Podcast
Confessions of a Bikini Pro
Hosted by Celeste Rains-Turk · EN
The Confessions of a Bikini Pro Podcast is the only place where IFBB bikini pros share their struggles, strategies, stories, insights, and advice in a real, raw, and vulnerable setting.
The goal of this podcast is to educate, inspire, and remind other competitors, athletes, or the every day gym goer that even the most elite professionals face hardships, health problems, mental obstacles, and other adversities.
All show notes, time stamps, links, and information can be found on this page, just search the athlete you want to listen to in the alphabetized categories section or keep scrolling.
Make sure to subscribe, rate, and review this podcast if you love it as much as we do so we can continue spreading the message to people worldwide! And be sure to follow @celestial_fit on instagram too for behind the scenes, sneak peeks, and more! Tag her and the guests in your posts and stories loving on the podcasts too!
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16episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
ANDRIA BROWN- Fit Model Pro
1w ago01:20:54Tap to summarizeToday's guest is Andria Brown, an IFBB Fit Model Pro, whose journey into bodybuilding is rooted in resilience, survival, and an unshakable belief that anything is possible. Originally from Roanoke, Virginia, she stepped out on her own at just 17 years old and has built her life from the ground up. Her story includes time in foster care, navigating abuse, and using athletics as both an escape and a path forward. From softball at a young age to football, track, and weightlifting, movement became more than just sport—it became a lifeline. Now, she's not only a professional athlete but also a coach dedicated to making fitness accessible to everyone, creating opportunities for those who may not otherwise have the resources. Her journey is raw, real, and deeply inspiring and today, we're diving into all of it. Andria's Background & Journey Personal History: Andrea overcame significant challenges including foster care, adoption, abuse, and homelessness to become an IFBB fit model pro Athletic Foundation: Competed in multiple sports including softball, ballet, volleyball, track and field, football, and weightlifting from a young age Education Path: Won a competitive Air Force scholarship, attended NC State for nuclear engineering, later switched to online college at Colorado State, currently pursuing registered dietitian certification Family Support: Brother Adam was instrumental in her survival and support; currently has a supportive partner of almost 4 years and his family Competition & Training Insights Upcoming Competition: Las Vegas Pro Natural show (6 days from recording date) - goal is to shake off nerves and get back on stage after winning pro card Prep Challenges: Started two new jobs and school during prep, hit a plateau at 136 pounds, took a 2-week break recommended by coach Adam Atkinson which helped reset mindset and progress Pre-Stage Ritual: Focuses on music, body awareness (feeling fingers and toes), and tells herself "I've done this before, and I can do it again" Mental Approach: Views fitness as a skill set rather than perfection; focuses on consistency over time rather than perfect execution Coaching Philosophy Accessibility Focus: Offers two tiers - premium full-service coaching and more affordable options based on client budget Client Approach: Meets clients where they are, focuses on building skills incrementally, provides education over shame Personal Connection: Uses her own experiences with emotional eating, trauma, and addiction to relate to and support clients without judgment Target Audience: Passionate about helping young adults and kids in foster care find transformation through athletics Personal Growth & Mindset Key Philosophy: "Choose your stress" - focus energy on what can be controlled rather than what cannot Self-Compassion: Acknowledges that coping mechanisms like emotional eating were necessary survival tools at the time Progress Mindset: Estimated improvement in relationship with food from 60% last year to 85% this year Complex PTSD Management: Uses affirmations ("you are safe, you are okay") when stress responses trigger, especially during deep prep Gratitude Practice: Actively chooses to focus on what she has rather than what she lacks Future Goals Athletic Goals: Compete as fit model pro, eventually try bikini division after having children, ultimate goal is Olympia Career Goals: Become a registered dietitian, help 5 people achieve similar transformations Foster Care Advocacy: Raise awareness about the 6,000-child shortage in North Carolina foster care system, educate potential foster parents Podcast