Well-being  Associate Testimonials Landing Page |
May 14, 2024 |
Associate Profiles
We are hoping to inspire you with stories from associates who have taken steps in their own lives to LiveWell. Read on as we highlight amazing associates who exemplify the foundations of our wellness program (physical, emotional, and financial wellness) in their lives as part of a special series of profiles called “How I Live Well”.
How I LiveWell: Michael Hasty
What activity are you sharing with us and what (or who) inspired you to get involved in this activity?
Since January of 2019, I’ve been working on improving my overall wellness through increased actvity and smarter eating. I’ve always been a big guy. When I worked at Camp Lewallen with the Boy scouts I was at my lightest around 230. Then after college I gained the typical 20 pounds. Then another 20 pounds. At one point I was over 300 pounds. I had done diets before, but it didn’t really stay off. I’d go right back into those bad habits again and about a year later all the hard work was gone. It wasn’t until December of 2018 that I had that light bulb moment. There is always drama around the holidays, but it seemed I had much more on my plate than usual that month. Mentally I was breaking. My wife noticed I seemed defeated when I’d get home. I wasn’t being myself and she was worried. I saw that look of concern and I felt guilty. That’s not a feeling I wanted anymore. I had to make a change.
I made a promise to start in January this past year. Around that same time, our Wellness team at Osceola debuted a Fit Factor competition. As a competitive person, I used this as a spark for the fire. I wanted to win. And I was hoping, that maybe afterwards, whatever healthy habits I learned along the way I’d keep using after the competition ended.
What does this activity involve (training, competitions, diet, etc.)
To succeed I knew I was going to have to be more active and adjust my diet. But I needed to do something different this time to avoid getting the same results as before. I didn’t want to do a fad diet, because I was afraid I couldn’t stick with it. I didn’t want to go overboard on exercise and risk injury either. I needed to take a different approach and make small changes that would add up. This time I had Fit Factor and Real Appeal.
The main benefit of Fit Factor was that it was more than just a weight loss competition. The focus was on wellness. The scoring system gave you points for losing weight, but also for posting socially about healthy food choices, signing up and attending Real Appeal sessions, using the in-plant facility to exercise, sitting in on health seminars, running races and more. This was also a tough competition. If I wanted to win, I was going to have to do things out of my comfort zone. First attempt at a burpee I smoked my knee on concrete. Learned I needed to buy a yoga matt really quick. Also completing a 5K race was worth 100 points! I’d never ran/jogged/walked a 5K race in my life! And my competition was doing them. This pushed me and motivated me to run two 5K’s in late April. I also joined a men’s basketball team in February, men’s softball league in August, I try to walk at least 10,000 steps a day or if it’s nasty outside instead of sitting on the couch watching my favorite shows I’ll watch them while on an exercise bike.
On the diet side, Real Appeal was a fantastic tool. I was given a success kit that had a food scale, recipes, work out DVDs, and other items. I also had weekly meetings with an online coach. I’d be asked to check in on weight and would talk about my successes or failures of the week. It kept me accountable. I’d set weekly goals and watch videos on various topics. They taught me how to better meal prep too.
Another thing critical was for 3 weeks I wrote down every single thing I ate and how many calories it was. The engineer in me even put it in Excel…not sure how proud I am to admit that part…but it worked. I compared my daily calorie intake total to what my basal metabolic calorie range for my age/weight/height to maintain. Then I input my weight goals into Real Appeal and it helped me calculate how many calories I needed to eat a day depending upon my activity level to lose weight weekly. 1 pound is 3500 calories. If I wanted to lose at least 1 pound a week I was going to need to decrease my calorie count or increase my exercise by 500 calories a day. I went back and used my food list to look for things I could cut, like drinking coffee black every morning. I also looked for food substitutions like broccoli fries instead of regular fries. Finding ways to cut calories per day was easier for me this way as I had a visual tool to show me what I was eating daily.
What is your favorite part of this activity?
Definitely the results. I’ve dropped over 80 pounds and gone from a size 46 waist to a 36. Granted…buying new pants constantly was a tad big annoying but well worth it in the end.
How do you feel this activity has impacted your health and well-being – emotionally/physically?
Physically I am in much better shape. I started jogging around my neighborhood to prepare for my first 5K. Since then I’ve kept jogging, and I can tell from where I was at in April to now, I can jog further and longer before I need to take a walk. From April to September I was able to improve my 5K time by almost 8 minutes. Mentally I’m in a much better place as well. I’ve used jogging as a stress relief. And most importantly, my wife sees me happier when I come home. I don’t see that worry look on her face anymore.
Has this changed the way you interact with friends/family?
No doubt. Real Appeal offers guidance on how to deal with parties and situations where you may be tempted to fall off the wagon. Thankfully my friends were supportive (after being asked many times where the rest of me went) and nobody even had a thought to sabotage my progress. No judgements from anyone if I didn’t drink as much or eat as much as before. My dad was extremely proud of me and it helped motivate him to do more too. He got a Fitbit for Christmas this year to try and keep up with me. My mom cried. I’ll admit I felt bad on that one initially, but I didn’t tell her how much weight I’d loss, it had been a few months since I’d been home, and the shock got her when she saw me. So, it was a good cry at least. Not to mention my wife is my number 1 fan. She’s been supportive in helping me come up with better meal planning, joining me in the 5K’s, and been my rock.
Do you have any specific or future goals?
Fit Factor ended in April of 2019. The competition may have been over, but the results had me hooked and I was not stopping. A little over half the weight I lost was during that competition, the rest I lost afterwards. The healthy habits I picked up I keep using today. I still attend Real Appeal sessions.
My goals for this year, besides defending my crown in Fit Factor 2, are to try to lose a few more pounds, shave a few more minutes off my 5K time, and just keep going. I have not landed on a target weight yet other than not fall off the wagon.
Can you recommend resources for anyone looking for more info – please list favorite blogs, books, websites, local trainers, videos, etc.
