Confessions of a Bikini Pro

Celeste Rains-Turk
  • 4.8 (322)
  • Fitness
  • Updated Weekly

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! Make sure to rate, review, and subscribe so you never miss an episode!

  1. Sep 11

    Bipolar Disorder & Mental Health Advocacy- A feature episode with Fit model Pro Andria Brown

    This podcast episode featured Celeste and Andria discussing Andria's recent mental health crisis and hospitalization due to a manic episode related to her bipolar disorder. Andria shared how she experienced symptoms including insomnia, rapid speech, and loss of control, but was initially dismissed by healthcare providers who told her she wasn't "crazy enough" for a bipolar diagnosis. After seven days of escalating symptoms, she was hospitalized where she received proper treatment and was prescribed mood stabilizers, which she described as life-changing. Celeste, who has bipolar disorder type 2, provided professional insights about diagnosis processes, medication management, and the importance of advocating for oneself in mental health treatment. They discussed how bipolar disorder can present with both manic and depressive episodes, the challenges of managing medication while bodybuilding, and the stigma surrounding mental health conditions. The conversation emphasized that proper treatment and medication can significantly improve quality of life, though recovery is a ongoing journey that requires patience and self-compassion. Bipolar Disorder Diagnosis Experience Andria shared her experience with a manic episode that led to hospitalization, describing how she initially sought help from doctors who dismissed her concerns about bipolar disorder. Celeste, who has bipolar disorder herself, explained the differences between bipolar one and bipolar two, noting that Andria's experience with a full manic episode fits the diagnosis of bipolar one. Celeste also shared her own experience of how starting antidepressant medication triggered her hypomanic symptoms, which led to her bipolar diagnosis. Healthcare System Access Challenges Andria discussed feeling let down by the healthcare system when she was unable to get timely psychiatric care despite experiencing manic episodes and seeking help from doctors. She explained that while she received a psychiatric referral, she faced a 90-day wait time for appointments, which proved too late as she had already had a manic episode. Andria noted that being on a mood stabilizer has been life-changing for her, and she is now focusing on stabilizing other aspects of her life to address her mental health needs. Bipolar Disorder Experience Sharing Celeste and Andria discussed their experiences with bipolar disorder, sharing how they initially struggled to recognize and seek help for their condition due to societal misconceptions about how someone with bipolar should behave. Andria emphasized that bipolar is more common than people realize and can lead to brain damage and other serious health issues. Both women described how they had to recalibrate their motivation and approach to life after experiencing the negative effects of untreated bipolar, with Celeste noting that learning about family history helped her recognize the genetic component of the disorder and seek proper treatment. Bipolar Disorder Diagnosis Approaches Andria shared her experience of struggling with bipolar disorder from ages 18 to 23, describing how she "white knuckled" through manic episodes by telling herself she could manage the next day, but eventually needed hospitalization. Celeste discussed therapeutic approaches to diagnosis, explaining that therapists often start with the "least restrictive" diagnosis that allows for broad treatment options before narrowing down specific conditions. Celeste emphasized that diagnoses should focus on treatment rather than identity, noting that the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM) criteria can sometimes prioritize statistics over individual symptoms and experiences. Mental Health Advocacy Discussion Celeste and Andria discussed the importance of advocating for oneself in mental health care, emphasizing that diagnoses can take time and encouraging individuals to persist in seeking appropriate treatment. Andria shared her personal experience with PTSD and depression, highlighting how she initially attributed symptoms to her existing diagnoses without seeking help from a psychiatrist. Both speakers stressed the value of seeking higher-level care, getting second opinions, and recognizing when additional support is needed, with Celeste noting that there is no shame in struggling with mental health challenges in today's demanding world. Bodybuilding Lifestyle and Mental Health Celeste and Andria discussed the importance of evaluating the sustainability of a bodybuilding lifestyle and addressing mental health challenges, including the impact of diagnoses and medication. Andria emphasized the value of seeking support, being vulnerable, and considering second opinions when dealing with health professionals. Celeste shared her experience with medication and its side effects, highlighting the need for careful monitoring and open communication with healthcare providers. Mental Health in Bodybuilding Celeste and Andria discussed the challenges of managing mental health while pursuing competitive bodybuilding. Andria shared her personal experience with bipolar disorder, including struggles with medication side effects and the decision to withdraw from fall competitions to prioritize her health. They explored how mental health stigma can create barriers to seeking help, with Andria emphasizing the importance of taking practical steps toward treatment rather than dismissing symptoms as "dramatic." The conversation highlighted how mental health treatment can have unexpected positive effects, like improved digestion, while acknowledging that recovery is a ongoing journey. 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