Launch: "Fit Model Unfiltered" (Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fitmodelnofilter/) - planned launch by end of summer 2026, featuring vulnerable stories and interviews with fit model athletes and coaches Inspirational Messages On Comparison: "Other people being beautiful and doing amazing does not change anything about you" On Perseverance: "It's okay if people who've been doing this multiple years longer than you are better than you. They should be." On Taking Action: "Just have the audacity" - don't take life too seriously, have the courage to try On Self-Talk: How you talk to yourself before entering a situation significantly impacts the outcome On Expectations: "If you can accept what you can expect, you're gonna be in a lot better position" CONNECT WITH ANDRIA: https://www.instagram.com/andria.ifbbpro/ https://www.instagram.com/fitmodelnofilter/ CONNECT WITH CELESTE: Website:http://www.celestial.fit Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/celestial_fit/ All Links:http://www.celestial.fit/links.html
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KYLA DICKERSON- Fit Model Pro
2w ago01:26:40Tap to summarizeCeleste interviewed Kyla Dickerson, an IFBB fit model pro, coach, and posing specialist who has competed in 28 marathons and is redefining strength and confidence for women over 40 in bodybuilding. Kyla shared how her late mother instilled visualization techniques in her at a young age, including a specific example of learning to do a back dive, which became a foundation for her approach to achieving goals. The conversation touched on Kyla's pre-competition rituals and her mother's belief in visualization and manifestation, which Kyla described as key to her success across various endeavors including marathons and pageants. Personal Philosophy and Career Support Kyla shared her personal philosophy of staying true to herself regardless of her surroundings, inspired by her mother's advice to "live like it's your last day." She discussed how her husband supports her career as an athlete and IPV fitness model, with him encouraging her to focus on helping women over 40 feel better in their bodies and minds. Kyla expressed gratitude for her husband's support and mentioned her regret about not taking a photo with him after receiving her pro card at her first competition. Kyla's First Pro Show Victory Kyla shared her experience winning her first pro show, describing the challenging journey to Pittsburgh Nationals where she faced multiple obstacles including weather delays, flight changes, and her husband getting sick. Despite these difficulties, Kyla and a fellow competitor who was also traveling to the show managed to find accommodations and workout facilities. When Kyla won the pro card, she was genuinely surprised as she had been discouraged by her previous bikini competition experiences and had initially planned not to compete at all that year. Fit Model Competition Experience Kyla shared her experience competing in her first professional fit model show, where she placed 5th in the Masters division. She discussed the unique aspects of fit model competitions, including the unpredictability of placements and the opportunity to connect with other competitors. Kyla expressed her preference for competing in the Masters category and shared feedback about her performance, including suggestions for improvement. She also mentioned plans to discuss concerns about the treatment of the Masters division compared to Open division on a podcast. Masters vs Open Division Disparities Kyla expressed concerns about discrepancies in prize money and placement recognition between Masters and Open divisions at a competition. She noted that Masters competitors were not charged to compete but questioned why they received different treatment in terms of prize money and placement recognition compared to Open competitors. Kyla emphasized the need for equal treatment between divisions, particularly highlighting the challenges faced by older competitors in the Masters division. Physique Competition Division Strategies Kyla and Celeste discussed the challenges and strategies in competitive physique shows, particularly focusing on the differences between the Masters and Open divisions. They explored how placement in one division might affect competitors' performance in the other, with Celeste suggesting that going first in the Open division could be advantageous. Kyla emphasized the importance of not letting placement define an athlete's future in the sport and highlighted the success of pro show winners who embody the fit model look. The conversation also touched on the inspiring presence of older competitors and Kyla's mission to empower women over 40 through