Not everything works for everyone, but I did find Real Appeal very helpful. I also found having a Fitbit keeps me motivated to stay active. I used almost a dozen different sites when I was calculating my basal metabolic rate at various activity levels to get an overall average.
What have you learned that would help other associates on their wellness journey?
Two things stand out to me. One is that the smallest changes add up to make a big difference over time so don’t rush your results. There is no shame in starting out with simple changes in diet and exercising. You may only be able to bike for 10 minutes now, but that 10 minutes can become 30 or 60 over time. Losing 1 pound a week is still 52 pounds in a year. Second is make sure you truly understand why you are doing what you are doing. You are about to start on making a big positive change in your wellness, and if you have a deep understanding for your reasoning and motivation, it will help strengthen your resolve when you hit those plateaus (either in weight loss, extra life drama, doubts, etc.)
What is your #1 piece of advice based on your past experiences?
Don’t go full cold turkey unless it’s a health-related reason. If you want a piece of cake, you can have a piece of cake. It’s not the end of the world. A common term for it is calorie banking, where you eat less on one meal to save calories for later (Example a salad for lunch to eat a cupcake after dinner). If you go full cold turkey, you will find yourself more tempted to fail on your diet.
Do you talk about your experiences in social media? If yes, do you care to share your info so other associates can follow you?
I post briefly (except when I get points in the Fit Factor competition) in our American Greetings Osceola Wellness Facebook page, but otherwise not really. However, I am open to answering questions and I enjoy sharing my story to motivate others. I promise to give you a much better answer than I ate less and moved more. I only use that answer for laughs.
back to top
How I LiveWell: Joey Hanna
What activity are you sharing with us and what (or who) inspired you to get involved in this activity?
Running/Triathlon…. I had spent years on the road as a touring musician, and all of that free catering and road food started to really take a toll on me. Free alcohol wasn’t helping either if I’m going to be totally honest. During my off times from the road I was attending flight school (another passion of mine and backup plan at the time) and when I went to get my pilots medical physical I was stunned at my weight. I knew it was high but you can get pretty good at fooling yourself. The doctor was a bit harsh but I really have to thank him to this day because his honesty really got me going in the right direction, and in a hurry. I started walking that afternoon. I love music so much so I’d put on headphones and just start walking. It was great! The walks got longer and longer, they started to evolve into very slow jogging, into longer slower jogging, and then I started running in each city we’d hit on any given tour. It was a fantastic way to see each city in a new way and it kept me in check to get enough sleep and eat better and to be ready to play on stage every night. The final straw to get me totally hooked was this though... We were asked to play for the start AND finish of the NYC marathon. I’m originally from NY and had always been amazed by that race. Well, being there in person and seeing those runners start In Staten Island and then finish in Central Park was just the most inspiring thing I’d seen in a long time. That day I said I’d run a marathon. The next few years were pretty nuts for me. I was playing with bigger and bigger artists, on longer and longer tours but I kept running running no matter what. At this time it was impossible to train to race, but even though I had absolutely NO idea what I was doing, I was building a good mileage base for running that would come in handy later. At the end of my last long and really grueling tour, I knew I was going to take a long break from touring, and possibly retire out right. I still to this day remember my plane landing at JFK from a long flight from Europe and I said “ This is the year I run a marathon”. It did end up being the year but man did I underestimate how hard it would be. It was not even CLOSE to the time I was shooting for, but by this point I was just happy to get one under my belt.
What does this activity involve (training, competitions, diet, etc.)
After that first marathon disaster, I still knew I could be a good runner. I just needed to learn A LOT. One day a local running store owner in NY saw me running and offered to help me. He took me under his wing and we are still very close this many years later. I started slowly tweaking everything. The results started changing fast at this point. I couldn’t believe the runner I was turning into honestly. He was the first to tell me “It never really gets easier, you just get faster” and he was right. I started winning my age group in races and with any success I had, I just wanted to work harder and harder at it. It wasn’t work. I LOVED it, which most people think is insane, and probably is partially but I’m a musician so I’m probably a bit off to begin with. I started running more and more, up to 80 miles per week, eating MUCH healthier and started actually winning races outright. I tend to be a bit competitive (understatement) so I was now getting hooked on the competition side of things. Along the way I found out that I had a genetic issue in my hip and all of the running basically destroyed it and created a pelvic stress fracture as well. I was petrified that I’d never be able to run again! I had to have a pretty major hip surgery a few years ago. The surgeon suggested that if I COULD come back to running, I get into triathlons to put some more stress on biking and ease up on the running a little bit..I did in fact start into the tri world and I was hooked there too. Triathlons consist of swimming, biking and then running and they come in all different kinds of distances. I tend to like the longer stuff. Ironically I write this with a walking boot on my foot as the result of a running injury so at the moment I’m only allowed to bike on a bike trainer, with no running for a while, but my typical training week generally is down to something like 45-50 miles per week running with a long bike ride or two thrown in and I try to swim a bit, but that can be the hard one schedule wise at the moment. Because of my schedule I do 99% of my training early in the morning before work so I’m usually up at 5:30 and out the door for whatever workout is called for for that day.
What is your favorite part of this activity?
Running really is like free therapy for me. Biking has become that as well. I love that you generally get out of it, what you put into it. I love being outside. I try to run in every kind of weather, unless it’s icy. With the bike, in Cleveland, you do find yourself riding in place for hours at a time which can be REALLY draining but I’m convinced that it has made me stronger emotionally. My close friends know that my life has thrown me a few curve balls over the past few years, and training has helped me in ways I don’t think I even completely understand. I’d be absolutely lost without it, so even when I’m working my way back from an injury and missing out on a race, I’m always so thankful to just be out there putting one foot in front of the other. I was told after my surgery that what you do after a setback is what truly defines you. I find that to be very true, and I keep stumbling upon these things that I learn through training that really are just metaphors for life in general.
How do you feel this activity has impacted your health and well-being – emotionally/physically?
