Seven of the Most Incredible Athletes of 2017

One fought off a vicious attack to run again on her own terms. Others forged new paths in the wake of life-altering diagnoses. And then there’s the father whose grief blended with joy as he crossed the finish line with a living reminder of the daughter he’d lost. My job introduces me to so many amazing athletes every year, and 2017 was no exception. Here—in no particular order—are seven of the stories that have stuck with me this year. Read the full article on aSweatLife.com.

7 Things I Learned from 29 Episodes of the #WeGotGoals Podcast

wgglogoWhen we first took the #WeGotGoals concept to an audio format in April, we already knew we were onto something compelling. We’d already had some of these conversations for aSweatLife.com, pulling back the curtain on the goal-setting techniques of some of the most successful individuals in Chicago (and beyond). Transmitting their voices directly to your earbuds could only add to the depth and power of their insights. I’ve been co-hosting and editing the show from the beginning, and I’m blown away by what we’ve learned—and shared with you, our listeners—along the way. Read the full article for aSweatLife.com

Denise Lee, CEO of ALALA Activewear Talks Bringing a Dream Into Reality

When she trained for her first triathlon six years ago, Denise Lee was swimming, biking, or running six days a week. But she couldn’t find gear that made her “feel like a badass.” So she set about to craft activewear with a look that motivated her to train harder and reflected her edgy, urban, high-fashion style. ALALA, the athleisure company she launched four years ago—before athleisure was even a word—has gone on to thrive despite burgeoning racksful of competitors. Hear more on this week’s #WeGotGoals.