    Bipolar Disorder & Mental Health Advocacy- A feature episode with Fit model Pro Andria Brown

  2. Sep 4

    SAMI CLEMENTS; Champion Habits, Motherhood with Bodybuilding, Your Best Can Vary

    Today's guest, IFBB Fit Model Pro Sami Clements, has spent more than a decade immersed in the fitness industry not only as an athlete, but as a coach, mentor, business owner, and mom. She began her career as an elementary school teacher while simultaneously building her career in fitness, eventually making the transition into coaching full-time. Today, she serves as the COO of Team Fitbliss and has spent years coaching women through lifestyle changes, competition prep, and pregnancy and postpartum. Her own bodybuilding journey began in 2016 in bikini, where she competed across several seasons while also navigating some of the biggest transitions of her life including becoming a mother. After stepping away from the stage following her final bikini season in 2022, she eventually found her way back when the Fit Model division was introduced. In 2025, she jumped back into competition and worked her way through an incredibly busy season competing across regional and national stages before ultimately earning her IFBB Pro Card in fit model at Masters Nationals. But I think what makes her story especially interesting isn't the placings or the Pro Card It's the perspective she's developed through years of competing and coaching I'm excited to get into with her today     Quick recap The episode featured a conversation between Celeste and Sami, focusing on Sami's journey in the fitness industry, her transition from bikini to fit model divisions, and her experiences as a competitor, coach, and mother. Sami shared insights into her motivations for competing, the importance of enjoying the process over focusing solely on placings, and how motherhood has influenced her approach to bodybuilding. She discussed the challenges and rewards of balancing family, work, and competition, emphasizing the value of sustainability, flexibility, and grace in both training and life. Sami also reflected on her recent success in earning her pro card in fit model, the emotions tied to that achievement, and her plans for future growth in the sport. The conversation highlighted the significance of mindset, support systems, and the lifestyle habits that contribute to long-term success and fulfillment in bodybuilding. Fitness Competitor Interview Insights Celeste interviewed Sammy Clements, who has over a decade of experience in the fitness industry as an athlete, coach, and mother. Sammy discussed her pre-stage routine, emphasizing the importance of letting her "light shine" and channeling the hard work and passion she puts into competing. She noted the difference in atmosphere between pre-judging and finals, explaining that after pre-judging, competitors become more relaxed and enjoy the experience more. Bodybuilding Competition Journey Begin Sami began competing in 2016 after hiring a bodybuilding coach who had helped a friend transform her body. She initially had no interest in competing but decided to take on the challenge as a way to push herself out of her comfort zone. After placing 5th in her first competition, Sami fell in love with the experience and found the motivation to continue competing. Bodybuilding Mindset and Competition Celeste and Sami discussed the mindset required for bodybuilding, emphasizing the importance of loving the process over focusing solely on placings. Sami explained how understanding the competitive nature of the sport helps shift focus to personal improvement rather than outcomes. They explored why some competitors become overly focused on results, attributing it to expectations from linear success in other areas and the difficulty of competing against more experienced athletes. The conversation concluded with Celeste asking Sami for perspective on knowing when to push harder versus when to pull back and reevaluate. Competitive Season Reevaluation Signs Sami discussed the signs that indicate it's time to reevaluate a competitive season, including when training becomes detrimental to daily life, hormonal disruptions occur, or when the process stops being enjoyable. She shared her personal experience from 2017-2018 when she continued competing despite physical and mental warning signs, which resulted in an unsatisfying experience on stage. Sami emphasized the importance of considering whether one can accept potential outcomes, including the possibility of not winning, when deciding whether to continue competing in additional shows. Bodybuilding Competition Journey Discussion Sami discussed her competitive journey in bodybuilding, reflecting on her performance at various shows including North Americans, Ben Wheater, and Nationals. She explained her strategic approach to choosing which shows