Like I said, it’s like free therapy for me. From the time the pilot doctor told me to lose weight, I’m currently 70 lbs down from that day which is pretty nuts to think about. In training and especially racing, if you let your mind go negative, you’re done. Caput. It’s trained me to be stronger, be more positive in everything I do really, and it’s one of the most humbling things I’ve ever done, and a little dose of humility is never a bad thing if you ask me! On the diet side, it’s changed me dramatically. At first it was “I run so I can eat what I want”…Then you realize when you skip that second plate of food, you run a bit faster because you feel lighter on your feet the next day. Then you start realizing what does and doesn’t work for your body. It’s like you’re constantly trying to trim the aircraft for perfect straight and level flight but the aircraft is our body. When you get it trimmed correctly everything just feels so efficient and easy. I’ve gone too far the other way too, where I took away TOO many kinds of foods and you feel light on your feet but you just don’t have the strength that you want to have. I love constantly trying to find that perfect balance.
Has this changed the way you interact with friends/family?
Bigtime. I’m so happy when I come back from a great workout or just a beautiful fall run at easy pace. I have SO much more energy to play with the kids and take them on rides etc. My son Jameson is severely autistic and one of his true loves is riding in the bike trailer. He’s not getting any smaller and it’s getting harder and harder to pull him up hills so if nothing else I need to stay in shape just to do that! I have actually made a ton of friends here in the Cleveland running and biking community. I love helping others get ready for races with training plans and advice as well, because of what my friend back in NY did for me. It’s funny because so many guys I compete against are all part of this group, and we help each other, console each other after bad races, or injuries, but then we are trying to run each others faces into the ground during a race! It’s kind of hard to wrap your head around at times, but it sure keeps things interesting. The only real downside is if I’m in serious training mode, I have to leave night events earlier than I’d like to sometimes with friends, or I have to miss out on things all together if it’s the night before a race or something but I try to balance things where that doesn’t happen too often.
Do you have any specific or future goals?
This is a funny one for me, because depending what happens with my current Achilles injury this might all change for me. The past few years I have qualified to run masters Nationals in a few different distances and I just want to run one of those to see how I stack up. I have run some great marathons, but NYC was always my dream and I was on my way to finally run it the year it was cancelled because of Hurricane Sandy. But anyway you slice it, I’ll be turning more and more into triathlon world, given these running injuries that have been stacking up. My ultimate goal is to compete competitively in tri’s like the Olympic distance and possibly half ironman, and my main most important goal is to someday on the horizon complete an Ironman towing, pulling and pushing Jameson for the whole race. THAT one is going to happen J
Can you recommend resources for anyone looking for more info – please list favorite blogs, books, websites, local trainers, videos, etc.
First of all, for anyone at AG, I’m more than happy to help in any way. It’s something I’m very passionate about and I love watching people reach their goals no matter what they are shooting for. Just shoot me an email! Runners World is online and is a magazine that’s good for beginners. I am HUGE fan of the guys at Second Sole in Lakewood. They have been so good to me for so many years, and they are happy to help people at any level and they also have running groups for all levels. They are super supportive, and knowledgeable about all things running! For triathlon, “the triathletes training bible” by Joe Freil is the best thing I’ve read for triathlon but there is so much stuff out there now on Youtube etc, you can basically find out anything you need to know!
What have you learned that would help other associates on their wellness journey?
Start slow. Don’t scare yourself away by killing yourself with tough workouts right away. I walked for months. It was easy. Enjoy the journey, don’t fight it or put roadblocks up in front of yourself. In the end, it’s just about becoming healthier and happier so the trip getting there should be FUN!
What is your #1 piece of advice based on your past experiences?
These things always come out cheesy somehow, but I really believe this with every ounce of my soul. We truly can’t imagine what we are actually capable of and everyone is capable of more than they think. You just have to try.
Do you talk about your experiences in social media?
If yes, do you care to share your info so other associates can follow you? I’m one of the odd ducks not on most social media platforms. It’s just not for me. I did have a Strava account which is kind of like a facebook for runners and bikers etc. but I’ve stopped posting on there because I realized that it’s not healthy for certain personalities, mine being one of them. We tend to over do it because we know the workout info will be public and then you end up in a walking boot like myself. Live and learn!
back to top
How I LiveWell: Bob Krupitzer
Our next profile features Bob Krupitzer, Manager, Financial Reporting, who is an ultra runner.
What (or who) inspired you to get involved in this activity?
I enjoy the sport of Ultra Running. Ultra Running is technically any distance race greater than a marathon. 50K (31 miles) is usually considered the beginning point of Ultras. They are usually on trails instead of roads, which makes them a bit more difficult as you need to navigate uneven terrain as well as many more hills. They go up through 50 milers, 100K, 100 milers (and now even 200 milers are starting to pop up) and any distance in between. There are also timed events (12 hours / 24 hours) where people get some pretty good mileage in that would be considered an Ultra event. Personally, I have been running now for 11 or 12 years and have been doing Ultras for about 6 - 7 years. When I started running, I quickly jumped to marathons and did a bunch of those. I loved it, but wasn’t getting faster, so I decided to go longer. Since I started doing Ultras, I usually only do 2 a year. I have done many 50Ks, a few 50 milers, several 12 and 24 hour races and a 100 miler.
It was my twin brother that inspired me to start running. We were really close growing up. We played sports all the time, mainly soccer and basketball through high school. We even attended the same college and played soccer. He went off to medical school to become a doctor and lived in Baltimore after his residency. That was the first time in our lives that we did not live in the same town. After college, I did very little physical activity for almost 10 years. Then my twin brother decided to run a marathon. I thought he was crazy. But after he completed it, I was inspired to do the same, so I started running. Just over a year later, we ran the Cleveland Marathon together for the first of 5 times. It was AWESOME. We still lived apart, but when we got together, we were able to go for a nice long run. Being able to spend that time with him when we saw each other, and to talk about our training – what is working/not working, nutrition, etc., when we were not together kept me motivated to keep running because it allowed us the opportunity to be "together" even when we were apart.
