Can you imagine working hard to achieve your pro card and one week out from your pro debut you receive news that could change the trajectory of your rookie season and your life? It's an intense feeling and the athlete coming on today is going to share with us her journey to pro status and the obstacles she's faced along the way. You're in for a treat. Rebecca is a doctor of physical therapy and a fitness specialist for the US Navy. She's got so much knowledge and wisdom to share with us!

What you'll hear in this episode:

[2:30] Bikini Hack

[8:00] How did your fitness journey begin?

[10:00] What do you think it is about Bikini that attracted you to it?

[12:00] What are some things you've learned working as a physical therapist that could be helpful for other athletes to know?

[13:00] What would you consider overtraining to look like?

[14:00] What are some of your favorite recovery methods?

[16:30] Can you share some exercises that we should avoid because they aren't beneficial or may lead to injury?

[18:30] What do you recommend when you need to back off training due to an injury?

[20:30] After you did your first show how long were you competing until you decided you wanted to take a break?

[24:00] Which of your three weddings was your favorite?

[25:30] What was it about the sport that make you want to come back after taking a break?

[27:00] What has your experience been like living in Japan?

[32:30] Why did you want to turn pro?

[35:00] Did you have a strategy to help you achieve your goal of becoming a pro?

[36:00] Did you come across any obstacles in achieving your pro card?

[37:30] What challenges did you face during your pro debut?

[42:30] What was your experience like competing after finding out about your dad's cancer diagnosis?

[45:50] How is your relationship with your dad as an adult and being able to help him with his illness?

[49:30] What has your experience as a pro been like?

[51:00] What would you say to somebody who is dealing with something that makes them want to throw in the towel to help them stay focused and keep going?

[52:30] When were you diagnosed with generalized anxiety?

[55:00] Is there anything that helps you when you're going through an episode?

[56:00] What are your goals in the sport moving forward and what are you currently working on?

[58:00] Dear diary

* Connect with Rebecca on IG @rebeccaianno_ifbbpro

* Find her on TikTok @rebeccaianno_ifbbpro

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Liza Davis joins us! Originally from England, she's a mother of twins and she's getting vulnerable today!

She's sharing how a life threatening event almost ended her career in bodybuilding. This event continues to affect her every single day but she doesn't let it stop her from pursuing her greatest passion. She has been in the sport since 2016 and isn't letting anything stand in her way.

What you'll hear in this episode:

[4:00] Bikini Hack

[11:30] How Liza's fitness journey began

[14:30] Why she started doing bikini and how she was introduced to the sport

[15:30] What got her hooked?

[16:00] The judgement she faced as she was getting into bodybuilding

[18:00] The challenges of beginning at an older age

[19:30] When she knew that she wanted to take this sport to the next level and go for her pro card

[20:00] What makes the pro level desirable?

[20:30] Liza's pro card journey

[22:30] The qualities that allowed her to do so well as an amateur

[25:00] Her experience in the masters division

[26:00] How things get more challenging as you get older

[28:30] Differences in the way that you prep in masters category

[32:30] When you're in prep do you still allow yourself to travel? How would you say that you incorporate living your life and being in prep?

[37:00] What do you think has helped you have longevity in this sport?

[38:30] What is it that always pushes you to keep going?

[39:00] Can you share about the health set back that you experienced last year?

[42:00] This set back is something that you couldn't just drive through. What exactly did you do to take a step back and relax?

[43:30] How did you start to compete again?

[46:00] How did it feel to step back on stage again?

[47:00] How did it feel to win your first pro show?

[47:30] What are you planning next?

[53:30] What are you looking forward to most this year?

[55:30] Dear diary

* Connect with Liza on IG @lizabrit222

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Brittany shares how she got started with bikini competitions after having a child and what motivated her to pursue this goal. We discuss the importance of balancing multiple responsibilities and valuing downtime, especially when competing at a high level.

We also dive into the challenges of competing, including doubts and tough times during preparation, and the excitement of her pro debut. Brittany shares her journey of earning her pro card, the shifts and changes that occur during preparation, and what she's doing differently for her pro debut.

