I’m always connecting with other Tall brethren since creating this blog, I like being able to connect with other guys like me and hear their stories. So when I came across Mike on Instagram I immediately admired his Air Jordan Collection, and I’m a lover of all things Air Jordan and Nike. We are also the same height, so I reached out to him to see if he would be interested in being interviewed, he agreed, and I now present you The TaLL TaLLK for the month of May!
Name: Mike Allan
Age: 30
Height: 6’10”
Location: Paris
Marital Status: Single
Occupation: Personal trainer
Who is Mike?
I am a guy from the Paris suburbs.
Former professional basketball player, I am now a physical and mental trainer for both individuals and professionals
I like to help, motivate, and give my positive spirit in order to push people out of their comfort zone.
I seize every opportunity that crosses my way to learn and improve so that I am able to share with others.
People would describe me as a risk-taker as I do anything that crosses through my head as if nothing was impossible.
When did you take notice of your height or that you were tall?
I noticed that I was tall through looking at my class photos. When I was 7-8 years old and I was already the height of my teacher.
How did your height make you different?
I don’t think my height has made me different, however, I rarely go unnoticed. I always try to keep a positive outlook on things as I love life too much and therefore, I must enjoy it. But I don’t think that being short or tall changes anything.
How often do you get asked questions about your height?
Oh wow as soon as step outside the front door.
Everywhere and at all times, even in the toilet !!!!
Did your height/size impact your life differently over the years?
When I was young, I had a hard time accepting my size, kids can be mean.
But when I started playing basketball, it was then that I realized that my size could be useful and I gradually regained my self-confidence.
I accepted that this was God’s plan and there was nothing that I could do to change it.
From that moment on, my height allowed me not to worry about the gaze of others.
Therefore I would say that my size has made me stronger and allowed me to realize that there are more important things in life than pleasing everyone.
The most important thing is to accept yourself for who you are.
Once I understood this, dealing with others was much easier.
What are some of your biggest challenges when it comes to shopping?
Finding a t-shirt and sweatshirt that is long but not wide.
Tops with bright colors and not just dark colors.
In France, it’s very difficult to find clothes so I ended up customizing the majority of clothes.
How would you describe your style?
I think I have a laid back, casual style. I can adapt but however, I am always more comfortable in my Jordan’s.
What are some brands that you always wear?
2TALL , Cub jean et Asos
What are your top 3 must-haves as a tall guy?
- Slim jean with the good size
- A nice pair of sneakers
- A suit
Has basketball always been a part of your life?
Basketball has always been part of my life, it has allowed me to gain self-confidence and see the primary purpose of being tall. Basketball has educated me, taught me discipline, and what it takes to surpass oneself. Even today, despite my knees feeling old, I would never say no to a 1 to 1.
How long have you been coaching?
I have been coaching for 3 years
What is the most important lesson you teach to your players?
I teach them not to be satisfied with little and to always go further. I believe that it is not enough to say that you want to be the best, you have to put in the work to receive the rewards. Younger generations tend to only be interested at the tip of the iceberg.
What is the number one workout tip you want your clients to keep in mind?
I always tell them to be the best version of themselves and to take nothing for granted.
One thing I noticed right away when I came across your IG is your love of Jordan’s! How many pairs do you own?
Ah yes! I have 45 pairs of Jordans. Can you imagine the space that they take up in my apartment?
What size do you wear? Do you find it hard to find your size?
I wear a size 16.
Nowadays; yes and no, there’s still little choice especially in luxury brands.
But I shouldn’t complain because before I could only find socks and flip flops in my size.
What’s something you want to do within the next year that you’ve never done?
Bungee jumping and visiting Japan
What’s your absolute dream job?
I would love to open my own store with unique sneakers and designer clothes for adults and be able to provide a wide range of styles.
What’s the greatest challenge you’ve overcome?
After sustaining a big injury I had to stop playing professional basketball for a while, the transition was very challenging for me but I had to find my way. It was then that I decided to resume my studies in order to further myself at the professional level.
Name three songs you have in constant rotation now, and why?
Terms of Mr. Rebel: always gets me in a good mood. Her voice and the rhythm allow me to escape reality for a while.
Trop peu de temps by Nuttea which always lets me relive my youth, brings back good memories and reminds my first love.
Lil Durk: Home Body. I will avoid saying why! lol!
If you weren’t coaching and personal training what would you be doing?
I think I would be a choir/gospel singer, apparently, I have a good voice
What are some of the best relationship tips ever given to you?
-Always take care of the people we love, as we don’t know what tomorrow will bring.
-Avoid arguing over trivialities because there are more important things in life.
-Moreover, the importance of communication in order to move forward together in a healthy relationship.
-Forgive but don’t forget
Do you think that love at first exists? Has it ever happened to you before?
Oh yes, I think that in order to know what true love really is, you have to learn to love yourself first and take the necessary risks. And yes it happened to me!
Speed Round:
- What was your first job?
- Basketball Player
- Who’s your celebrity crush?
- Alicia Keys
- What age do you wish you could permanently be?
- I would love to be 24.
- What TV show are you currently watching?
- NBA TV
- What is the most annoying question that people ask you?
- Is it cold up there
- What’s your favorite food?
- Bookit (guadeloupe specialty)
7. What your favorite item you’ve bought this year?
- Jordan Fearless maison rouge
- What kind of music do you listen to most?
- Zouk
- What movie title best describes your life?
- Men of Honor featuring Cuba Gooding
10. Who’s someone you really admire?
- My mom and my brother Ludovic
Where can the readers find you?
Instagram: @longbonhomme, Tik Tok, and now on your website rahmosley.com.
What’s next for you? I want to give the world to my daughter!