Now that my brother has moved back to Cleveland, a lot of my inspiration comes from my kids. All three are very active. I want to be a good role model for them to enjoy an active life style. I don’t think that they comprehend yet what running 100 miles really means, but one day they will. I hope it shows them that they can do anything. I am also inspired by my coworkers. My boss, Rob Tyler, just finished his third straight Boston Marathon (he is fast!) and my other coworker, Amy Lucius, trained to complete the 5k / 10K Challenge races as part of the Cleveland Marathon race this year. Some people tell me that they’re not a real runner because they don’t run as far as I do – I always try to stop and tell them that the moment you put on your shoes to go out for run, no matter how far, means that you are a runner. A favorite running quote of mine is "The miracle isn't that I finished. The miracle is that I had the courage to start."
What does this activity involve (training, competitions, diet, etc.)
Training for long distances can take on many different forms. Since I have a full time job, kids (I coach their soccer and basketball teams) and a fantastic wife, that I love to be with, I don’t have a lot of extra time. I usually only run three times a week, sometimes four. Almost always in the early morning so that during the week I am home before kids are up or at least to help them get ready for school.
Mileage during the week can range from 3 - 8 miles per run. The important run for me is the long run on the weekend. (“The long run is what put the Tiger in the cat” is another one of my favorite running quotes.) The long runs start around 12 miles, but can get up to 30 miles/6 hours depending on the race I am training for. I used to follow training plans I found online or in magazines to the letter. But now, my brother and I know what needs to be done in order to be ready for a race, so we do our own thing. It makes it easier to be flexible. However, the long run is still the most important. I like to cross train with a spin class during the week, and go to as many Abs Classes (offered here at AG, taught by Tom Guta) as I can to strengthen my core muscles, which I think is key to endurance running. I have been going to Tom's classes for over 5 years. I usually only do one or two races a year so as not to interfere too much with family stuff, but I run all year long. I love running, but love my family more.
I don’t follow a certain diet. I eat fairly healthy, but could always make a few better choices, but healthy overall. I enjoy a good IPA, or two. But it is easier to eat healthy knowing that I am getting up at 4:30 a.m. the next day to run a few hours. My wife is a great cook and makes awesome dinners. Even with the craziness of three active kids, we are able to avoid any fast food because she can plan ahead four days and put something in the crockpot when needed.
Nutrition during an Ultra, especially when you are running for 24+ hours is a whole other topic that could take up many pages, so I won’t get into that here, but it is just as important for a successful race.
What is your favorite part of this activity?
I have a few favorite aspects that Trail and Ultra Running provide:
- I get to run a lot of it with my twin brother.
- It provides strength – both physical and mental. The physical part comes in the build up to a race. The mental part comes during a race – especially when you are tired and sore, but still have 30 miles or eight hours to go. There needs to be a tremendous amount of mental strength to keep moving. But once you learn it, it can be applied to other aspects of life, even at work!
- Sense of accomplishment. It takes months of hard work to get to the race. Then it takes a day or more to complete the race. I enjoy that sense of accomplishment….at least for a week or so before my brother and I start talking about our next race. We are never at the start line of a race with thoughts of crossing the finishing line first or accumulating the most miles. For the most part, Ultras, at least during the race itself, are personal examinations of who you are and what you are made of – it can become an existential exercise while "out there" on the trails. I believe Philosopher Jean-Paul Sartre could have enjoyed an Ultra or two…or maybe he would have found them absurd.
How do you feel this activity has impacted your health and well-being – emotionally/physically?
Nothing but positive impact. I have become stronger – physically, but more importantly, mentally. For example, last year for work, we had a huge project with a tight deadline. I worked almost 200 hours in the first 16 days of July to meet the deadline. I totally believe that the mental strength I learned from ultra-running had a huge influence on being able to stay focused in those long hours here at the office to successfully complete the project.
Do you have any specific or future goals?
- My brother and I signed up for the Oil Creek 100 (a 100 mile race in central PA) in October 2019. However, I had freak ankle injury (no, not on a steep single track trail, but while playing catch with my 8 year old daughter in our driveway, go figure) and I will undergo surgery in early June. I won’t be able to run for 18 weeks. Please offer positive thoughts that I can go that long! My brother is still going to run, so I will just be his crew for the race. I will be back next year.
- I always wanted to do seven marathons in seven days.
- Run Barkley Marathons.
- Keep running well into my retirement years.
- Do an Ultra with my kids.
Can you recommend resources for anyone looking for more info – please list favorite blogs, books, websites, local trainers, videos, etc.
There are a lot of really good and cool videos and documentaries on YouTube and Netflix about trail and ultra running. Unbreakable is about the incredible 2012 Western States race and The Barkley Marathons – the Race that Eats its Young are two of my favorite. (The Barkley Marathons is the most extreme of the Ultras you can find – but an entertaining documentary. I did the "Baby Barkley" (Barkley Fall Classic last year, which is just a "50k", but probably the hardest 50k in North America – what a race that was and one of the coolest experiences I have ever had!). I still subscribe to Runner’s World magazine. The best source is to just talk to other runners. The Ultra Running community as a whole is a tremendous group of people, always willing to help out.
You can also build up that core by attending Tom Guta’s Abs class on Wed/Thur here at Creative Studios. Tom has also offered couch to 5k, and 5k to 10k sessions if you are just getting into running. But if you are already running on the road, if you want, check out a local trail or two. There is a lot of beauty in an early morning trail run.
What have you learned that would help other associates on their wellness journey?
Start somewhere. It takes more courage to start than to finish. Find the joy in the challenge/accomplishment. No need to compare yourself to anyone. Only handful of people at starting line can be the first to cross the finish line, but anyone can get the same sense of accomplishment, maybe more, by just crossing the finish line. In my first 100 miler the winner finished in 19 hours. We finished in 28 hours. Was I upset that I finished a workday behind the winner? Hell no! I am still incredibly proud of that accomplishment!
What is your #1 piece of advice based on your past experiences?