her achievements and story of discipline in the sport. Coaching for Women Over 40 Kyla discussed her coaching approach for women over 40, emphasizing that sustainable transformation is possible without extreme measures. She shared personal experiences with body dysmorphia and how running helped her cope with challenges in her first marriage and her mother's illness. Kyla explained that her motivation in bodybuilding comes from wanting her mother to have experienced the joy of fitness, as her mother was unable to participate due to health issues. Mother's Inspiration in Fitness Career Kyla shared how her late mother Darla inspired her fitness career, particularly after her mother's passing when Kyla became a group fitness instructor. She described how her mother's resilience during her final illness, including continuing to find joy despite severe pain and broken bones, motivated Kyla to push through her own challenges during marathon training. Kyla emphasized the importance of cherishing time with loved ones and not taking moments together for granted. Loss and Memory Preservation Discussion Celeste and Kyla discussed their experiences with loss and how they carry their loved ones' memories forward. Kyla shared how she connects with her mother and brother through meaningful symbols and experiences, including the significance of the number 444. They also discussed Kyla's role as a group fitness manager at a Lifetime gym in La Jolla, where she has developed strong connections with her long-standing class participants. The conversation ended with Celeste preparing to ask Kyla about challenges faced by women over 40, though this portion of the discussion was not included in the transcript segment provided. Women's Fitness Coaching Challenges Kyla discussed the challenges of coaching women on fitness journeys, particularly around redefining goals beyond just weight loss and addressing misconceptions about nutrition, especially for women over 40 who may have experienced the low-carb era. She emphasized the importance of accountability and long-term commitment in fitness coaching, noting that many clients need guidance to focus on sustainable practices rather than quick fixes. Kyla highlighted that while supplements and modern tools exist, they cannot replace the fundamentals of proper eating and training, and she stays focused on helping clients build consistent habits and maintain patience through the challenging process. Miss Utah's Fear Factor Experience Celeste interviewed Kyla, who shared her experience as Miss Utah 2004 and participating in a Miss U.S.A. edition of Fear Factor. Kyla described her challenging experience on the show, including a difficult ocean platform challenge that led to her being the first contestant eliminated. She provided advice for aspiring competitors, emphasizing the importance of getting a coach immediately and not underestimating the preparation time required. Kyla also shared insights for pro competitors, stressing the need for confidence and strong posing on stage. The conversation concluded with Kyla sharing her contact information for those interested in working with her as a coach or trainer. CONNECT WITH CELESTE: Website:http://www.celestial.fit Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/celestial_fit/ All Links:http://www.celestial.fit/links.html CONNECT WITH KYLA: https://www.instagram.com/kylafaye_ifbbpro/
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EMILY CHANEL- Fit Model
3w ago01:20:39Tap to summarizeCeleste hosted Fit Model Pro Champion Emily Chanel, who shared her inspirational journey from military service and depression to becoming the first-ever Fit Model Pro and Olympia qualifier. The discussion centered on how bodybuilding transformed her mental health, how she balances multiple roles as a mother, counselor, and athlete, and how she promotes growth within the emerging Fit Model division. Emily emphasized resilience, authenticity, and mental discipline as the keys to success. She also discussed her relationship with her fiancé Stan, who helped her stay natural and grounded in the sport, and her passion for guiding new competitors through posing and presentation coaching. Key Discussion Topics 1. Career and Fit Model Division Leadership Emily is the first-ever Fit Model Pro Champion and inaugural Olympia qualifier. Competed since 2021; upcoming shows:New York Pro and Pittsburgh Pro, both used to gain Olympia panel feedback before the Olympia. Sees her role as helping define and promote the Fit Model division, encouraging more women to join through YouTube vlogs, posing clinics, and direct outreach. 