to compete in, including deciding to attend NPC Universe to get feedback from judge Tyler, who had previously given her feedback at Nationals. Sami shared that Tyler's feedback at Universe was positive, suggesting she improve her front pose shape, which she was able to implement before her next competition. Fit Model Competition Benefits Sami discussed the benefits of competing in fit model compared to bikini competition, noting that fit model allows for a higher body fat percentage which is more sustainable over time. She explained that as a natural athlete, the fit model category better suits her goals and lifestyle, allowing her to maintain her cycle and make the competition more sustainable without resorting to performance-enhancing drugs. Sami credited her supportive husband and established fitness habits for helping her maintain this lifestyle, particularly given her responsibilities as a mother of three children. Athlete Transition and Habit Development Sami and Celeste discussed the challenges athletes face when transitioning between being in and out of preparation mode for competitions. Sami emphasized the importance of developing healthy habits outside of prep to make the transition easier, noting that athletes who view these habits as beneficial to their daily life rather than just for competition tend to maintain them more successfully. Celeste agreed, adding that helping athletes understand the broader benefits of these habits beyond just competition performance is crucial for long-term success. Sami's Teaching to Coaching Transition Celeste and Sami discussed Sami's transition from teaching to full-time coaching. Sami explained that she taught 3rd and 5th grade while also coaching in the evenings and early mornings, but her decision to fully commit to coaching was influenced by the birth of her first son in 2018, which provided the flexibility to focus more on her growing coaching business. Sami expressed that becoming a mother allowed her to pursue her passion for coaching while being present with her children, a decision she has not regretted. Postpartum Bodybuilding Competition Experience Sami shared her experience of competing in bodybuilding while pregnant and postpartum, explaining how she initially felt pressure to maintain her fitness identity as a coach but now advises others not to rush their postpartum recovery. She competed 14 months postpartum with her first son and later included her husband in a competition, though noted the different challenges they faced due to their different preparation needs. Sami emphasized that postpartum recovery is an all-consuming phase that feels permanent in the moment but passes quickly, and she has learned to be more present during this time rather than pushing herself to return to fitness too soon. Motherhood and Bodybuilding Perspective Sami discussed how motherhood changed her approach to bodybuilding and competition, emphasizing the importance of flexibility and prioritizing family over strict routines. She shared that being a mom taught her to be more adaptable and that competing should enhance her life rather than be a drain. Sami also explained how she coaches clients through challenging times by encouraging them to focus on their best effort given the circumstances, rather than perfection, and stressed the importance of realistic goals that clients can actually maintain. Balancing Motherhood and Bodybuilding Sami discussed balancing her roles as a mother and professional bodybuilder, explaining how prioritizing self-care ultimately benefits her family. She described her current work routine with FitBliss, which includes dedicated client check-ins, training programming, and team meetings, while maintaining a separate morning routine for her own fitness needs. Sami emphasized the importance of setting a balanced example for her children by being fully present in both her professional and personal life. Pro Card Journey and Advice Sami shared her journey to achieving her pro card at the Masters Nats competition, where she placed first after previously earning second place at Pittsburgh and Universe shows. She explained her decision to take a break before competing on the pro stage, wanting to enjoy her win and focus on balance rather than rushing into pro competition. Sami advised aspiring competitors to focus on enjoying the process and building relationships along the way rather than just chasing a pro card, and she provided her contact information for those interested in following her journey or coaching services. CONNECT WITH SAMI: INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/sami.g.fit/ WEBSITE WITH ALL LINKS: https://linktr.ee/sami.g.fit CONNECT WITH CELESTE: Website:http://www.celestial.fit Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/celestial_fit/ All Links:http://www.celestial.fit/links.html