Finally, we talk about Brittany's current goals for the future and what she's most looking forward to. Her inspiring story and expert advice will motivate and encourage you to achieve your own fitness goals.

What you'll hear in this episode:

[4:00] Bikini Hack

[8:50] How Brittany's fitness journey began

[10:00] Why she wanted to do Bikini after having a child

[11:40] What allowed her to keep a balance between competing and being a mother?

[14:50] Brittany’s relationship with her mom 

[18:50] The many hats she juggles in your life, and how she does it

[25:10] What has helped her value her downtime

[26:25] How do things shift and change while you're in prep?

[29:45] What helps her get through those tough times?

[32:50] What her pro debut meant to her

[35:00] The journey of how Brittany got her pro card

[39:50] How Brittany stayed focused during her improvement season

[41:05] How often she experiences doubt

[42:54] What her show experience was like

[48:50] How she's feeling about getting ready for her pro debut

[50:30] What Brittany's most looking forward to

[51:30] What she's doing differently for her pro debut?

[52:45] Brittany's goals for the future

[54:50] Dear Diary

*Connect with Brittany on IG: @brittchristine_ifbbpro

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I'm thrilled to be joined today by the incredible Johanna Durr, an IFBB pro with an inspiring story to share!

Johanna's fitness journey started like many of us, with a desire to feel better about herself and make healthy changes. She worked hard, saw results, and found a deep passion for building muscle and getting leaner. Along the way, she learned all about proper nutrition and training, and built a solid foundation of healthy habits that helped her push herself even further.

She didn't stop there! Johanna went on to compete in bodybuilding competitions, and the challenge of pushing her body to its limits and the supportive community of fellow competitors kept her going. Through her hard work and dedication, she achieved her pro card, and she continues to strive to be the best version of herself on and off the stage.

In this episode, Johanna shares her experiences of competing, living with another bodybuilder (her husband!), and traveling long distances for competitions. She also talks about how she learned to be more feminine and balance her personal and professional life. Her journey is one of dedication, passion, and hard work, and it's sure to inspire you to reach for your goals, no matter how big they may seem.

Join us on this journey of empowerment and self-love! Let's dive in and hear from Johanna on how she became the powerhouse she is today!

What you'll hear in this episode:

[1:34] Episode Introduction

[2:20] Bikini Hack

[8:30] How Johanna's fitness journey began.

[11:40] Changes she saw in your body, and what she wanted to change.

[14:10] How she created her foundation.

[16:20] What she loved most about the sport when she first started competing.

[17:45] Gym culture in Germany.

[19:30] What her friends and family had to say about her competing.

[25:50] Traveling far for competitions.

[27:05] Living with another bodybuilder, her husband.

[29:55] Her relationship with her husband once she turned pro.

[32:15] Educating herself about the sport.

[39:45] What was it like for you to learn to be more feminine since you were more of a tomboy?

[45:20] Getting her pro card.

[47:00] What were the judge's critiques, and what are you working on now?

[54:50] Dear Diary

*Connect with Johanna on IG @_johanniii

*Check out Johanna's podcast "Beauties & Beasts"

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I'm excited to have Stella Roberts on the show to discuss the evolution of the bikini industry since 2009. During our conversation, we explore the importance of glutes in the industry, and how women are looking better and better as more people want to compete as they age. Stella also shares her personal journey, including how she managed to show up as the glam queen of the day and what kept her motivated throughout her career.

We're getting real about the challenges that come with the industry, including self-doubt, and Stella shares what helped her overcome her fears and insecurities. Her insights provide valuable lessons on what it takes to succeed in a highly competitive field.

Finally, we get a glimpse of what Stella is currently working on, her plans and goals for the future, and how she continues to push herself to new heights. Whether you're a seasoned bikini competitor or just curious about the industry, there's so much to takeaway from this conversation with Stella.

What you'll hear in this episode:

[3:52] Bikini Hack Questions

[14:55] How Stella's fitness journey began

[17:32] What she loved most about the sport back in 2013?