2. Mental Health and Bodybuilding Connection Military veteran andmental health counselor specializing in addiction. Uses principles likeresilience, breath control, and disciplineto stay grounded during prep. Bodybuilding initially helped her recover fromdepression and traumaduring her divorce and single motherhood. 3. Motherhood and Balance Raises two children; attributes patience, consistency, and routine learned from parenting to her bodybuilding success. Being active sets a healthy example for her kids, teaching self‑care, structure, and resilience. 4. Relationship and Support System Fiancé Stan, a seasoned Olympian, influenced her mindset, helping her recognize bodybuilding's artistry and importance of staying natural. They balance one another—Emily adds fun and flexibility, while Stan provides focus and discipline. 5. Coaching and Professional Identity Runs posing sessions emphasizing confidence, stage presence, and mental readiness. Differentiates between being a counselor and a posing coach to keep professional boundaries clear. Uses motivational interviewing techniques to boost clients' self‑belief and composure. 6. Personal Philosophy and Advice Advocates forpatience, routine, community, and gratitude. Advises new competitors to enjoy the process and surround themselves with positive influences. For aspiring pros: practice resilience, learn from feedback, and act "as a pro" before earning the title. Highlights Journey Origin:Began lifting post‑divorce to combat depression; found purpose in bodybuilding. Professional Cross‑Over:Incorporates counseling skills—resilience and mindfulness—into athletic coaching. Representation:Leading advocate for Fit Model division's legitimacy and accessibility. Quote Insight:"Bodybuilding isn't just physical building; it's mental, emotional, and life‑building." Source Note:This summary is based on information from a recorded podcast interview. Other related materials or updates may exist beyond this meeting. CONNECT WITH EMILY: https://www.instagram.com/emilychanell/ ALL LINKS: https://linktr.ee/emilychanel?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=225fd2eb-961a-451c-a01d-e08ae9328515
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KAYLA TRULUCK- Fit Model Pro
4w ago01:20:19Tap to summarizeCeleste Rains-Turk interviewed newly crowned IFBB Fit Model Pro Kayla Truluck about her unique journey from bikini competition to becoming one of the first ten IFBB fit model pros. The conversation explored Kayla's competition experiences, faith, career as a nurse practitioner, personal life, and her holistic approach to bodybuilding. Kayla shared insights on training adaptations for the fit model division, refeed strategies, mindset, faith practices, and balancing her competitive goals with her healthcare career and personal life. They also discussed her upcoming pro debut, community involvement, and encouragement for other competitors. Key Discussion Topics 1. Transition to Fit Model Division Kayla switched from bikini to fit model only 6–8 weeks before her show, prompted by her coach and curiosity about the new category. She stopped training shoulders to adapt her physique, found the posing moderately different, and achieved early success by winning the Peach Classic and earning her pro card at Junior Nationals. 2. Competition Experiences & Preparation Preparing for her pro debut at St. Pete Pro in June 2026, with Tampa Pro planned a month later. Prefers a slower, sustainable prep style emphasizing refeeds (5–6 to date). Refeeds consist mainly of chicken sandwiches and fries, controlled with familiar condiments, occasionally including a cookie. 3. Mindset, Nervousness & Stage Rituals Uses prayer and mental cues from her posing coach to stay grounded and calm on stage. Keeps a lighthearted, sociable attitude backstage to manage nerves. 4. Balancing Career & Fitness Works full-time as a nurse practitioner performing pre-employment and VA disability exams. Finds fulfillment in helping veterans and building patient relationships. Prefers maintaining a career outside fitness to avoid burnout and keep perspective. 5. Faith and Personal Growth Practices daily devotionals and Bible reading; participates in a yearly plan and weekly devotional with her husband. Faith helped her navigate divorce and rediscover strength and purpose before meeting her current husband. 6. Personal Life and Faith Journey Met her husband serendipitously on a Southwest flight; they connected instantly and view it as a "God moment." Reflected on redemption after a challenging first marriage, citing faith as central to her healing and renewed joy. 7. Community, Volunteering, & Work-Life Balance Volunteers teaching young children at church, finding joy and purpose in service despite exhaustion. Maintains early morning workout routines, structured meal prep, and quiet time for reflection. 