    SAMI CLEMENTS; Champion Habits, Motherhood with Bodybuilding, Your Best Can Vary

  3. Aug 28

    JENNIFER CAPOZZI; 5 Years of 'Almost', Appreciate Your People, Vision, Bodybuilding is Self-Care

    Today's guest is Jennifer Capozzi, an IFBB Bikini Pro, wife, mom of two, certified personal trainer, and Bombshell Fitness coach who has been coaching for more than 13 years. Originally from Queens, New York, she now calls the East End of Long Island home. Fitness has been a constant throughout her life, and she has built a career around helping both everyday women and competitive athletes become stronger, build muscle, and create sustainable lifestyles. Her competitive bodybuilding journey began more than a decade ago at the 2013 Brooklyn Grand Prix, and she has competed extensively across the NPC, including numerous Masters and Open competitions never placing out of top 5. After years of competing, multiple national-level placings, and coming close to the top of her divisions, she ultimately earned her IFBB Pro Card at the 2024 Masters Nationals in Pittsburgh, winning the Masters 40+ division. She made her professional debut in 2025 at the GRL PWR Pro, competing in Masters 40+. She is passionate about bodybuilding as an art form and believes that strength, discipline, and consistency can help women build not only their physiques, but also their confidence.   QUICK RECAP: The episode featured a conversation between Celeste and IFBB Bikini Pro Jennifer Capozzi, who shared her journey from starting bodybuilding in 2013 to earning her pro card in 2024. Jennifer discussed the challenges of balancing competition with motherhood, the evolution of the bikini division, and the importance of discipline and consistency. She emphasized the role of support systems, communication, and self-talk in overcoming doubts and achieving long-term goals. Jennifer also spoke about her coaching philosophy, which focuses on listening and meeting clients where they are, and encouraged women to pursue competition if they feel the calling. The conversation covered her experiences backstage, the changes in the sport, and her future aspirations, including competing at the Masters Olympia.   Celeste interviewed Jennifer Capozzi, an IFBB Bikini Pro and personal trainer, discussing her competitive bodybuilding journey spanning over a decade. Jennifer shared her pre-stage routine, which involves breathwork to manage nerves and focus on the hard work already completed. She explained how her approach to competition has evolved over time, learning to transform anxiety into positive energy and use feedback from placements to drive continuous improvement rather than get discouraged by consistent second-place finishes. Jennifer's Bodybuilding Journey Jennifer discussed how she discovered bodybuilding after growing up in a very active family with three brothers, where she was the only girl and participated in all their sports and activities. She began bodybuilding in 2013 after her brother-in-law, an Olympic and IFBB pro bodybuilder, encouraged her to try it, and she won her first show, which motivated her to continue. Jennifer managed to balance training with being a mother of two young children by preparing family meals together and incorporating healthy eating habits for everyone. Bodybuilding Division Evolution Discussion Jennifer discussed the evolution of bodybuilding, particularly in the bikini division, noting how competitors have become larger over time. She explained how the introduction of the Fit Model division created more opportunities for athletes, allowing them to focus on building muscle while maintaining an artistic approach without the extreme demands of traditional bikini competition. Jennifer emphasized that both divisions require significant dedication and commitment, with the goal of continuous improvement rather than maintaining a specific body standard. Competitor's Journey to Professional Success Jennifer shared her journey from her first nervous competition to becoming a professional competitor, describing how she overcame initial anxiety and developed discipline through structured training and diet. She explained that seeing herself on stage successfully motivated her to pursue professional competition, and she eventually joined the Bombshell team where she now coaches others. Jennifer described her personal mission as helping women find their strength and voice while balancing life responsibilities, noting how her own journey has prepared her to mentor other competitors. Balancing Bodybuilding with Motherhood Jennifer discussed her journey balancing bodybuilding with motherhood, emphasizing the importance of communication