[20:53] Troubles with confidence and how to build it

[24:52] Building mass in order to be competitive

[29:34] What can we do to hide our stretch marks?

[32:53] How we separate ourselves from our negative self-talk

[41:48] Removing the loose skin on the glute area

[44:33] Stella's opinion on the evolution of bikini competing as a whole

[52:20] Would it be worth it to have surgery for implants if it meant you would win more?

[1:00:30] Doing anything you can to win and the mindset that is created by that, along with the honesty needed in the sport.

[1:10:09] What Stella is currently working on and what she has planned for this year

[1:14:17] Bikini Dairies Question

[1:16:36] Final Advice

* Connect with Stella on social to follow her journey:

IG: @blackfitnessbarbie

FB: @blackfitnessbarbie

TT: @blackfitnessbarbie

* Check out Stella's coaching services:

IG: @powerstanceposing

FB: @powerstanceposing

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I have Amy Vetters as my guest today! We're chatting about how she earned her pro card through sheer determination and hard work. Plus, Amy reveals some of her pre and post-show tactics that help her stay focused and grounded.

She's also sharing insights on leading with your heart and staying true to yourself for personal growth and progress but that doesn't mean it's always easy. Amy's opening up about the hardest thing she had to overcome in her journey and the importance of learning how to think, which can make all the difference in achieving your goals.

We're also discussing the struggles that couples can face when working together, and the importance of communication and support.

What you'll hear in this episode:

[4:04] Bikini Hack

[12:17] The beginning of Amy's fitness journey

[18:35] How Amy's life began to change

[22:27] How bodybuilding has enriched Amy's business and opportunities 

[25:55] Why does tapping into wellness lead to so many positive aspects in our lives?

[28:48] The hardest part of diving into bodybuilding and changing careers

[31:39] How Amy met her husband, and their experience as partners in a relationship, in business, and with him as her coach

[43:45] Qualities of a spouse that can help them support us as bikini athletes

[50:58] How it felt to get her pro card

[1:00:45] What's next for Amy

[1:04:00] Dear Diary

*Connect with Amy on her social:

IG: @amers_lildyno

FB: Amy Vetters

*Check her two websites for more information on what services each business offers:

Alinea Coaching (Lifestyle and Contest Prep)

      Www.Alineacoaching.com

Nova Tans (tanning salon)

      Www.novatans.com

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Today I have the opportunity to speak with Marina Maliden, a passionate and dedicated fitness enthusiast and IFBB pro. Marina graciously shared her incredible journey with us, from starting in Israel to eventually making her way to the US to pursue her passion for bodybuilding.

One of the main lessons Marina learned along her journey was the importance of proper nutrition and self-care. She realized that fueling her body with the right balance of nutrients was crucial to her success, and made it a priority in her life. And, when it comes to posing on stage, Marina believes that the best time is when you feel confident and ready, and encourages listeners to trust their instincts and go for it.

Another key for Marina is the importance of self-love and body positivity. Throughout her journey, she has learned to appreciate and love her body for what it is, and encourages listeners to do the same. The most important thing is to focus on your own progress and enjoy the journey, without worrying too much about your placement on stage.

What you'll hear in this episode:

[3:15] Bikini Hack 

[8:49] How did your fitness journey begin?

[11:05] How was your experience with competing in Israel

[13:53] What made you want to leave?

[14:35] How did you feel about coming to the US and stepping on stage?

[23:00] How did you stay motivated to keep pushing forward?

[25:46] Diving into the hormone problems that Marina faced 

[37:08] What year did you change the most in your journey, and what did you learn from it? 

[40:14] When did you have doubt, and what did you do to deal with it?

[44:25] How did you feel after finally getting your pro card?

[49:45] How was your Texas experience after getting your pro card, and how have you been since getting your pro card?

[58:11] What show are you getting ready for this year?

