Without Compromise

In this episode of Without Compromise, we sit down with award-winning journalist, author, podcaster, and Athletic Brewing ambassador, Brendan O’Meara to talk about his book The Front Runner: The Story of Steve Prefontaine. Through vivid storytelling, O’Meara brings to life the grit, charisma, and uncompromising drive of one of America’s most iconic sports figures. We explore Prefontaine’s rise from small-town Oregon to the world stage, his rebellious approach to competition, and the enduring lessons his life offers about passion, purpose, and refusing to settle. Brendan has been a longstanding ambassador for Athletic Brewing, and hosts the Creative Nonfiction Podcast. You can learn more about him and his work at brendanomeara.com

Back in 2020, we sat down with chef, cyclist, and entrepreneur Chris Cosentino to talk about food, creativity, and living life without compromise. Five years later, he returns to the show to catch us up on where life has taken him, and how he continues to reinvent himself.In this conversation, Chris opens up about the ever-changing restaurant industry, what it takes to stay authentic in the face of shifting trends, and the lessons he’s learned about resilience and risk. We also dive into his love of cycling, how the bike has shaped his lifestyle, mindset, and even his professional choices. Finally, Chris reflects on the deeper work of identity: what it means to keep evolving, to embrace new passions, and to stay true to yourself through change.Whether you know Chris from the kitchen, the bike saddle, or his creative projects, this episode offers an honest and inspiring look at a life lived fully, and always without compromise.

It’s not every day you meet someone who has stood on the highest peak of every continent and now leads one of the world’s most iconic endurance brands. In this episode of Without Compromise, we sit down with Scott DeRue, CEO of The IRONMAN Group, to talk about the journey that brought him from academia to the forefront of global endurance sport.Now, as CEO, Scott is steering IRONMAN into the future while honoring its rich legacy. He shares what he’s learned from standing at finish lines around the world, how the IRONMAN ethos of “Anything is Possible” applies to both athletes and everyday people, and what excites him about the movement’s next chapter. Outside of his role, Scott is an avid mountaineer, having completed the Seven Summits earlier this year. Athletic Brewing and IRONMAN have partnered for years, built on a shared belief that balance, resilience, and community matter as much as performance. Together, they’re helping athletes celebrate their pursuits, without compromise.

This episode was originally published in 2022, but is now more relevant than ever.When we first released this episode, Lynn Rogers was deep in the fight of navigating her new reality after the sudden onset of CIDP, a rare neurological condition that had left her unable to walk just weeks before she was supposed to compete in her first IRONMAN.Her resilience, perspective, and determination struck a powerful chord with listeners. So much so, in fact, that her story became the inspiration for Athletic Brewing’s 2024 documentary, Inches to Miles.Since the release of that film, there’s been a major development: Lynn recently completed an IRONMAN, officially finishing what she set out to do years ago. Her journey from paralysis to the finish line is a remarkable example of what it means to live Without Compromise.We’re replaying this conversation to honor that achievement and give you a deeper look at the person behind the headlines.After listening, be sure to:Watch Inches to Miles (2024). It’s free on YouTubeFollow @AthleticBrewing for behind-the-scenes updates and Lynn’s latest finish line moment

In this episode of Without Compromise, we sit down with Crosby Colapinto, a rising star on the professional surfing circuit. Hailing from San Clemente, California, Crosby shares what it’s like growing up in the tight-nit surfing community, competing alongside his brother Griffin, and staying grounded while chasing the dream of becoming a world champion. We talk about mental resilience, his love of surfing and golf, and how staying true to your values, on and off the board, is the ultimate mark of success.Crosby’s laid-back attitude and deep love for the ocean remind us that living without compromise means embracing the journey, not just the destination. Whether you’re a lifelong surfer or just someone chasing your own passion, this episode is full of heart, grit, and inspiration.

In this episode of Without Compromise, we sit down with Jazmine Lowther, a professional trail runner, plant biologist, and coach. Raised on a farm in Nelson, British Columbia, Jazmine found her footing early among forests and alpine trails. From barefoot childhood adventures to breaking course records in some of the toughest mountain ultras in the world, her story is one of instinct, curiosity, and bold pivots. We dive into her transition from climbing to ultra-running, her science-driven approach to training, and how she’s navigated injury, competition, and recovery.Jazmine opens up about what it means to live “without compromise” as both an athlete and a scientist, sharing lessons from the mountains, the lab, and her coaching practice. She reflects on her breakout season, the power of self-coaching, and how her love of wild places fuels not only her athletic pursuits but her environmental ethos. Whether you’re chasing your next race or just looking to reconnect with what moves you, this episode offers a thoughtful, grounded conversation on balance, grit, and doing things differently.

In this episode of Without Compromise, we sit down with elite mountain runner and endurance athlete Tyler Andrews to unpack his bold attempt to set a speed record on Mount Everest. From hallucinations at 8,400 meters to boot failures and brutal weather windows, Tyler brings us deep into the mental and physical demands of chasing FKTs at the highest altitudes on Earth. He reflects on what went right, what went wrong, and why he’s still hungry for more. We also explore the mindset that drives him to live without compromise—whether he's racing up volcanoes, running hundreds of miles, or planning his next summit push.Find out more about Athletic Brewing at athleticbrewing.comWatch Athletic Brewing's FKT documentary, Journey to 100, here.