and support from her family. She shared how she overcame initial mom guilt by explaining her passion to her children and husband, who accommodated her schedule by planning around her competitions and providing emotional support. Jennifer noted that her children now understand the dedication required in competitive sports through their own dance training, which involves similar time commitments and physical demands. Bodybuilding Family Support Discussion Jennifer discussed how her daughters help with posing and guidance during her bodybuilding competitions, though they sometimes get frustrated when she doesn't pick up techniques as quickly as they do. She explained that her daughters specialize in lyrical and contemporary dance rather than ballet or tap. Jennifer also shared that her husband has been a strong support throughout their 22-year marriage, helping with meal preparation and maintaining open communication, which they both consider essential for their relationship. Managing Competitive Goals Strategically Jennifer discussed strategies for managing social relationships while pursuing a competitive goal, emphasizing the importance of clear communication with supportive friends and family about her vision. She advised finding alternative social activities beyond traditional dining and drinking, and suggested focusing on appreciation rather than demanding more sacrifices from loved ones. Jennifer also shared her approach to overcoming doubts and emotional exhaustion during her long-term competitive efforts, describing how morning self-talk and meditation helped her maintain motivation and focus on her goals. Bodybuilding Life Skills Transfer Celeste and Jennifer discussed how the discipline and structure developed through bodybuilding transfers to other areas of life, including work and parenting. Jennifer explained how maintaining routines and proper nutrition has helped her children excel in activities like dance and school. They also discussed how bodybuilding taught Jennifer the importance of patience and proper nutrition, which she applies to daily life and considers a form of self-care. Bodybuilding Competition Experience Jennifer described her experience winning a pro card at a bodybuilding competition in Pittsburgh, where she was called out on stage multiple times and ultimately achieved her goal. After winning her pro card, she competed in the Girl Power show where she placed 8th, receiving feedback to come back bigger. Jennifer expressed interest in competing at the Girl Power show again in 2027, citing the all-female atmosphere, supportive team environment, and positive experience at the Orlando venue as reasons for wanting to return. Pro Competition Training and Goals Jennifer shared her experience transitioning from amateur to professional competition, describing how the longer stage time in the pro division allowed her to enjoy the moment more and connect with judges. She outlined her current training approach with Jessica, focusing on a 5-day split routine and consistent nutrition, while working to develop her glutes and shoulders for future bikini competition success. Jennifer expressed her long-term goal of qualifying for the Masters Olympia and her passion for coaching other women toward their fitness and competition goals, emphasizing the importance of building daily habits and mental toughness. Competitor Challenges and Coaching Strategies Jennifer discussed the challenges competitors face, particularly issues with family support and making excuses to avoid following through with their fitness goals. She emphasized the importance of maintaining some structure and discipline, even if it's just 10 minutes of activity. Jennifer identified listening as the key difference between good and great coaching, and shared her approach to having difficult conversations with clients about realistic goals and timelines. Aspiring Competitors Coaching Advice Jennifer shared advice for aspiring competitors, emphasizing the importance of following through on visions, finding a good coach, and starting with local competitions. She discussed her preference for training core and glutes, and mentioned her memorable first competition and pro win experience. Jennifer also provided her social media handles for people to connect with her and learn more about her coaching services. CONNECT WITH JENNIFER: INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/jennifercapozzi_ifbbpro/?hl=en WEBSITE WITH ALL LINKS: https://linktr.ee/Jenncapozzi CONNECT WITH CELESTE: Website:http://www.celestial.fit Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/celestial_fit/ All Links:http://www.celestial.fit/links.htm

