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Ask anyone to name the most iconic Philadelphians and Questlove is near the top of the list.
Many know him as the drummer for The Roots, house band of The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon; as cofounder of digital music and media platforms Okayplayer and OkayAfrica; as an author and music journalist; and as a plant-based cheesesteak maker.
With a resume like that, it only makes sense for him to appear on a full episode of Love + Grit, VISIT PHILADELPHIA’s podcast that tells authentic and diverse stories about the people who make Philly Philly.
So, essentially, what I'm doing is, I'm tricking my body into thinking I'm exercising.
The pandemic hit Questlove just like anyone else, leaving him to figure out how to keep his staff employed and continue earning money while live performances were halted, all while being confined at home with his girlfriend. Sound familiar?
Among the many pivots he’s made over the years — getting into music at age 10, foregoing Julliard for a record deal at 20 and making space in his 30s to focus on projects outside The Roots — Questlove talked to our Love + Grit hosts about another journey he’s on: weight loss.
Hear Questlove talk about a year of transformation when the episode drops Thursday, July 1 on all major podcast platforms, and get a sneak peek of the interview below.
”At the top of the pandemic in February, I was 412 pounds. I’m 301 now. And I’m going for 220,” he said of his ongoing transformation. Years of touring, filling up on Philly foods and relying on unhealthy options in food deserts contributed to his unhealthy lifestyle, and a nutrition coach helped him make changes.
Tune into Love + Grit Season 2, Episode 11 starting July 1 to hear about Questlove’s weight loss approach (hint: there’s lots of heavy breathing), how he’s “tricking” his body into thinking he’s exercising and the “darkest period” that sparked his commitment to change. Plus: What directing movies is like, where to find fish cheesesteaks and impromptu drives home to Philly.
Download Love + Grit on your favorite podcast player to hear talented musicians, lauded chefs and unparalleled community leaders join hosts Laiya, Rachel and Justin to discuss how their Philly connections have shaped their lives and careers. New episodes drop every other week.
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