Atlas Podcast

James Ayotte

Hosted by James Ayotte, the head coach of Team Atlas, ”The Atlas Podcast” offers an exclusive look into the realm of Bikini Olympian & IFBB Pro coaching. James, a world renowned bikini coach, delves deep into the intricacies of training, mindset, competition, and what it takes to achieve the pinnacle of success in the world of bodybuilding. Whether you’re an aspiring competitor, a seasoned pro, or just curious about the behind-the-scenes of the IFBB Pro coaching world, tune in to the "Atlas Podcast” for valuable insights, stories, and expert advice.

  1. Atlas Podcast #28 | IFBB Pro Sabra Young & James Ayotte

    09/26/2025

    Atlas Podcast #28 | IFBB Pro Sabra Young & James Ayotte

    In this episode of The Atlas Podcast, I’m joined once again by IFBB Bikini Pro and Team Atlas coach Sabra for a wide ranging conversation covering everything from the new Olympia points system to the evolution of the Fit Model division. We dive deep into why the revamped qualification process will raise the standard of competition, the challenges of peaking athletes at massive shows like the Olympia, and how the prestige of earning that stage spot is being restored. Sabra and I also discuss the fine line of conditioning in bikini, the importance of staying within striking distance of stage weight in the offseason, and how prep timelines should be customized rather than forced into a cookie-cutter 12-week plan. From peptides and performance tools to the realities of moving from lifestyle coaching into elite competitor coaching, we share insights on both the athletic and business sides of bodybuilding. We also reflect on the rise of the Fit Model category, why it’s already thriving, and how Team Atlas has quickly established itself as the leader in producing the most Fit Model pros in the world Of course, it wouldn’t be a podcast with Sabra without some laughs, expect plenty of side tangents, including crystals, chaos, and the behind the scenes madness of competition season. This episode is packed with both practical advice and candid stories that give you an inside look at what it really takes to compete, coach, and stay at the top level of the sport. Hope you enjoy it! The Atlas Podcast is available on:   YouTube: bit.ly/AtlasPodcastYoutube Spotify: bit.ly/AtlasPodcastSpotify Apple Podcast: bit.ly/AtlasPodcastApple   Stay Connected:   Team Atlas Website: www.teamatlasfitness.com James Ayotte's Website: www.jamesayotte.com  Team Atlas on Instagram: @teamatlasmtl & @teamatlaslifestyle James on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/james.ayotte.79 James on Instagram: @jamesxatlas Atlas Podcast on Instagram: @atlaspodcastx Discount links: https://linktr.ee/Jamesayotte

    1h 6m
  2. 03/15/2025

    Atlas Podcast #26 | Lina Gharapetian & James Ayotte

    In this episode of The Atlas Podcast, I sit down with licensed therapist, counselor, and Team Atlas posing coach, Lina Gharapetian, for an in-depth discussion on the mental and emotional challenges athletes face in bodybuilding.We dive into the psychological side of competition, breaking down how to build emotional resilience, manage anxiety during prep, and shift from a perfectionist mindset to one that prioritizes progress and long-term success. Lina shares her expertise on how competitors can develop a strong, balanced mentality and avoid common mental pitfalls that derail their journey.We also cover the importance of posing, what separates great posers from average ones, and how small details—like confidence, fluidity, and breathing—can make or break a competitor’s stage presence. Lina explains why posing should be treated as a skill developed year-round, not just something practiced before a show.Beyond competing, we tackle body image struggles, disordered eating patterns, and the emotional highs and lows that come with extreme dieting and physique changes. Lina offers practical strategies to develop a healthy relationship with food and training, emphasizing why a sustainable mindset is key to longevity in the sport.If you’re an athlete struggling with self-doubt, stress, or mindset hurdles, this episode is packed with insights to help you navigate the mental game of bodybuilding and elevate your performance.Hope you enjoy it!The Atlas Podcast is available on: YouTube: bit.ly/AtlasPodcastYoutubeSpotify: bit.ly/AtlasPodcastSpotifyApple Podcast: bit.ly/AtlasPodcastApple Stay Connected: Team Atlas Website: www.teamatlasfitness.comJames Ayotte's Website: www.jamesayotte.com Team Atlas on Instagram: @teamatlasmtl &@teamatlaslifestyleJames on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/james.ayotte.79James on Instagram: @jamesxatlasAtlas Podcast on Instagram: @atlaspodcastxDiscount links: https://linktr.ee/Jamesayotte

