MEMBER SPOTLIGHT – Yann Martel, Author of “Life of Pi”







Yann Martel is best known as the author of the modern classic “Life of Pi.” But he also happens to be a longtime member at CrossFit Brio in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. In this conversation with host Jocelyn Rylee, Yann shares how CrossFit became part of his life more than 14 years ago, and why he still shows up to class five days a week.







The two also discuss his writing process, the symbolism behind “Life of Pi," and how fiction and fitness both shape how we understand ourselves and the world. Surprise guest Dave Castro crashes the conversation midway through to meet the author and share why “Life of Pi” is one of his favorite books of all time.







EPISODE TOPICS









Yann’s first CrossFit workout (and why he loved it)







How Dave and Yann first connected







The symbolism behind “Life of Pi” (and what the ending means)







How Yann structures his writing process







How fiction makes us better thinkers









RESOURCES MENTIONED









“Life of Pi” by Yann Martel







“East of Eden” by John Steinbeck







“Of Mice and Men” by John Steinbeck







“Call of the Wild” and White Fang” by Jack London







The Bible, Quran, and Book of Mormon (mentioned by Dave)







Yann's upcoming book: “Son of Nobody”









Community Highlight







Shannon Schleifer has been bringing CrossFit to public schools in Las Vegas, Nevada, for the past decade. At Fremont Academy, she built a CrossFit elective where students learn to move with intention, and understand how it connects to what they’re studying in science class.







The setup is simple: folding rigs, barbells, dumbbells. But the impact is huge. Her classes stay full, and kids are gaining confidence in what their bodies can do.







Shannon retires this year, but she’s not done. Her goal is to expand CrossFit in public schools because for many kids, this is their only shot.







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