Ultras are sometimes described as "Life in Day" (which is also the title of another really good documentary), which means that, as you run for a day/24 hours, you get to experience a lot of ups and downs just as you do in normal life. At some point during the race (life), things are going to go sideways and you have to deal with it. When this happens, you can’t stop and quit. You have to keep moving forward. The most important piece of advice is "RFP". My brother and I use a sharpie and write this on the back of our hat as a reminder. "RFP" is Relentless Forward Progress. Run if you can, walk if you have to, and crawl if you must…but keep moving forward. Just like in life, when something doesn’t go the way you thought, just keeping moving forward, keep trying, keep exceeding, keep believing, and things will be ok….maybe great, maybe even epic. But if you stopped when it got tough, you would never know.
Do you talk about your experiences in social media? If yes, do you care to share your info so other associates can follow you?
I do have a Strava account, but other than that I do not post stuff online. Even if I thought people would be interested, I haven’t a clue how to do that stuff. I still use Facebook (but mostly to look at running and soccer related pages). I think I might have an Instagram account, but don’t use it.
back to top
How I LiveWell: Sue Azzarello
Our profile features Sue Azzarello, Product Designer for Inbound Licensing, who practices yoga and meditation.
What (or who) inspired you to get involved with these activities?
Mike Gold, a retired lettering artist for AG, introduced me to meditation through the group he started here. I began attending yoga classes ten years ago at a local community center. I had always been involved in some sort of physical fitness and thought I’d give it a try.
What do these activities involve (training, competitions, diet, etc.)?
Yoga involves moving through a series of poses while concentrating on your breathing. Levels vary in complexity based on your physical capabilities and desired results, with some classes focusing on power and others on relaxing and restoring. Meditation involves nothing but sitting and being still. Both yoga and meditation have the same core objective becoming present.
What is your favorite part of these activities?
There are many things I love about yoga. It increases my flexibility and strength. The different twisting poses help to wring out my organs and cleanse my body of toxins. It helps me sleep better. Most importantly, yoga has evolved into a spiritual and meditative practice for me. It's where I go to re-center myself, decrease stress and bring myself back to a place of gratitude. What I love about meditation is that it helps to calm my mind. When I’m able to quiet the constant mind chatter, my intuition has room to kick in bringing a broader perspective to what’s most important in my life.
How do you feel this activity has impacted your health and well-being – emotionally/physically?
Over the past several years, I’ve experienced some major life changes. I went through a divorce. I bought a home and started a new life. Both of my daughters headed off to college. And about a year and a half ago, at what I thought would be a routine medical visit, a doctor sat down, looked me in the face and said, "It's most likely cancer." Throughout all of these challenges, yoga and meditation have been pivotal to both my emotional and physical well-being. I have found myself many times in tears on my yoga mat, releasing any stress I might be feeling. Both practices train my mind to dwell on healing and stay clear of negative influences.
Has this changed the way you interact with friends/family?
Although not always perfect, I try to practice being present with whoever I come in contact with, placing all of my attention on the interaction with genuine interest.
Can you recommend resources for anyone looking for more info – please list favorite blogs, books, websites, local trainers, videos, etc.
I would suggest looking for a yoga studio near you and trying some classes. Many offer meditation classes as well. I currently belong to Chagrin Yoga located in Chagrin Falls. There are also yoga DVD’s where you can practice in the privacy of your own home. There are free guided meditations on YouTube to listen to as well as meditation apps available. "Calm" is a good one. There are many interesting TED Talks on YouTube to learn more about the benefits of meditation. A nice one to start with is "All it takes is 10 mindful minutes" with Andy Puddicombe. And there’s a meditation group and yoga classes offered here at AG.
What have you learned that would help other associates on their wellness journey?
Life is impermanent and the changes you face can be taxing on your health. Find ways to combat them. Be it yoga, meditation, counseling, exercise, eating healthy or just taking a nap, do what you need to soothe and heal yourself.
What is your #1 piece of advice based on your past experiences?
You become what you think, so don’t dwell on the negative. Find what brings you joy and do it! If it's yoga, meditation, a walk in the park, spending time with friends and family, petting your dog, volunteering...do it! I can proudly say that by living this way, I am now at peace with myself, have found an authentic relationship, can call myself a breast cancer survivor and am living in gratitude for right now.
back to top
How I LiveWell: Mackenzie Glass
What (or who) inspired you to get involved in this activity?
My grandfather was the first person to introduce me to yoga in the early 80’s. He was so patient attempting to teach my sister & I the benefits of breath work and meditation. Especially when dealing with two little girls on a sugar high from baking cookies with our grandma. It wasn’t until my late 20’s that I found yoga again and really began to understand the benefits of the practice beyond the physical.
What does this activity involve (training, competitions, diet, etc.)
Yoga really doesn’t involve much other than a willingness to be present. Of course there are alignments and breath work that make up the physical practice, but I’ve really come to appreciate how each person experiences it differently. Some people practice to relieve stress, others to gain flexibility, etc. Yoga is unique in that each class or practice will leave you feeling differently. It can be a really beautiful, unexpected experience.
What is your favorite part of this activity?
As a student, my favorite part is how I feel after class. I practice for many different reasons but mainly for the mental health benefits. I use my practice to relieve stress, anxiety and depression or simply to find some quiet time to honor myself.
As an instructor, my favorite part is the connection with my students. When students leave my class I notice such a huge change in them. It’s the best feeling to be a part of that transformation.
How do you feel this activity has impacted your health and well-being – emotionally/physically?
Stress reduction!!! I feel like a completely different person when I’m not practicing yoga. It’s so important to my mental well-being and honestly the physical aspects are just a bonus.
Has this changed the way you interact with friends/family?
I am more present in my relationships and I’ve become a better listener. I also love that my family and friends attend my classes. I’m forever grateful for their support.
Do you have any specific or future goals?
I want to be thought of as an instructor who is very accessible and can bring yoga to all. Regardless of gender, age, race, ability, income, etc. yoga is and should be available to everyone. I pride myself in being inclusive, not exclusive.
I would eventually like to earn my 500 hour certification and maybe even open my own studio. Yoga teacher training can be very immersive and introspective but what you can gain from it is immeasurable.