Brenden Blotnicky, Manager of Trail Development & Volunteers for Trans Canada Trail, joins us to explore how one of the world’s longest recreational networks comes to life, and thrives. From early-morning runs along the salt marshes of Nova Scotia to coordinating national trail expansions and volunteer programs, Brenden brings both heart and strategy to a job that connects communities across Canada. In this episode, we dig into his path to trail stewardship, how his background in environmental management shapes his work, and the real-world impact of support from Athletic Brewing’s Two for the Trails program. Brenden also shares the lessons he’s learned from volunteers, the biggest challenges of scaling a national trail system, and why he believes the future of sustainable recreation starts with community. While you're listening, dreaming of being out on a trail or your next adventure, crack open a cold Athletic brew!

In this episode of Without Compromise, we sit down with Omar Shaikh, Global Partnerships and Ventures Director at Arsenal Football Club. Omar shares his journey to the Premier League club and his work in strengthening the connection they have with their supporters in London around the world. He opens up about the history and values of the club, and the lessons he’s learned while navigating the intersection of sport, business, and brand strategy.Omar also discusses what it takes to build meaningful partnerships in football, how Arsenal stays true to its values while innovating for the future, and why purpose-driven leadership is key to staying ahead. Whether you're passionate about sports, leadership, or charting your own path, this conversation is full of insight, heart, and inspiration. Plus, don’t miss Omar’s take on living Without Compromise on and off the pitch.

James Beard Award-winning chef Chris Shepherd made his name celebrating Houston’s diverse food culture but his impact hasn't stopped there. In this episode, Chris shares how his passion for cooking evolved into a deeper calling. After witnessing firsthand (and hearing countless stories about) the unique challenges faced by service industry professionals, he founded the Southern Smoke Foundation to support those needs. The impact was immediate and Chris hasn't looked back. Chris has stepped away from the restaurant world to focus full-time on the nonprofit, which has since distributed over $14 million to industry professionals in crisis.We dive deep into stories of resilience, the state of mental health in the food world, and how a collab with Aftershift, brewed with Athletic Brewing, has become a symbol of resilience and recognition for service industry professionals everywhere.

In this episode of Without Compromise we sit down with Ryan Chao, President of Rails to Trails Conservancy (RTC), to explore the transformative power of trails, not just as places to recreate, but as vital community infrastructure. With a background in architecture and community development, Ryan shares how his personal journey led him to advocate for a nation connected by trails. From biking and skiing with his family to navigating policy and equity challenges, Ryan offers a compelling look at how trails support health, economic opportunity, and environmental resilience across urban, rural, and suburban communities alike.We also dive into Celebrate Trails Day and RTC’s partnership with Athletic Brewing through the Two for the Trails program, Athletic’s cornerstone initiative that supports trails across the country and world. Whether you’re a lifelong trail user or just starting to explore the outdoors, this conversation will leave you inspired to get involved and advocate for accessible, connected open spaces for all.

In this episode, we sit down with the hilarious and multi-talented Danae Hays—former Division I softball player turned comedian, musician, and viral content creator. Danae opens up about growing up in small-town Morris, Alabama, the early influence of sports on her confidence and creativity, and whether she was, in fact, the funniest one in the dugout. We trace her path from post-college uncertainty to that moment when she realized comedy wasn’t just a side hustle—it was her next homerun.Danae shares how she crafts her unique blend of Southern charm with unfiltered humor and outrageous characters, what it’s like building a massive online audience, and the highs and lows of life on her very first stand-up tour. Plus: rapid-fire favorites, Southern sayings, and her take on living Without Compromise.

In this inspiring episode of Without Compromise, we sit down with Liz Wian, Chief Development Officer of Girls on the Run International, to explore the power of movement, mentorship, and mission-driven partnerships. Liz shares her journey from craft beer to nonprofit leadership and how her personal connection as a mother to a GOTR girl fuels her passion for empowering young women. We discuss the impact of the innovative Girls on the Run curriculum, which combines running and physical activity with confidence-building impact, as well as the organization’s collaboration with Athletic Brewing’s annual Women’s History Month brew, Trailblazer. Liz also offers insights on leadership, relationship-building, and the importance of supporting women-led ventures. Tune in for an uplifting conversation about forging new paths, creating lasting impact, and celebrating the trailblazing women and girls shaping the future.Learn more about Girls on the Run and our annual Women's History Month brew, Trailblazer, here.

In this episode, we sit down with standout point guard Jeremy Roach to explore his journey as a Division 1 basketball player, and how he's preparing for another deep run in the high-stakes tournament this month. Jeremy opens up about the challenges he faced after tearing his ACL in high school, reflecting on how that adversity shaped his mindset and approach to the game. He shares insights on leadership, explaining how he's embraced his role in guiding teammates and staying composed in high-pressure moments. From his experiences playing on international stages to the habits that keep him performing at his best, Jeremy offers a glimpse into what it takes to excel on and off the court.Off the hardwood, Jeremy shares some surprising passions — including his love for golf and the influence of his jazz musician father, who introduced him to music at a young age. He reflects on the balance he's found between basketball and personal growth and passions, emphasizing the importance of staying grounded amid the demands of elite competition. As the postseason heats up, Jeremy’s focus, leadership, and dedication are sure to leave a lasting impact.