8. Humor and Behind-the-Scenes Moments Shared lighthearted competition stories including nearly missing stage call due to "nervous poops" after coffee and waking up with tan handprints. Emphasized that competing "isn't glamorous behind the scenes." Key Takeaways & Advice For New Competitors: Join the bodybuilding community early and find a supportive, experienced coach. Learn about nutrition, posing, and training before stepping on stage. Approach the process with patience—don't rush competition readiness. For Those on the Road to Pro: Trust the process and your coach. Focus on personal growth, not just winning. Celebrate each phase, knowing success unfolds according to God's plan. Source Note:This summary is based on multiple meeting transcripts from a recorded podcast interview between Celeste Rains-Turk and Kayla Truluck. Additional related materials may exist beyond those included here. CONNECT WITH KAYLA: https://www.instagram.com/kaylafitpro/ CONNECT WITH CELESTE: Website:http://www.celestial.fit Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/celestial_fit/ All Links:http://www.celestial.fit/links.html
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BROOKLYN GOODSELL- FIT MODEL; Mental Game of Transitioning To Fit Model, Postpartum Depression and Prep, Hormone Red Flags, Deeper Meanings
Apr 1701:18:46Tap to summarizeIn today's episode, I sit down with IFBB Fit Model Pro Brooklyn Goodsell, a mom and founder of Fierce Queen Fitness. She started competing in 2013 and competed on and off through 2017 before stepping away to have her son in 2018. She returned to the stage when he was 13 months old, placing 4th at the Idaho Cup while navigating postpartum depression and building her business. Over the years, she competed at the national level across multiple seasons before transitioning into the Fit Model division in 2025. She earned her Pro card at the 2025 Amateur Olympia where she placed first. TOPICS COVERED -Mental side of competing and having a good headspace -almost quitting competing -having support -identity outside of competing -therapy and getting help -PCOS and hormone issues CONNECT WITH CELESTE: Website: http://www.celestial.fit Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/celestial_fit/ All Links: http://www.celestial.fit/links.html CONNECT WITH BROOKLYN: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brooklyn_ifbbfitmodel/ TIME STAMPS 1:00 introduction 4:58 the emotional side of competing 7:35 lead up to Pro card win 19:39 keeping up hope 16:20 shifting look of bikini 33:41 the feeling of winning her Pro card 37:53 returning to stage postpartum 43:45 healing through fitness 49:15 the importance of therapy 52:43 being a coach and starting a business 59:32 insight for women 64:44 prepping for her Pro debut 68:40 having a family that competes 74:00 advice for competitors CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR THE FREE FOOD RELATIONSHIP COACHING SERIES CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR THE FREE POST SHOW BLUES COACHING SERIES LEARN MORE AND APPLY FOR MY 5 WEEK FOOD RELATIONSHIP HEALING & DISCOVERY COACHING PROGRAM FOR OTHER FREE RESOURCES, LIVE EVENTS, AND WAYS TO WORK WITH CELESTE CLICK HERE
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KAMILIA WOOLSEY; Self-Doubt's Silver Lining, Making Your Kids Proud, Home Cleaning in St.George, Consistent Effort
Feb 2001:00:42Tap to summarizeIn today's episode, I sit down with Kamilia Woosley, an IFBB Pro, business owner, and moto mom who opens up about the fast rise to her Pro card and the self-doubt that followed her every step of the way. After starting in 2023, stepping away, and returning in 2025 to win both Open and Novice before earning her Pro card at USAs, Kamilia is now preparing for her Pro debut and sharing the unfiltered reality behind the title. We talk about balancing motherhood, business ownership, ambition, and anxiety while still pushing for more. This conversation is about chasing big goals while learning to quiet the voice that says you are not enough, and doing it in a way that sets an example for your family. TOPICS COVERED -overcoming anxiety -the road to Pro -doubting yourself -striving for more -setting an example for your kids -setting boundaries and expectations CONNECT WITH CELESTE: Website: http://www.celestial.fit Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/celestial_fit/ All Links: http://www.celestial.fit/links.html CONNECT WITH KAMILIA: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kamilialeigh.ifbbpro/ Cleaning: https://www.instagram.com/pristineshine.cleaning/ TIME STAMPS 1:00 introduction 6:29 getting into bodybuilding 13:36 plans for a Pro card 15:53 overcoming self-doubt 18:45 trajectory for bikini and fit model 21:58 prepping for a Pro debut 29:23 bodybuilding and family life 35:34 dealing with mom guilt 38:48 structuring your days 46:12 running a cleaning business 54:59 advice for competitors CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR THE FREE FOOD RELATIONSHIP COACHING SERIES CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR THE FREE POST SHOW BLUES COACHING SERIES LEARN MORE AND APPLY FOR MY 5 WEEK FOOD RELATIONSHIP HEALING & DISCOVERY COACHING PROGRAM FOR OTHER FREE RESOURCES, LIVE EVENTS, AND WAYS TO WORK WITH CELESTE CLICK HERE