    JENNIFER CAPOZZI; 5 Years of 'Almost', Appreciate Your People, Vision, Bodybuilding is Self-Care

  4. Aug 22

    RAGAN COLLINS; Coaching Red Flags, Hard Personal Lessons, Binge Eating Struggles

    Today's guest is Ragan Collins, an ex collegiate volleyball player turned IFBB Bikini Pro who was born and raised in North Carolina but currently lives in California with her husband as not just a military spouse but also , online coach, and dog mom of two who has had an incredible path in this sport. She stepped onstage for the very first time in April 2024 after a short prep that included a coaching switch and there she swept the whole show winning True Novice, Novice, Open, and the Overall. After taking an offseason, she returned to the stage in 2025, winning her height class at her local show before heading to Junior Nationals where, in only her third time ever competing and first ever national show, she won her IFBB Pro Card. She now runs her online lifestyle coaching business, Fuel For Fitness, where she helps others pursue their own health and fitness goals while continuing to navigate her own journey as an athlete.     Ragan's Athletic Journey Transition Ragan discussed her current lifestyle, including traveling and spending time with family while maintaining her health goals. She shared her pre-stage routine, which involves chatting with other competitors to calm nerves and saying a quick prayer. Ragan explained her transition from competitive swimming to volleyball in high school and college, and how she eventually moved into bodybuilding after retiring from volleyball due to ankle injuries. Bodybuilding Competition Preparation Journey Ragan shared their journey into weightlifting and bodybuilding, starting with a goal to bench press their body weight and eventually transitioning to competitive bodybuilding under a coach's guidance. They described their first preparation for a competition, which began in January 2024 with a short 10-12 week prep leading up to an April show. Ragan explained the significant calorie and diet changes they experienced during the preparation process, including the challenges of adjusting to a much lower calorie intake and dealing with brain fog while working full-time. Bodybuilding Coaching Challenges and Solutions Ragan shared her experience of struggling during bodybuilding prep with her original coach, who provided inadequate support and failed to address her concerns. She ultimately switched coaches after reaching out to a contact in the fitness industry, and with her new coach Sammy, was able to reverse some progress and learn bikini posing in just 6 weeks before winning her show. Ragan identified several red flags in coaching relationships, including coaches not respecting natural competition boundaries, not providing safe spaces for discussion, and not being knowledgeable about what constitutes natural competition rules. Bodybuilding Competition Experience Discussion Ragan discussed her experience competing in bodybuilding, describing how she unexpectedly won her first show despite initial concerns about finishing last. She explained that after her first competition, she took time off to heal her hormones and remove her IUD before starting her next prep in February 2025. Ragan shared that her first reverse dieting phase was challenging due to binging issues and unexpected physical symptoms like hair loss, though she found the process of gaining weight back difficult and awkward, particularly the initial post-show phase before regaining feminine curves. Bodybuilding Preparation Challenges Ragan discussed her challenging experience with bodybuilding preparation, particularly the mental and physical demands of getting leaner for competitions. She shared how she had to drop 6 pounds within two weeks before Junior Nats and described struggling with food cravings during the off-season. Ragan acknowledged learning important lessons about social media's impact on her mental state during preparation, particularly about avoiding food-related content on Instagram, which she plans to avoid in future preparations. Competition Lessons and Health Insights Ragan discussed lessons learned from her competition experience, including the need to avoid food-focused social media and better menu planning. She identified issues with overeating post-show and how this contributed to binge eating challenges. Ragan also shared her experience with hormonal changes related to endometriosis and removing her Mirena IUD, noting how this affected her menstrual cycle after competition. Bodybuilding and Mental Health Challenges Ragan discussed her experience with hormone fluctuations and mental health challenges during her bodybuilding preparation, including losing her period for over a year and struggling with a negative mental headspace. She expressed regret about being selfish during the preparation period while her mother was diagnosed with stage 4 metastatic breast cancer, questioning whether bodybuilding was the right sport for her. Ragan concluded that she wants to prioritize family and friends in future preparations, committing to self-evaluate regularly to ensure the sport doesn't interfere with important life moments. Bodybuilding Preparation and Mental Approach Ragan discussed her experience with bodybuilding preparation and competition, sharing how she plans to better balance her training with other life commitments by waking up earlier and making schedule adjustments. She reflected on earning her pro card at her third show and the subsequent imposter syndrome that developed, particularly after hearing comments about her small class size being insufficient for a legitimate pro card. Ragan acknowledged how external opinions and self-doubt affected her mental state during the post-show period, and she expressed determination to improve her mental approach for future preparations by not letting outside opinions impact her confidence. Ragan's Figure Competition Transition Celeste and Ragan discussed Ragan's transition into figure wellness competition, with Ragan revealing she hadn't researched the division before competing but had gained perspective through local posing seminars and observing other competitors at her gym. Ragan explained that after her first season, she began following other competitors on social media and building connections within the bodybuilding community, particularly through her gym in Oklahoma which had a strong bodybuilding presence. Ragan described how bodybuilding provided her with routine and stability during her frequent relocations due to her husband's military service, allowing her to maintain control over one aspect of her life despite the uncertainty of constant moving. Fuel for Fitness Business Interview Celeste interviewed Ragan about her fitness business Fuel for Fitness, which Ragan started in August 2025 after transitioning from social work to fitness coaching. Ragan explained how her background in psychology led her to pursue social work, but she became disillusioned with the field and found her passion for helping people through fitness coaching after completing her personal training certification. Ragan currently teaches group fitness and provides online coaching, with one of her earliest clients inspiring her to start the business, and she noted that her personal experiences with food relationships make her more relatable as a coach. Ragan's Training and Location Insights Celeste and Ragan discussed Ragan's experience living between North Carolina and California, with Ragan expressing love for both locations while noting the high costs in California. Ragan shared that her favorite gym is Stoic in California due to its supportive community and experienced ownership. When asked about alternative sports, Ragan expressed interest in future powerlifting competition or marathon running. Ragan provided advice for new competitors, emphasizing not to compare themselves to others on social media and to ask questions of their coaches, while also cautioning against comparing timelines to others' progress in the sport. CONNECT WITH RAGAN: INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/ragansfitness_fuel/ WORK W/ RAGAN CONNECT WITH CELESTE: Website:http://www.celestial.fit Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/celestial_fit/ All Links:http://www.celestial.fit/links.html