In this episode, we sit down with professional fisherman Justin Lucas to talk about the early trips with his grandfather that hooked him on his career path, and how he’s been so successful in tournament fishing for the past 15 years. Justin shares how his passion for fishing aligns with Athletic Brewing’s commitment to an active, balanced lifestyle. He dives into his journey as a competitive angler, the importance of staying sharp on and off the water, and why he believes in the non-alcoholic craft beer movement.Whether you’re an avid angler, a fan of the sport, or just love a good success story, this conversation offers insight into a world we’ve never explored on Without Compromise before. Tune in for an inspiring discussion about dedication to your craft, innovation, and enjoying the best of life on and off the water. 

In this episode, we catch up with triathlon stars and Athletic Brewing ambassadors Ben Kanute and Jackson Laundry as they navigate major transitions ahead of the new season. Ben shares his excitement about an upcoming move that will reshape his training environment and push him to new heights. Meanwhile, Jackson opens up about the injury that has sidelined him, offering a candid look at the battles that come with injury recovery. Both athletes reflect on how these changes are shaping their preseason approach and what they mean for their 2024 goals.Beyond their personal journeys, we discuss the broader challenges of preseason preparation—balancing training, responsibilities, and the constant evolution required to stay competitive. Ben and Jackson share insights into their mindset during uncertain times and how they stay focused on long-term success. Whether you’re an athlete facing your own hurdles or just a fan of the sport, this conversation delivers an honest and inspiring look at the resilience it takes to perform at the highest level. Find out more about Athletic Brewing and where to buy at athleticbrewing.com.

Fifteen years ago, Kiera laced up her running shoes for a local 5K, not knowing it would spark a lifelong passion for the sport—and a mission for change. Now, as the Executive Director of the Running Industry Diversity Coalition, she’s leading the charge to create a more inclusive and accessible running community. From increasing visibility for Black, Indigenous, and People of Color in outdoor spaces to driving justice initiatives, Kiera is building inclusion in running from the inside out.Before stepping into the running industry, Kiera made waves in the startup world as Executive Director of Philly Startup Leaders, where she rebranded the organization, launched an accelerator for emerging entrepreneurs, and secured over $500,000 in grants for underrepresented founders. She also played a key role in launching Philadelphia’s equity-based bike-sharing program, setting a national precedent for urban transportation equity. Named a RAD Awards Finalist and one of Metro’s "Black Power Players," Kiera is a force for change—committed to making space at the table for everyone, even if it means building a bigger one.In this episode, Kiera shares how she’s breaking down barriers, amplifying diverse voices, and redefining what it means to truly belong in the running community.Find out where you can take Athletic January into the rest of the year at athleticbrewing.com.

Today we’re sitting down with Russell Winfield, a snowboarding legend and the first Black professional snowboarder, to hear about his incredible career. Russell shares stories from his unique childhood of pursuing hockey, writing, and music as well as how he navigated a sport that wasn’t always inclusive, and the lasting impact he’s made on snowboarding culture. We dive into his passion to influence the next generation of riders and his thoughts on the evolution of the industry. Get ready for an inspiring conversation filled with grit, determination, and plenty of Russell’s signature charm and wisdom.At Athletic Brewing, we craft brews with flavor that fills your cup, variety to change things up, and a thirst for fun that can’t be quenched! Our NA beers are anything but boring. This January, ditch the dull side of dry and reimagine the month with us! Athletic January is here and you’re invited.Learn more about Athletic January at AthleticBrewing.com

When Amanda Hesser was pursuing a profession after college, she decided to take the road less traveled and less certain by pursuing a love of traditional methods of cooking in kitchens scattered around Europe. As her passion for cooking and food continued, it started taking her out of the kitchen and into the keyboard which ultimately led to a dream career in food journalism for the New York Times. Landing a job with NYT might be the pinnacle of any career, but after a while Amanda felt pulled to something else. In 2008 she launched Food52, an online community that combines cooking, home goods, and a social network for food lovers. Today we’re going to hear more about Amanda’s story and how Athletic Brewing has partnered with Food52 to craft our new brew, Host & Toast, a Belgian-style White bursting with flavor. It features sweet Meyer lemon and notes of Grains of Paradise atop herbal and peppery undertones. Whether you enjoy it on its own or elevated in an NA cocktail, it’s an easy pick for effortless entertaining. Bring it home and let the hosting begin!You can purchase Host & Toast here. 

Today, we’re sitting down with musician and songwriter Jake Scott to discuss his rise in the music industry and how he managed to stand out among new artists with a unique strategy: releasing one song per month for over three years.Jake's journey in the LA music scene is distinctive in other ways as well. Born and raised in Arkansas, a place not typically associated with pop artists, Jake's unconventional background, including writing music for other artists, has shaped his unique songwriting style, proficiency, and sound.