Can you recommend resources for anyone looking for more info – please list favorite blogs, books, websites, local trainers, videos, etc.
I definitely have to give a shout out to my dear friend, Kimberly Urban Payne, of Gathering Tree Yoga. She is the reason I am able to share my yoga practice and has been there for each step of my journey from student to instructor.
Another great friend of mine, Shel Greenberg, teaches weekly punk yoga classes which are a blast and of course a totally different vibe than your typical yoga studio. I've made so many new friends attending her classes!
We are fortunate to have so many amazing studios and teachers in Cleveland. I’d encourage everyone to check them all out!
Some of my favorites on instagram: Dianne Bondy, Jessamyn Stanley, Sri Dharma Mittra, Body Love CLE, Jacquelyn Umof, and Inflexible Yogis to name a few.
Book: The Yamas + Niyamas by Deborah Adele. I consult it almost daily.
What have you learned that would help other associates on their wellness journey?
We all start somewhere so don’t let the fact that you’re a beginner deter you from practicing. It’s called a yoga practice, not a yoga perfect.
What is your #1 piece of advice based on your past experiences?
I’ve stopped and started my practice so many times. I would get so upset with my inconsistency, which would lead me to practice even less. Makes sense right?! I’ve learned yoga will always be available to you so when you’re ready just roll out your mat and breathe.
Do you talk about your experiences in social media? If yes, do you care to share your info so other associates can follow you?
I post about yoga and many other random things @hellosergio on instagram.
I host monthly “yoga parties” at Twist Social Club in Cleveland @twistsocialclub on instagram + facebook.com/twistcle
I am also honored to be teaching at a new studio, Hope Yoga, which is set to open in December 2018 @hopeyogastudio on instagram / hopeyoga.com
back to top
How I LiveWell: FSO Biggest Loser Competition Participants
This year’s Wellness Champions, Gary Kopechek, Group Vice President, and Carol Miller, Vice President – Corporate Innovation, are hoping to inspire you with stories from associates who have taken steps in their own lives to LiveWell. Be on the lookout as we highlight amazing associates who exemplify the foundations of our wellness program (physical, emotional, and financial wellness) in their lives as part of a special series of profiles on imAGine called “How I Live Well”.
This profile features members of Field Sales Operations (FSO) who participated in a Biggest Loser competition last fall. As a group they lost over 30 lbs, gained a lot of camaraderie and found out that working together as a team to LifeWell was key to their success. The following associates participated in the challenge:
- Tom Comer - Senior Vice President Sales
- Teresa Grzybowski - Operation and Engagement Manager
- Josh Kester - Learning & Engagement Manager
- Linda Kling - FSO Project Manager
- Mark Polster - Executive Director FSO & Supply Chain
- Kirk Varrelmann - Regional Manager FSO
- Marie Wood - Learning & Engagement Manager
- Magan Yane - Learning & Engagement Manager
What (or who) inspired you to get involved in this activity?
Our teammates! We have done a couple of weight loss challenges in the past, and were feeling like it was time for another!
What does this activity involve (training, competitions, diet, etc.)
Everyone was on their own for their workouts and diets, but we did weekly weigh in sessions which helped keep us on track and stay motivated. We have some pretty competitive people on the team so seeing everyone’s numbers each week really pushed us to do better!
What is your favorite part of this activity?
Weigh in’s on Friday’s really helped us to stay motivated and competitive. Each week we would also recognize everyone’s accomplishments and celebrate milestones along the way. It was also awesome to start seeing some results! You could tell who was really working hard by seeing how loose clothes were fitting!
We also did a team workout at Orangetheory which was awesome! It kicked our butts and set the tone going into the final week of the challenge!
back to top
How I LiveWell: Joseph Hrinda
Our next profile features Joseph Hrinda, Fulfillment Analyst II in Creative Products, who has been working on a healthier lifestyle, focusing on food and disipline.
What (or who) inspired you to get involved in this activity?
The truth is… I’ve dealt with yo-yoing weight for years, struggling to maintain my own balance between life and wellness. It started when I was school-age, resurfaced in my mid-twenties and later in my early thirties. I was up to 300 lbs., and then down to 200, then back up again. In my current bout, I’ve lost over 90 pounds, dropping from 287 to 195 within this past year. This time around, the most important change I made wasn’t about exercise. It was about food. I realized my nemesis was food and it was time to address it. I had to rethink when and how much I consumed each day. In summer of 2018, I decided my 3rd weight loss plan iteration would be my last.
What does this activity involve (training, competitions, diet, etc.)
I needed to make a realistic, but simple change. It all came down to food and rigid discipline with an emphasis on meals and portion control. I began reducing my daily caloric intake from 2500 calories in the first month to 1000 calories in recent months. It was a challenge, but I had to hold myself accountable. The kicker is...I haven’t engaged in any rigorous exercise plans. I lost weight and feel better by prioritizing meals to fit my lifestyle. I eliminated a great deal of unhealthy, processed foods like bread, prepared foods, snacks, condiments and beverages. I still enjoy cookies or a donut or two every week, but I do so without over consuming what I call “risky foods.” My success has been in moderation… I started by eating from smaller plates and bowls, eliminating second helpings, and now consume between 1500 and 2000 calories per day. 80%-90% of my daily diet involves simple foods: meat, vegetables and fruit.
What is your favorite part of this activity?
The results. Weight loss wasn’t and still isn’t my primary goal. My objective was to adapt my food choices to my lifestyle. I am a foodie and forever will be. I could never forego the delicacies, but now I’m able to limit them.
How do you feel this activity has impacted your health and well-being – emotionally/physically?
It proves I’m capable of living well. I’m finally convinced I understand what foods are optimal for my health. I can now look past those foods I once regarded as staples and feel great at the same time.
Has this changed the way you interact with friends/family?
Absolutely...friends and family were the first to notice something was different. The first time I reached for a salad plate instead of dinner plate to serve myself spaghetti...they knew something was up. I told them how I was going to manage my weight through portions and choices. At first, they laughed and I did too, but repeatedly reaching for the small plates, skipping second helpings, and stopping the snacking (Ugh!!!! Oh, the agony), became routine. Now, my friends and family are asking me for guidance and following my lead. It feels great to inspire others to live well too!