* Check out the book "The Women's Precontest Bible"

https://www.amazon.com/Womens-Precontest-Bible-Larry-Pepe/dp/0692258515

* Connect with Marina on all her socials:

IG: @marinaxsky

FB: Marina Kuklinsky Maliden

YT: IFBB PRO Marina Maliden

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Get ready to take your bodybuilding journey to the next level! I'm joined by Shantal, an IFBB Pro who's sharing her experience and knowledge. From her insider tips for the perfect bikini fit to her motivational factors for competing, Shantal has it all covered. She knows the importance of having a coach who is open to trying new things and she's sharing her thoughts on balancing a coaching relationship with a friendship. Shantal's also a big believer self-care and taking time off when necessary. Not only that, she's teaching us how to bounce back after a disappointing placement. Shantal opens up about her struggles with body dysmorphia and how she overcame it. Despite the challenges of not always coming in leaner during shows, she believes that the more you step on stage, the more confident and comfortable you become. Join us to find out what Shantal is currently working on and what she has in store for the future!

4:00 Bikini Hack 14:32 How did your fitness journey begin?  17:00 What about getting last place gave you the fire to push forward and to continue with bodybuilding? 19:19 What is it that you love so much about cheat meals? 20:06 Who were positive influences for you in the sport? 22:35 Were there other times when it was tough to trust the process? 29:32 Why don’t you weigh yourself during peak week? 33:07 What made you want to take five years off from competing? 37:52 Do you still deal with body dysmorphia or have those parts healed?  40:50 What made you want to come back to the sport of bodybuilding?  42:36 What changes did you notice when you came back to the sport?  49:37 What was your process for getting back on stage and continually doing better after each show?  53:11 What was it like placing second at the last show you just did? 54:38 What are you planning to do next or currently working on? 56:52 Bikini Dairies 

*Check out Shantal on IG to follow her journey @chunkywonkymonkey

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Get ready to be inspired, I've gathered the most listened-to episodes from 2022 and pulled out some of the gold!

What you'll hear in this episode:

[1:00] Hope Castelli - The importance of rest.

[2:30] Janine Herrera - Is bikini the right challenge for you?

[6:20] Allex Granger - How to overcome the discouragement that comes with weight gain in restoration.

[9:05] Ann Marie - Ending her season 1 point away from Olympia and knowing it was meant to be

[13:15] Brittany Shulman - Maintaining a positive mindset after working so hard and placing in the sea of 16's

[15:00] Kiki McClellan - Pivoting when you're already content to pursue true joy

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Have you ever wondered what your coaches are thinking? No, they're not just contemplating how to remove calories from your diet, or where you can squeeze in another 10 minutes of cardio. There's a lot more that goes into your success and one company that has set the bar for how they train their athletes is Team Bombshell. Team Bombshell's main focus is bringing people together through the sport of bodybuilding. Join me as I talk with four Bombshell coaches about the importance of working together as an inclusive unit and how they are striving to make bodybuilding a team sport.

We delve into the inner workings of being a coach, and what goes into preparing athletes for success. These coaches share their thoughts on the challenges and considerations that come with being a coach, from creating personalized diet and training plans to helping athletes develop the right mindset for competition. Join us as we explore the impact of community and support in achieving success in the sport of bodybuilding.

Here's what you'll hear:

[5:32] What is the mission of Team Bombshell?

[7:21] What are Bombshell camps like?

[10:20] What are Bombshell's offerings?

[15:50] What is coaching like at Team Bombshell?

[15:57] What does it look like to onboard a new bodybuilding client?

[20:12] What does onboarding look like for transformation clients?

[22:59] What does prep look like?

[28:26] What do your meal plan adjustments look like?

[32:23] What are your pre-show protocols for your clients?

[34:47] Do you have any suit preferences?

[37:31] Do you help with posing?

[39:06] How do you support your athletes with confidence on stage?

[41:24] What are the challenges of being a coach?

[48:16] How do you help your clients combat comparison?

[1:02:38] What is in store for the future of Bombshell Fitness? 

[1:06:25] How has coaching impacted your life? 

[1:10:21] Training necessities 

[1:11:11] Benefits of sweat wraps 

[1:115:10] Benefits of vacuums

* Find Team Bombshell on IG @team_bombshell_news

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