PJ Braun holds nothing back in discussing his emotional transformation after years in prison – and how he’s learned to deal with anger and forgiveness
The fifth and final episode of A Conversation With PJ Braun, hosted by Vlad Yudin, concludes a captivating series that explores the life, challenges, and reflections of PJ Braun, former owner of Blackstone Labs. In this episode, PJ Braun discusses his future plans, his views on the current state of bodybuilding, and wether or not he can forgive Aaron Singerman after their entire ordeal. With candid insights, PJ opens up about the financial and emotional toll of his ordeal, his hopes for the future, and the lessons he’s learned along the way.
Financial Losses and Emotional Resilience
Vlad Yudin begins by asking PJ Braun if he was able to save any of his assets through the trial and prison ordeal. PJ shares the harsh reality that he lost nearly everything. His cars, bank accounts, and even his house were taken by the government, which claimed his home was purchased with laundered funds.
Despite fighting hard throughout the trial, PJ ultimately sold his house, with the proceeds going into an escrow account. However, since he lost the trial, all the money went to the government, leaving him with nothing.
Yet, amid these losses, PJ emphasizes the one thing he didn’t lose—his fiancé. Unlike many people whose partners leave them during prison, PJ’s fiancé stood by him, providing a source of strength and loyalty throughout his ordeal.
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What’s Next for PJ Braun?
Vlad then asks about PJ Braun’s plans now that he’s free. PJ reveals that he is exploring alternative options since his hope of returning to Blackstone Labs might not materialize. If he’s eventually allowed to work in the supplement space, he will pursue that path. In the short term, he plans to restart his podcast and focus on living in the moment. One of his immediate personal goals is to finally marry his fiancé later this year.
Beyond his career and personal life, PJ Braun is thrilled to return to the bodybuilding lifestyle, which he couldn’t fully commit to while in prison. He’s regained muscle mass and is training with the vigor of his younger years, which excites him. Having spent years doing menial work in prison, like mopping bathrooms and cleaning toilets, PJ is unafraid of starting from the ground up again to find success.
Predictions for Olympia 2024
When asked about his predictions for Olympia 2024, PJ Braun is surprised that some people aren’t picking Derek Lunsford to repeat his win. PJ believes Derek is immensely talented and could win again, though he also sees Hadi Choopan and Samson Dauda as strong contenders.
PJ predicts Nick Walker will finish in the top five, though he’s unsure if Nick can take the top spot this year specifically. He’s also eager to see what Neckzilla can achieve in future pro competitions, noting that the current bodybuilding landscape has more parity than in past eras, where champions like Phil Heath dominated for multiple years.
Considering a Coaching Career
Vlad Yudin inquires whether PJ Braun might consider becoming a trainer or guru for athletes if he can’t return to the supplement industry. PJ acknowledges that it’s a possibility, but he hasn’t seriously considered it yet.
Vlad notes that PJ’s prison time might put him under scrutiny if he pursued coaching. PJ jokingly suggests that he could instead teach others how to avoid the mistakes he made that led to prison.
Reactions from the Industry After Prison
Vlad Yudin asks about the reaction PJ Braun has received from people in the industry since his release. PJ is relieved that no one has said anything negative to him directly. Interestingly, he’s also been contacted by others who have been through prison, offering advice and support.
However, PJ notes that many people disappeared during his imprisonment, revealing who his true friends are. The experience has left him with a smaller, but closer, circle of friends—those who stood by him, visited him, and even put money on his books.
Mending Fences with Aaron Singerman
Finally, Vlad asks whether PJ Braun and Aaron Singerman might ever have a one-on-one conversation again. PJ believes it’s possible, though he doesn’t harbor any hatred toward Aaron.
PJ Braun reflects on how angry he was at Aaron, which he now realizes was a result of how much he cared for him before their fallout. PJ has let go of his anger and wishes Aaron the best, though he’s unsure if they’ll ever be friends again. A key lesson PJ learned in prison is that holding onto anger is unproductive and only brings negativity, so he’s made peace with the past.
Ultimately, PJ Braun asserts that he wishes nothing but the best for Aaron Singerman. He’s aware that their past may make it impossible to forge a new friendship after their probation period is over – but PJ is also hopeful that he can move forward in his life with forgiveness rather than harboring hatred. If that leads to an eventual reconnection with Aaron Singerman – he would welcome it.
Wrap Up
The final episode of A Conversation With PJ Braun brings a poignant end to the series, offering deep insights into PJ Braun’s personal growth, reflections on his legal battles, and the challenges of rebuilding his life after prison. From losing nearly all his assets to finding solace in the unwavering support of his fiancé, PJ’s journey is one of resilience and determination. As he looks to the future, PJ remains hopeful, eager to take on whatever challenges come his way, and committed to living life with a renewed sense of purpose and clarity.
You can watch the full episode above. And don’t forget to check back at all previous episodes of this interview mini-series only on the Generation Iron Fitness Network!