Do you have any specific or future goals?
I’m not satisfied even though I’ve celebrated some success. I realize success is measured over a lifetime. In order to live well, I must prioritize my new lifestyle to yield even better results in 2019. My new objective is to maintain and surpass my previous short comings for the remainder of my life. I’ve been developing a monthly exercise plan to factor into my new lifestyle beginning in January 2019. It will require 3 to 5 minutes a day, but a lifetime commitment.
Can you recommend resources for anyone looking for more info – please list favorite blogs, books, websites, local trainers, videos, etc.
I’ve tried to identify resources to help me adopt a healthier life style, but I could never find the perfect one. I’m too unique and so are you. In my 3rd bout, I said forget it… I need to focus on my needs, my day-to-day activities and what I could do within my limits to live well.
What have you learned that would help other associates on their wellness journey?
Your only competition is you. I used to celebrate every pound I lost and ignored every pound I gained. Now, I celebrate every pound I don’t gain and ignore every pound I lose. In my journey, it’s about maintenance. I want a more comfortable way of living, free of the pressure I used to put on myself.
What is your #1 piece of advice based on your past experiences?
Face the challenge and find the most practical, accountable way for you to live well – even if it only works for you!
Do you talk about your experiences in social media? If yes, do you care to share your info so other associates can follow you?
No, but associates can reach out to me if they want to know more about my success.
back to top
How I LiveWell: Chelsea Patton
Our next profile features Chelsea Patton, Associate Editor, who practices lyra (aerial hoop).
What (or who) inspired you to get involved in this activity?
A friend of mine posted online that she’d found a Groupon for 5 aerial dance classes at Be Studios, did anyone want to go with her? I saw her post and had always thought that sounded fun, so I went! She stopped going after those 5, I signed up for a membership and have been going ever since.
What does this activity involve (training, competitions, diet, etc.)
I take a lyra (aerial hoop) class once a week and I attend an open practice session, as well, to work on what I learned in class. There are competitions you can attend through the studio, as well as other workshops and showcases they offer throughout the year.
I try to stay active overall, and since lyra requires a lot of arm strength, I have been working on that since starting, as well.
What is your favorite part of this activity?
Flipping, hanging upside down, those moments when I finally master a move I’ve been struggling with for a few weeks… it’s really empowering.
How do you feel this activity has impacted your health and well-being – emotionally/physically?
No matter what my day has been like, I go to lyra and I feel a million times better almost immediately. I always sort of hated going to the gym and for the first time ever, really, I have found a sport that I really love. It’s cool to see how you progress and has given me a lot of confidence. I feel stronger than I’ve ever felt before. I feel pretty cool, too!
Has this changed the way you interact with friends/family?
Like I said, I think I have gained a lot of confidence from this which has made me a bit more outgoing and less reserved. I am excited to share my progress and milestones with friends and family, and I think they’re excited to talk about something they’re unfamiliar with. I’m trying to get people to come to class with me, but so far no takers!
Do you have any specific or future goals?
I want to keep doing better and getting stronger at this, and I hope in the future to take other aerial arts classes at the studio. They offer aerial silks, pole fitness, and other dance classes, as well. I was never a huge fan of dance but the acrobatic aspect of these sports really appeals to me! I really did want to be a circus performer when I was a kid… so, it makes sense!
Can you recommend resources for anyone looking for more info – please list favorite blogs, books, websites, local trainers, videos, etc.
Check out my studio’s website, https://www.lovebestudios.com/. Check out videos of lyra online by looking for aerial hoop or lyra on YouTube.
What have you learned that would help other associates on their wellness journey?
Find something that you love! You’ll never stick with anything if you hate what you’re doing.
What is your #1 piece of advice based on your past experiences?
You might think you can’t do something, but you should still try. Because you’ll probably find out that actually, you can.
Do you talk about your experiences in social media? If yes, do you care to share your info so other associates can follow you?
Sure! @chelseakpatton on Instagram.
back to top
How I LiveWell: Meg Wilson
Our next profile features Meg Wilson, Associate Product Designer, who practices meditation.
What (or who) inspired you to get involved in this activity?
I’ve always been captivated by the mind’s ability. When I was in high school, I remember watching a documentary on Buddhist monks who could raise their body temperature through meditation. How awesome would it be to be able to do that? Sweet party trick.
In all seriousness though, I had come into a particularly stressful period in my life a few years ago. It was mostly all “good” stress – new job, soon to be married, new challenges, etc. However, I was also diagnosed with GAD (generalized anxiety disorder) around this time, and I was left looking for healthy, natural outlets for my often-overwhelming feelings and emotions. I think that in an attempt to gain control – or accept that I didn’t need to have control – I started taking interest in meditation. I’ve been practicing for about 3 years now.
What does this activity involve (training, competitions, diet, etc.)
The best thing about meditation is that it doesn’t require anything. No prior training or experience, no diet limitations, no expensive accessories… nothing. Just you and your breath. Simplicity at it’s finest!
What is your favorite part of this activity?
During a really good session, or on a really good day… you can slip your reality. I know that sounds ridiculous, but I’ve talked to other people who experience it. You kind of get lost in space and time… And your brain puts you at home on the couch with your dog, or in your bed. You start to feel as though you’re really there. It’s wild. The brain is a powerful tool.
How do you feel this activity has impacted your health and well-being – emotionally/physically?
Meditation has - without question – improved my quality of life. Emotionally, I find myself better able to assess my feelings. I feel clear headed. Instead of allowing my anxiety to completely devour me (which, as anyone who battles the beast knows - it LOVES to do) I can take a step back and analyze the situation at hand.
Physically, it helps me re-calibrate. The nice thing about the AG lunch time sessions is that if there’s anything making my pulse quicken a bit – I attend meditation, and by the time I walk out of there, I’m more relaxed 100% of the time. It’s also a great way to get to sleep if you’re struggling at night!
