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Terry Crews: Food, Family, and Growth

May 14, 2025

Terry Crews' Last Meal Interview

Introduction

  • Host: Josh from Mythical Kitchen
  • Guest: Terry Crews
    • Actor, author, former NFL linebacker
    • Known from "The Killer Game" and "America's Got Talent"
    • Also a furniture designer, painter, and former courtroom sketch artist

Terry's Philosophy

  • Believes in doing what he loves
  • Grew up in Flint, Michigan - factory work or pursuing passions

Last Meal Choices

  • Struggled to choose one last meal; wanted a "cornucopia"

Course 1: "Noou Special"

  • Creamy rock shrimp, spicy tuna on crispy rice, miso black cod, simple salad
  • Significant memory: first fancy meal in New York after success in "White Chicks"

Childhood and Food

  • Grew up in a strict church environment with food as a major indulgence
  • Positive childhood memories tied to family and food, like meals after church

Struggle with Identity

  • Conflict between being an artist and athlete
  • Fearful childhood due to religious teachings about the end times

Course 2: Midwest Barbecue

  • Baby back ribs, pickled veg, cornbread muffin, BBQ baked beans, collard greens
  • Memories of Cedar Point trips with family

Dealing with Fear and Powerlessness

  • Terry’s father was abusive
  • Working out started as preparation to protect his family
  • Gained insight into the impact of childhood experiences through therapy

Course 3: Health and Fitness

  • Grilled bison ribeye, grilled broccolini, baked sweet potato, smoothies
  • Fitness became a lifestyle after NFL career
  • Struggled with weight gain after retiring

Overcoming Personal Challenges

  • Worked out for health and to reconnect with himself post-NFL

Course 4: Global Influence

  • Zucchini flan, gaspacho, crispy smashed potatoes, peri peri chicken
  • Experiences from traveling, e.g., South Africa and Italy

Defining Power

  • True power comes from internal choices
  • Example of using personal accountability in making respectful choices

Course 5: Pizza and Family

  • Caesar salad, frittata, garlic bread
  • Pizza as a childhood favorite, symbol of family moments

Family and Forgiveness

  • Rebuilt relationships with parents through therapy
  • Forgiveness as a form of personal liberation

Course 6: Cheeseburger and Shake

  • Double cheeseburger, fries, strawberry shake
  • Childhood indulgence and momentary escapes

Reflections on Death and Life

  • Experience of getting knocked out in NFL
  • Peaceful feeling associated with being knocked out
  • Believes in using one's brain to keep it active post-athletics

Final Thoughts

  • Emphasis on making courageous choices
  • Reflections on family, career, and personal growth

Conclusion

  • Terry Crews' thoughts on happiness and life achievements
  • Encouragement from host and a note on Terry's ongoing projects

Key Takeaways

  • Terry Crews’ journey involves overcoming childhood fears and embracing multiple talents.
  • Food serves as a powerful connector to memories, emotions, and personal growth.
  • Personal accountability and internal power are central to Terry’s approach to life and challenges.
  • Family and forgiveness play crucial roles in his life’s narrative.
  • Terry’s reflections provide deep insights into managing personal relationships, fears, and career transitions.