    RAGAN COLLINS; Coaching Red Flags, Hard Personal Lessons, Binge Eating Struggles

  5. Jul 24

    MORGAN ROEHLK; Pro Card Win to Top 5 Pro Debut, Undefeated Amateur, Reverse Dieting struggles, Sit Back and Get Better, Delusional Belief

    The podcast episode featured Morgan Roehlk, a newly crowned IFBB bikini pro, discussing her journey in bodybuilding. Morgan shared her transition from competing in wellness in 2021 to taking a break and then returning to the stage in the bikini division, where she won her pro card at Junior Nationals and placed fifth in her pro debut. She spoke about the challenges of balancing bodybuilding with her career in finance, motherhood, and relationships, emphasizing the importance of support from her partner and coaches. Morgan also discussed her struggles with mindset, imposter syndrome, and the reverse dieting process, highlighting the emotional toll and her efforts to improve communication with her coach. She reflected on the divine timing and signs she experienced during her successful season and offered advice for aspiring competitors, stressing the importance of belief in oneself and seeking help from professionals.   Competitive Fitness Journey Discussion Morgan discussed her journey in competitive fitness, starting with her first competition in 2021 in the wellness division and taking a break for several years before returning with lifestyle coaching in preparation for an EDM festival. She shared how she developed a mantra for nationals and a pro show, focusing on embodying a pro mindset rather than running through technical cues in her head. Morgan described how her approach evolved from focusing on specific movements to trusting her muscle memory and belief, which she credited with helping her perform well at recent competitions. Bikini Competition Journey Transition Morgan discussed her transition from wellness to bikini competition, including her successful performance at the Whitney show where she won overall and qualified for nationals. After feeling mentally tapped out and questioning her readiness for a national stage, Morgan took time off to grow and reflect on her goals. She eventually returned to training with new coach Corey Lindner and prepared for Junior Nationals in June, working through challenges and difficult conversations with her coaches about her commitment to the sport. Bodybuilding and Family Life Balance Morgan discussed the challenges of balancing bodybuilding with family life, particularly during the holiday season when she wanted to enjoy treats and activities with her 8-year-old son while maintaining her diet and training schedule. She explained how competing in bodybuilding shows affected her ability to participate fully in family activities, including missing out on sharing food with her son during prep periods. Morgan shared a touching story about her son's pride in watching her compete at a Whitney Jones show in 2021, where he was enthusiastic and supportive from the audience. Reverse Process Challenges Discussion Morgan discussed her ongoing challenges with the reverse process after completing a show, noting that she struggled with the structured approach and found it more difficult than expected. She revealed that she had hidden her struggles from her coach Lauren after a previous show, feeling embarrassed about not meeting expectations despite her success. Morgan explained that she has been more open with communication this time around, sending voice notes to Lauren about her struggles rather than avoiding check-ins, which has helped reduce her anxiety. Athlete's Eating Disorder Discussion Celeste and Morgan discussed the emotional challenges Morgan faces with her eating disorder and athletic identity. Morgan shared her struggle with feeling trapped in an "all-or-nothing" mindset and the guilt that comes from not meeting her self-imposed standards as a bikini pro. Celeste encouraged Morgan by sharing her own experience of overcoming similar issues and emphasized the importance of finding a healthier approach. Morgan expressed interest in seeking help through Celeste's program and acknowledged the courage it takes for athletes to discuss these struggles openly. Bodybuilding and Mental Health Challenges Morgan and Celeste discussed the challenges of bodybuilding and mental health, particularly around eating disorders and the stigma associated with struggling in the fitness industry. Morgan shared her personal experiences of connecting with a teammate who understands similar struggles, and how she has improved her mindset and preparation for competitions over time. They also discussed the importance of seeking help and support, as well as the role of discipline and self-belief in overcoming challenges in bodybuilding. Bodybuilding Transition Journey Morgan discussed her transition from competitive cheerleading to bodybuilding, starting with a personal trainer in 2020 after a back injury ended her cheer career. She began competing in wellness competitions in July 2021 after hiring coach Zach Lamor, having discovered bodybuilding through Instagram and seeking one-on-one coaching rather than group training. Morgan reflected that her recent prep would have been more beneficial if she had started with the intention of competing rather than preparing for a lifestyle-focused music festival, as the shift in mindset from a fun festival prep to competitive pressure created self-doubt during the seven-week preparation period. Morgan's Mental Health and Competition Morgan discussed her improved mental health and preparation approach leading up to Nationals, noting how her mindset had significantly changed from previous competitions. She explained how work demands and life balance had historically impacted her fitness routine, describing how she cycles between periods of intense focus on bodybuilding and times when other priorities take precedence. Morgan expressed her excitement about earning her first Olympia point and discussed future goals, including potentially competing at the Olympia next season. Pro Bikini Competition Experience Share Morgan shared her experience winning both her class and the overall at her first Pro Bikini Show, which happened immediately after winning her Junior National Pro Card. She explained how she decided to compete in the Pro Show to get feedback from judges and coaches, particularly Sandy who was judging the event. Despite achieving impressive results, including finishing in the top 6 alongside experienced Olympians, Morgan decided to cap her competitive season there rather than pursuing immediate Olympia qualification, as she felt her physique needed further development, particularly in upper-outer glutes. Bodybuilding Life Skills and Journey Morgan shared how bodybuilding taught her valuable life skills like prioritization and multitasking, which helped her manage her career as a mortgage loan processor and personal life. She discussed how having a supportive boyfriend who understood the bodybuilding lifestyle was crucial during her preparation for competitions. Morgan also described experiencing what she interpreted as divine signs and synchronicities during her journey to earning a pro card, including specific number sequences that gave her confidence about her path. She advised aspiring competitors to believe in themselves despite doubts and to seek guidance from multiple professionals, while those on the road to pro should continue building their support network and staying open to help from others in the community.   CONNECT WITH MORGAN: INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/morgan.roehlk/ CONNECT WITH CELESTE: Website:http://www.celestial.fit Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/celestial_fit/ All Links:http://www.celestial.fit/links.ht