Has this changed the way you interact with friends/family?
Absolutely. I feel that since incorporating meditation into my life, I’m more apt to give a response, versus a reaction. I remind myself to be present much more when listening to a friend or loved one talk, when walking through the woods, or when enjoying my favorite food or beverage. I notice things more. Meditation helps me to remember and appreciate what really matters.
Do you have any specific or future goals?
I try to be consistent with meditating twice a week here at AG, when my schedule allows me to escape to the Wednesday sessions. I think my goal is definitely to be a daily meditator – to really carve out a devoted time and place to take pause. I’d love to become a yoga instructor, but I struggle with consistent attendance, haha! Other goals include becoming a mountain woman with a herd of goats on a hillside, maybe a moonshiner. Am I getting off topic?
Can you recommend resources for anyone looking for more info – please list favorite blogs, books, websites, local trainers, videos, etc.
Well first off, I highly recommend anyone interested in meditation come sit in for a Monday or Wednesday session right here at AG! We’re a very friendly, welcoming group, and there’s no pressure! You don’t even have to tell us your name! Just walk on in, sit down, and relax. It’s a wonderful resource for introverts and extroverts alike. (Editor’s note: AG Meditation sessions are held on Mondays and Wednesdays from 12:10 – 12:30 p.m. in the Father’s Day Conference Room 4W-102)
Happify.com is a great resource. On YouTube, I suggest checking out Headspace, TheHonestGuys, and The Mindful Movement. Randomly searching for guided meditations on YouTube can also help guide you into the rabbit hole of possibilities and different styles if the aforementioned aren’t exactly your cup of matcha. Meditainment.com is a wonderful free and subscription based website, where the meditations are voiced by a British woman with a honey smooth voice.
What have you learned that would help other associates on their wellness journey?
You have to make yourself a priority. We so easily forget to check in with ourselves. When was the last time you asked yourself how you were feeling mentally or physically? Are you overwhelmed? Stressed? Hungry? Hydrated? We’re inundated with “too much all the time”. It’s a very hyper saturated world we live in. You simply must be kind to yourself. You’re only human. Allow yourself to be just that.
What is your #1 piece of advice based on your past experiences?
Tomorrow is never guaranteed. All we have is right now, this very moment. Given that fact, it’s so important to try and live mindfully. Tell people you love them. Laugh, cry. Feel everything. Watch the sunsets, eat the dessert. Be unapologetically you. There’s no time for anything else.
Do you talk about your experiences in social media? If yes, do you care to share your info so other associates can follow you?
I like to share glimpses of life moments through my social media accounts. Nature, clouds, critters, flowers from my garden, food I’ve made or bread I’ve baked (I’m a huge foodie), snapshots from adventures, glasses of beer and bourbon, motorcycle rides, and about 9 billion pictures of my rescued terrier, Bean. If this interests you, by all means, let’s be friends! Find me on Facebook under Meg Wilson Knoble, or on Instagram @macabremeg.
back to top
How I LiveWell: Jamenda Whitehead
Our first profile features Jamenda Whitehead, a Replenishment Analyst in Point of Sale Replenishment (POSR), who is a National Physique Committee (NPC) Figure Competitor.
What (or who) inspired you to get involved in this activity?
I started working out with one of the police officers at my previous job, and he introduced me to the sport. I wasn’t able to compete at that time, but a few years later I was introduced to my current coach and I’ve been working with him ever since.
What does this activity involve (training, competitions, diet, etc.)
In bodybuilding you have two seasons and based on the competitor and show date, this can be a period of weeks or months. In the off season, you are working to build muscles and preparing yourself for the upcoming prep season. When prep season starts you are getting ready for a show and really trying to focus on conditioning and shaping your muscles before hitting the stage. Competitions run all throughout the year you can choose a show based on your fitness level. Off season you are usually growing so the eating plan may be more flexible, but once you are prepping the diet gets pretty monotonous.
What is your favorite part of this activity?
Seeing how the body changes over time. Every time I do it, I’m shocked at how small changes and consistency add up to big changes I can see in my body.
How do you feel this activity has impacted your health and well-being – emotionally/physically?
Every competition prep is a new experience. It’s the same routine i.e. exercise, diet, cardio, but you begin to learn what does and doesn’t work for you, and new ways maintain a healthy lifestyle after a show. Bodybuilding is such a mental sport and it really shows you the amount of self-discipline you can have once your focus your efforts.
Has this changed the way you interact with friends/family?
I have very supportive friends and family. They understand when I am prepping for shows there are certain things I’m unable to eat and they make sure I stay on track and encourage me during prep and on show day. However, prepping requires you to spend more time in the gym which doesn’t leave much time for a ton of social events.
Do you have any specific or future goals?
Right now I am going into off season and I plan to begin prep for another show at the start of 2019.
Can you recommend resources for anyone looking for more info – please list favorite blogs, books, websites, local trainers, videos, etc.
Bodybuilding.com has a ton of resources for those looking to get into the sport, or just general healthy life styles living tips. I typically follow trainers or competitors in the realm of body building. Fit Works Has a really good competition prep coach named Mike Anderson. He’s an International Federation of Bodybuilding and Fitness (IFBB)Pro and has competed at the highest levels of the sport.
What have you learned that would help other associates on their wellness journey?
Make the time. There are so many things going on in our lives, that it’s very easy to put our health on the back burner. Exercising is something you have to make the time for. Schedule it into your day, set reminders, get an accountability partner, but find a way to make it a habit. I also believe you have to find what works best for you when it comes to eating right and exercising. There are so many diets, workouts, classes, equipment, but you have to find the regimen that fits you and your lifestyle.
What is your #1 piece of advice based on your past experiences?
Living a healthy lifestyle is a mind-set. Once you decide you want to do it, the next step is getting your mind focused to put in the work and make it happen.
Do you talk about your experiences in social media? If yes, do you care to share your info so other associates can follow you?
Anything fitness or body building related I post to my Instagram account @lilbitsfit.
back to top
