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.