“submit� button. The review process for model applications takes approximately 2 business days and then the model will be notified of the committee’s decision.

For clients the process is equally simple. Creating a base client account takes less than a minute. Once signed in a client can search for models using the granular search filters. However, in order to book a model, a client must first provide additional information so that we can verify their identity and run a background check. This process too is super-fast and allows clients to quickly begin booking models once they are approved.

AM: How important is transparency to all parties especially in the current #MeToo, #NotMe and #SheKnew climate that we're involved in?

bility from any device. In January we will be launching our new web interface which will provide the same functionality as the iOS app. We will soon follow that up with an Android app.

Simplicity of access and use is core to our focus.

AM: Can anyone set up an account and if so, what is the application process like?

MW: Anyone can apply to be a model listed on Agent and any business can apply to book models. It is free for both models and clients.

For models the process is super simple and only takes a few minutes. Simply download the free app from the App Store, fill out some basic information including a short bio, measurements, areas of focus (i.e., runway, commercial, promotional, events, etc.), and upload up to 10 photos. Then, tap on the

MW: Transparency, at all levels, is fundamental to what we are doing at Agent. We want models to know that by booking jobs on Agent we are providing a much safer environment for them. This peace of mind is not only good for their personal security and well-being, but it also allows them to maintain a positive outlook and focus on their modeling careers which results in better models. On the other hand, clients, by booking models through Agent, are taking a stand in support of the models and making a statement that they will not turn a blind eye nor tolerate inappropriate behavior towards models. With 90% of models (some say this number is higher!) having experienced some form of sexual abuse or coercion while on a job it is time for total transparency to be the norm and it is our goal at Agent to be a catalyst in this movement.

AM: How are you spreading the word about this app and with the upcoming Fashion Month taking place next year, what are your plans to have brands/

agencies adopt this as a part of their booking plans?

MW: Even though we have thousands of models and clients already registered on Agent, we are actually still in a live beta (with clients continuously booking models)! We will formally be launching the Agent platform, including the new web interface, in early January 2018 and then begin our marketing outreach to anyone who books models including brands, marketing agencies, photographers, etc.

We have already been receiving fantastic media coverage (Forbes, Marie Claire, FastCompany, Bloomberg, etc.) and expect this coverage to continue at an increasing rate as we formally launch the Agent platform. Additionally, we will be executing on a traditional and online sales and marketing strategy to introduce both models and clients to Agent. And, lastly, word-ofmouth has been super important for us and we anticipate that this, along with social media, will continue to play a major role in spreading the word about Agent and what we are doing to improve the modeling industry.

o D

g in

e h T

x u o D

Maya Smith has been showing love to hair of all textures for years as an International Master Trainer who got her start as an assistant to celebrity hairstylist, Tracy Johnson. This military wife and mother of 5, opened The Honey Comb in Germany while her husband was stationed there. Her clients spanned from those in Europe as well as Africa as she was known for styling hair of all texture types.

Maya launched her haircare line with a cult following, The DOUX® initially overseas in Germany, France, Italy and Netherlands.

When she came back to the states, she opened The DOUX salon in Macon, Georgia. This Christmas Eve, THE DOUX will be sold nationwide in Target. With the colder weather setting in, she shares tips on how to work with curly hair, select products and care for it.

People with wavy or curly hair are always looking for new products, tips and tricks to lock in their desired look. Whether they want to blow it straight, create looser curls or maximize their tighter coils, she shares her best tips for girls with curls who want to revel in their natural hair and create a style they love.

Understand the battle between oil and moisture.

handled with care, she recommends.”

Step One: Pick your products wisely.

Maya applied over 2 decades of research and development based on working knowledge of hair texture and listening to what people wanted. “I created The Doux™ SUCKA FREE Moisturizing Shampoo and FRESH RINSE Moisturizing Conditioner as the one-two step that delivers both deep cleaning plus exceptional nourishment necessary for styling.”

Step Two: Prep for shampoo.

Maya’s professional instructions for curl mastery begins with rinsing hair thoroughly with water for a minimum of 30 seconds. “This helps to eliminate any water-soluble product buildup, such as hair gel or heat protectant. It also helps you save shampoo! Assuming you’re shampooing in the shower, letting the water run over the hair in a downward motion helps prevent further tangling, and allows the hair shaft to swell and the curl pattern to fully rebound.” For those with extremely thick hair, Maya suggests separating hair into 4 sections prior to wetting the hair for increased manageability.