    59 min
  3. 12/21/2024

    Atlas Podcast #24 | Chris Gurunlian & James Ayotte

    In this episode of The Atlas Podcast, I sit down with my long-time friend and renowned coach, Chris Gurunlian, to discuss the exciting new Fit Model division recently announced by Tyler Manion. We dive deep into the evolution of bodybuilding categories, exploring how this new division aims to provide a more attainable and entry-level option for aspiring competitors while growing the sport as a whole. Chris shares his personal journey, from skepticism to full support, reflecting on how new divisions like Men’s Physique and Wellness initially faced criticism but ultimately flourished. Together, we analyze the potential impact of the Fit Model category on the industry, from offering athletes a more mainstream look to its potential for attracting new talent and even drawing back retired competitors. We tackle some of the most pressing questions: Will this division hurt bikini? Does it lower the bar for competition? And how will it shape the future of bodybuilding? Chris and I also share strategies for athletes deciding whether to transition into this category and discuss the business opportunities it brings for coaches, posing specialists, and other industry professionals. If you’ve been curious about the Fit Model division or the ever-evolving landscape of bodybuilding, this episode is packed with insights, debates, and actionable advice for athletes at all levels. Don’t miss this in-depth conversation about the sport's future and how you can adapt to thrive. Enjoy! Stay Connected: Team Atlas Website: www.teamatlasfitness.com James Ayotte's Website: www.jamesayotte.com Team Atlas on Instagram: @teamatlasmtl & @teamatlaslifestyle James on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/james.ayotte.79 James on Instagram: @jamesxatlas Atlas Podcast on Instagram: @atlaspodcastx Discount links: https://linktr.ee/Jamesayotte

    1h 6m
  4. 12/03/2024

    Atlas Podcast #23 | Olympian Ariana Brothers & James Ayotte

    In this episode of The Atlas Podcast, I sit down with Bikini Olympia Champion Ariana Brothers to reflect on her post-Olympia thoughts and discuss what’s next in her competitive career. We dive into your questions, exploring topics like whether you should tell your coach if you’ve deviated from your plan, how to determine if you’re truly ready to compete, and when postponing a show might be the better option. Ariana and I highlight the importance of honesty in the coach-athlete relationship, explaining how withholding details—like untracked refeeds—can disrupt your prep and compromise your results. We also address the challenges athletes face as they progress in the sport, sharing how we build trust with new clients and set clear expectations. Ariana offers a glimpse into her new posing business, emphasizing its value for competitors looking to refine their stage presence and stand out. This episode is packed with actionable insights on prep, peaking, and posing, providing an in-depth look at what it takes to thrive at the highest level. Don’t miss this honest and informative conversation with one of the sport’s elite athletes! The Atlas Podcast is available on: YouTube: bit.ly/AtlasPodcastYoutube Spotify: bit.ly/AtlasPodcastSpotify Apple Podcast: bit.ly/AtlasPodcastApple Google Podcast: bit.ly/AtlasPodcastGoogle Stay Connected: Team Atlas Website: www.teamatlasfitness.com James Ayotte's Website: www.jamesayotte.com Team Atlas on Instagram: @teamatlasmtl & @teamatlaslifestyle James on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/james.ayotte... James on Instagram: @jamesxatlas Atlas Podcast on Instagram: @atlaspodcastx Discount links: https://linktr.ee/Jamesayotte

    1h 22m

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
7 Ratings

About

Hosted by James Ayotte, the head coach of Team Atlas, ”The Atlas Podcast” offers an exclusive look into the realm of Bikini Olympian & IFBB Pro coaching. James, a world renowned bikini coach, delves deep into the intricacies of training, mindset, competition, and what it takes to achieve the pinnacle of success in the world of bodybuilding. Whether you’re an aspiring competitor, a seasoned pro, or just curious about the behind-the-scenes of the IFBB Pro coaching world, tune in to the "Atlas Podcast” for valuable insights, stories, and expert advice.

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