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MESHAYA KEATON; Facing the Fear, Scale Fluctuations, Pride in Progress, Resiliency through Injury
Feb 1301:10:26Tap to summarizeIn today's episode, I sit down with IFBB Pro Meshaya Keaton, a natural competitor with a background in Exercise Science and Psychology. Meshaya has been competing since 2017 and earned her Pro card at North Americans in 2019. We talk about the mental side of the sport, learning from past shows, and building resilience through both success and disappointment. Her passion for fitness and mental health shines through in this conversation, especially as she shares how competing helped shape her identity and long term goals. TOPICS COVERED -mental health and bodybuilding -how she found the sport -learning from past show experiences -facing fear and building resiliency -competing as a natural athlete -passion for fitness and growth CONNECT WITH CELESTE: Website: http://www.celestial.fit Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/celestial_fit/ All Links: http://www.celestial.fit/links.html CONNECT WITH MESHAYA: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/live4themoment_ifbbpro/ TIME STAMPS 1:00 introduction 3:55 approaching mental health 7:18 finding body building 12:36 having a support system 19:05 a passion for health and fitness 22:03 progression in the off season 25:00 the truth about macros 31:07 changes to becoming a Pro 36:50 working towards feedback 45:16 dealing with disappointing placing 53:12 building resiliency 59:34 building for the future 63:54 advice for competitors CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR THE FREE FOOD RELATIONSHIP COACHING SERIES CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR THE FREE POST SHOW BLUES COACHING SERIES LEARN MORE AND APPLY FOR MY 5 WEEK FOOD RELATIONSHIP HEALING & DISCOVERY COACHING PROGRAM FOR OTHER FREE RESOURCES, LIVE EVENTS, AND WAYS TO WORK WITH CELESTE CLICK HERE
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MORGAN ELDRETT; PED Police Raid and Coming off of Enhancements, Identity Shift, Values Outside of Bodybuilding, Mindset Methods
Feb 601:30:17Tap to summarizeIn today's episode, I sit down with IFBB Pro Morgan Eldrett, host of the Mindset Lounge podcast and a coach who blends physique sport with mindset and high performance. Morgan started competing in 2022, earned her Pro card in 2023, and made her Pro debut in 2025. Since then, she has expanded her work beyond posing into mindset, training, nutrition, and performance coaching, helping ambitious athletes execute at a higher level. This conversation dives into identity, values, and what happens when your goals force you to re-evaluate the way you approach the sport. Morgan opens up about stepping away from PEDs, informed consent, and redefining success outside of bodybuilding, while still pursuing excellence. TOPICS COVERED -turning nerves into usable energy -defining your values inside and outside of the sport -expanding your identity beyond bodybuilding -informed consent and stepping away from PEDs -trusting yourself and doing things differently -daily mindset habits for high performance CONNECT WITH CELESTE: Website: http://www.celestial.fit Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/celestial_fit/ All Links: http://www.celestial.fit/links.html CONNECT WITH MORGAN: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/morganeldrett/ TIME STAMPS 1:00 introduction 4:03 quick road to Pro 8:20 having ambition to reach goals 13:24 dating a bodybuilder 18:43 expanding your identity 25:45 knowing when you're aligned with your values 29:20 PED usage and stopping them 37:54 competing as a Pro without PEDs 44:20 sharing her story 51:45 changes after coming off PEDs 60:07 educating others about PEDs 69:11 community and leadership 71:35 daily non-negotiables 78:15 having a growth mindset 87:10 advice for competitors CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR THE FREE FOOD RELATIONSHIP COACHING SERIES CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR THE FREE POST SHOW BLUES COACHING SERIES LEARN MORE AND APPLY FOR MY 5 WEEK FOOD RELATIONSHIP HEALING & DISCOVERY COACHING PROGRAM FOR OTHER FREE RESOURCES, LIVE EVENTS, AND WAYS TO WORK WITH CELESTE CLICK HERE
