In this engaging episode of Sports & Forks, host Kelly Senyei sits down with legendary big wave surfer and fitness enthusiast, Laird Hamilton.

Laird is renowned not only for his incredible surfing achievements but also for his dedication to health and wellness. Growing up in Hawaii, Laird has always been immersed in diverse cultures and foods, shaping his approach to nutrition and fitness. His adventurous spirit extends to his business acumen, as he co-founded Laird Superfood with his wife, former professional beach volleyball player Gabby Reece, in 2015.

Throughout the episode, Laird shares insights into his dietary habits and how they've evolved over the years. He discusses his love for high-fat diets, emphasizing the importance of consuming whole, clean foods and the significance of diet diversity. Laird also talks about the philosophy behind Laird Superfood, highlighting the development of plant-based, vegan superfoods designed to enhance existing dietary habits rather than complicate them.

The conversation touches on how the pandemic influenced people's consciousness towards health and wellness, attributing a rise in Laird Superfood's success to this newfound awareness. To wrap up, Laird participates in the Sports & Forks Quick Fire Challenge, sharing his favorite foods, workout, and surprising life motto.

Timestamped Overview:

00:00 Balancing Taste and Health in Diet

03:13 Exploration and Philosophical Eating

08:55 Energizing Morning Drink Routine

11:53 Lost Taste for Sugary Foods

15:47 Sports Nutrition Evolution

17:56 Awakening to Health and Nutrition

21:37 Enhancing Diets with Laird Superfood

25:11 "Embrace Novelty and Self-Experimentation"

26:57 Innovative Instant Beverage Line

28:44 Laird Hamilton tackles Sports & Forks Quick-Fire Challenge

In this episode of Sports & Forks, host Kelly Senyei welcomes Ali Riley, professional soccer player and captain of Angel City FC. Ali shares insights into her dynamic life, which beautifully intersects sports and culinary arts. Known for her career in women's soccer, Ali discusses the challenges that arise from the significant pay disparities compared to men's soccer.

She highlights, based on a 2023 study, that the average salary for female soccer players globally is less than $10,000, underscoring the ongoing struggle for equality in the sport.

The episode also delves into Ali's personal life, revealing her profound resilience during tumultuous times, such as the loss of her parents' home in the California fires while also navigating a major life event—her wedding. Ali opens up about her experiences with IVF, giving listeners a glimpse into her journey of hope and determination.

In addition to her athletic achievements, Ali is a co-author of Girls Gone Veg, a cookbook that reflects her passion for plant-based cooking alongside her friend and fellow professional soccer player, Toni Pressley. Ali identifies as a flexitarian, favoring plant-based meals while being flexible with her diet. Together, Kelly and Ali discuss the intersections of diet and sports performance, plus what they’re keen to team up on baking together in the Sports & Forks kitchen!

Timestamped Overview

00:00 Intro

01:58 Surreal Wedding Amidst Palisades Files

06:19 Supporting Women's Reproductive Community

12:19 Progress in Women's Soccer Equality

13:17 Hope in Women's Soccer Progress

17:21 Pre-Game Meal Choices

20:33 Whole Foods Over Protein Shakes

24:49 Bubble Friendship During Lockdown

26:44 Beyond the Field: New Possibilities

30:43 Distance, Dreams, and Opportunities

35:29 Missing Home-Cooked Seafood

37:13 Ali Riley on the Sports & Forks Quick-Fire Challenge!

In this episode of Sports & Forks, host Kelly Senyei is joined by baseball star Alex Bregman, fresh from signing with the Boston Red Sox. Known for his dynamic presence both on and off the field, Alex spent nine years with the Houston Astros, where he cultivated a deep bond with the team, staff and fans. Beyond the baseball diamond, Alex and his wife Reagan are co-founders of Wild Sol salsa, where they creatively blend flavors inspired by his upbringing in New Mexico and his love of Tex-Mex cuisine from Houston.

The episode covers Alex's career move from the Houston Astros to the Boston Red Sox and his experiences in the new team environment, emphasizing the blend of veteran presence and young talent. A notable part of the conversation dives into Alex’s journey with Wild Sol salsa, a venture that captures his passion for food. Kelly and Alex discuss the unique attributes of the salsa, including its distinctive ingredient, Flecha Azul Tequila (founded by Alex’s close friend, Mark Wahlberg), and how it sets their product apart in the competitive consumer goods market. Get ready to sit back and snack on this fun, fast-paced interview about Alex’s career and culinary transitions!

Timestamped Overview

00:00 Intro

05:53 Tequila-Infused Salsa Creation

09:44 "Perfecting Product: A Collaborative Journey"

12:37 Creative Salsa Uses in Cooking

15:00 Diet and Routine Optimization

17:21 Pride in Children's Achievements

20:46 Creamy Super Hot Taco Sauce

22:35 Alex Bregman on the Sports & Forks Quick-Fire Challenge!