The first thing people must understand is that there are opposite things going on at the same time. “Due to the shape of curly haired strands, the hair tends to be under moisturized. On the other hand, the curly haired scalp can get very oily. Managing these opposite demands is the struggle of girls who wish to keep their curls. The key here is knowing how best to address both,” explains Maya who led the movement for women to transition from relaxers to natural curls.

Once the shampoo is applied, Maya recommends light manipulation at the scalp, going from the crown of the head to the nape of the neck. “Squishing” the hair up toward the scalp is a no-no.

“Shampooing this way can cause unforgivable tangling and matting. I recommend repeating the shampooing process at least once.”

Be gentle when washing curly hair.

If your scalp was properly shampooed, conditioning is easy. “This time, you’re focusing on your thirsty ends first, working upward toward the scalp. Gently detangle with a wide-toothed comb or detangling brush (the favorite is Felicia Leatherwood's "Brush with the

According to Maya, kinky, thick, coiled textures tend to appear “tough” and strong enough to withstand heavy manipulation. "in my experience, these hair types are actually the most delicate, and should be

Step Three: Condition and comb through like a pro.

Best” detangling brush) before rinsing, starting at the ends, working up toward to the roots. Remember to rinse with cool water which snaps cuticles shut, locks in moisture, makes your hair shinier and reduces frizz.”

When it comes to “co-washing” or “conditioner washing,” Maya equates the popular trend to washing your clothes with fabric softener. “In my experience, co-washing causes build-up on the hair, coating the cuticle and impairing the hair’s natural ability to absorb water. Oils, waxes, and product residue harden on the hair shaft, making it more brittle and less porous over time. When the hair can no longer effectively absorb water, the elasticity of the hair is compromised, leaving the hair “crunchy” and stiff, where it is more likely to break. The result is hair that feels dry and brittle, no matter what product you use to moisturize it,” explains Maya.

One of the things Maya Smith and her team of stylists are known for is their ability to restore hundreds of their clients’ curls, simply by getting them to trade in the co-wash for a gentle, pH-balanced moisturizing shampoo, like The Doux’s SUCKA FREE which properly cleanses hair of product residue. “Once you have the hair thoroughly clean it “drinks” up the necessary amount of moisture, and returns to its natural softness,” Maya clarifies.

Avoid alcohol and kick the crunch to the curb.

Styling products high in alcohol give curls a crunchy feel. They suck up every last bit of moisture. Hair spray tends to contain the most alcohol, while gels, mousses and anything that provides hold or lift come in second. “I recommend water-soluble gels that don't feel sticky on your skin, and aerated mousses or foams that resemble beaten egg whites, to give hair fullness, control, and non-brittle curls," Maya says.

She adds that she created The Doux so it can be used on hair that is worn curly or straight. "Our clients purchase one set of

products, and apply them differently to achieve the style they want. If you’re rocking curly hair today, you’re using The Doux’s Mousse Def and Bonita Afro Balm for softness and definition, and The Light for shine. If you’re wearing a blowout, you’re still using the same products, but applying them less liberally, and using the shine mist as a heat protectant. It’s super simple and easy to follow once you’ve seen the results each of them deliver,” Maya explains.

Kinky, thick coiled textures tend to appear "tough" and strong enough to withstand heavy manipulation.

In my experience, these hair types are

actually the most delicate, and should be handled with care...

Blow-Dry with a diffuser or hooded dryer.

Maya’s first choice for curly styles is to air dry. “If you don't have the time to air dry, then dry with a diffuser or hooded dryer on a low heat setting. A regular blow dryer nozzle disrupts the curl pattern and focuses hot air on one small section at a time, while a diffuser, dries curls evenly for a full, uniform look,” she explains.

Maya recommends always applying a heat-protecting product, then flipping your head upside down using a diffuser at the roots and mid-length making sure to dry the area completely to lock in volume. “It’s important to leave the ends for last, and leave them only semidry. Air drying the ends is your best option.”

Care for the curls you were born with!