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NAOMI JORDAN; Navigating the Fear of Starting, To Continue to Compete or Not?, Spiritual Gifts, Dental Hygiene
Jan 3001:17:14Tap to summarizeIn today's episode, I sit down with IFBB Pro Naomi Jordan, a registered dental hygienist who found bodybuilding as both a creative outlet and a space for personal growth. She began training in the gym around 2013, stepped on stage for the first time in 2022, and earned her Pro card in 2023 at just her third show. Naomi shares her journey of navigating uncertainty, listening to her inner voice, and balancing faith, career, and competing at a high level. We talk about the fear of getting started, evolving your relationship with the sport, and how to decide whether continuing to compete aligns with your life and values. Naomi also opens up about competing after multiple knee surgeries, finding the right coach, and staying grounded in seasons of transition. TOPICS COVERED -Navigating uncertainty and seasons of transition -Listening to your inner voice and aligning choices with your goals -Competing against yourself, not others -Faith, spiritual gifts, and identity outside the sport -Balancing a demanding career with bodybuilding -Dental health and life as a hygienist -Using bodybuilding as a creative outlet CONNECT WITH CELESTE: Website: http://www.celestial.fit Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/celestial_fit/ All Links: http://www.celestial.fit/links.html CONNECT WITH NAOMI: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/naomii.jordann/ TIME STAMPS 1:00 introduction 2:45 competing against yourself 4:55 from soccer to bodybuilding 9:45 red flags and finding the right coach 12:41 multiple knee surgeries 17:29 evolving relationship with competing 20:30 being a woman of faith 22:30 3rd place at her Pro debut 31:12 feedback from Pro debut 35:30 internal motivation versus identity 41:28 being a dental hygienist 56:25 balancing work on competing 60:00 spiritual gifts 66:12 bodybuilding as a creative outlet 73:22 advice for competitors CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR THE FREE FOOD RELATIONSHIP COACHING SERIES CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR THE FREE POST SHOW BLUES COACHING SERIES LEARN MORE AND APPLY FOR MY 5 WEEK FOOD RELATIONSHIP HEALING & DISCOVERY COACHING PROGRAM FOR OTHER FREE RESOURCES, LIVE EVENTS, AND WAYS TO WORK WITH CELESTE CLICK HERE
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SANDY ARAVE; Rodeo Mom to Masters Champion, Living through Grief, Don't Chase The Card, Say Yes More
Jan 2301:18:38Tap to summarizeIn today's episode, I sit down with IFBB Pro Sandy Arave, a 55-year-old high school counselor whose path to bodybuilding success is anything but conventional. Sandy began competing in 2022 and earned her Pro card at North Americans in 2024. In 2025, she made her Pro debut and went on to win two Pro shows in the 55+ categories. Before bodybuilding, Sandy lived a very different competitive life as a barrel racer, competing at professional rodeos. Her journey into the sport came alongside navigating grief, health challenges, and major life transitions. This conversation is an honest look at resilience, purpose, and why chasing growth matters more than chasing a card. TOPICS COVERED -Living and competing through grief and trauma -Transitioning from competitive barrel racing to bodybuilding -Building and leaning on a strong support system -Lessons learned through failure and setbacks -Being a role model at any age -Prioritizing health while pursuing big goals CONNECT WITH CELESTE: Website: http://www.celestial.fit Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/celestial_fit/ All Links: http://www.celestial.fit/links.html CONNECT WITH SANDY: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sandytaylorarave_ifbbpro/ TIME STAMPS 1:00 introduction 3:14 having a competitive nature 5:53 life before competing 13:13 balance work life and competing 16:56 competing through grief 26:41 how grief has impacted her life 35:16 taking chances 43:10 advice for balancing life and competing 52:35 making her Pro debut 59:30 dealing with thyroid issues 66:38 prioritizing health 73:05 advice for competitors CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR THE FREE FOOD RELATIONSHIP COACHING SERIES CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR THE FREE POST SHOW BLUES COACHING SERIES LEARN MORE AND APPLY FOR MY 5 WEEK FOOD RELATIONSHIP HEALING & DISCOVERY COACHING PROGRAM FOR OTHER FREE RESOURCES, LIVE EVENTS, AND WAYS TO WORK WITH CELESTE CLICK HERE
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