Luckily that wasn't the case with Scott "Epic" Knisley of Epic Life Fitness, 118 N. Jefferson St., who is this week's Daytonian of the Week.
>> Read all about our other Daytonians of the Week
The actor, radio personality, podcaster and business owner has tons to say about life here in the Gem City.
He was nominated for Daytonian of the Week by fellow podcaster Mark DaGrossa.
>> Know Your Neighbors: Santa Claus, or Mark DaGrossa?
Q: What do you do?
A: First and foremost I'm a father and a husband. My main gig is being the owner of and head trainer at Epic Life Fitness in Downtown Dayton. I have also spent the past 14 years in the radio industry working for several Dayton area stations, including 103.9 The X, KISS-FM, and WHIO Radio. I currently host an evening radio show on G101.3 FM in Richmond, Ind.
I'm a co-host for The Gem City Podcast alongside (Dayton.com blogger) Libby Ballengee, Mark DaGrossa and Terry "Izzy Rock" Martin. I've also been fortunate enough to follow my love of acting on stage at several Dayton area community theaters and with a few small film roles.
>> Know Your Neighbors: Meet the folks behind the Gem City Podcast
>> Keep up with the local music scene with Libby Ballengee, Dayton.com’s Dayton Music Insider
Q: What’s one word you think people would use to describe you?
A: I guess that would depend on who you talk to. Overall I hope people see me as a positive person. The world can be a negative place, so I try to stay upbeat for myself and those around me.
Q: Where does the “Epic” thing come from?
A: It's a radio name.
Q: But how did you get it? Did you pull it out of a hat or is there a backstory?
A: Not much. My Program Director and I came up with it. We just thought it sounded cool!
Q: What do you love about life in Dayton?
A: The people and the sense of community stand out to me. There are so many people working together to make the city great. We all want to see each other do well, for the individual and the community as a whole, so there is a lot of camaraderie. There is also so much to do and see! We are lucky to have a beautiful parks system, an awesome arts scene, some top notch breweries and restaurants, and a great music scene. There is really something for everyone.
Q: Where do you go for a great time?
A: Working out at Epic Life Fitness, of course. I also really enjoy going to a Dragon's game, throwing Disc Golf at one of our area courses and hanging out with friends in and around downtown.
>> Five reasons to get into the Dayton disc golf scene this summer
Q: How did you get involved with your business?
A: I started getting more serious about my health when my son was born in 2009. I lost about 45 pounds and felt awesome, so I decided it would be a great way to help others. I opened Epic Life Fitness in 2015 with the help of my good friend Michael Boyd and we've been helping people get healthier ever since.
Q: What messages do you want to spread about fitness and health?
A: I think one of the biggest misconceptions about health and fitness is that if you don't look like a cover model, you're somehow doing it wrong or wasting your time. In my own life, I work out and try to eat well for my well being, not my vanity. I want to have a good quality of life for as long as possible. Just an hour a day of activity, whether it be taking a hike, strength training or anything in between, is so beneficial to your health. Not only will you feel stronger and more energetic, but you will also help protect yourself from chronic diseases and the effects of aging. You can also help undo some of the negative effects of living somewhere with such a great craft beer scene!
Q: What do you think Dayton will look like in 10-15 years?
A: I think the city will continue to grow and thrive for years to come. It's a really exciting time to be in the DYT.
About the Author