    MORGAN ROEHLK; Pro Card Win to Top 5 Pro Debut, Undefeated Amateur, Reverse Dieting struggles, Sit Back and Get Better, Delusional Belief

  6. Jul 10

    FELICIA CHANG- Fit Model Pro; How Can I Make this Sustainable?, Musical Theater to Bodybuilding, Loving Support

    FELICIA CHANG- Fit Model Pro; How Can I Make this Sustainable?, Musical Theater to Bodybuilding, Loving Support Today's guest is one of the newest IFBB Fit Model Pros, and her story is such a great reminder that sometimes one random moment can completely change the direction of your life. As a college student majoring in musical theatre, she wasn't even sure what path she wanted to take. Then one day, while scrolling Instagram with her roommate, she stumbled across bodybuilding—and thought, "I want to do that." What started as curiosity quickly became a passion that transformed her discipline, confidence, community, and ultimately her career. She went on to earn her IFBB Pro card by winning the overall at NPC JR USAs before making her professional debut at the St. Pete Pro. Today we're talking about finding your passion unexpectedly, learning through both victories and setbacks, and why this most recent prep has felt so different from her very first one. Welcome to the show, Felicia Chang   Felicia's Personal Journey Felicia, one of the newest IFBB fit model pros, shared her journey from studying musical theater to discovering bodybuilding through Instagram, which led to her earning an IFBB Pro Card and winning the overall at the NPC USA Championships before making her Pro debut at the St. Pete Pro. The discussion focused on how a random moment changed Felicia's career direction and would explore themes of finding passion unexpectedly, learning from victories and setbacks, and why her most recent preparation was different. Bikini to Fit Model Transition Celeste interviewed Felicia Chang about her transition from bikini competitor to fit model. Felicia shared that after placing fifth in her first bikini show, she took a break and later successfully transitioned to fit model, where she found the expectations more manageable as it's a new division. Felicia explained that her coach initially thought she was too muscular for fit model but later confirmed she could compete in the division after a successful show in April. Bodybuilding Prep Experience Comparison Felicia discussed her experience comparing her first prep to her current prep, noting that her first prep was much more challenging as she had no prior training or knowledge about cutting. She explained that her current prep has been easier due to her increased knowledge and better understanding of how to train and maintain a deficit. Felicia also mentioned that her initial weight loss in February was achieved through a less structured approach, which helped set her up for success in her current prep. Bodybuilding Perceptions and Experiences Celeste and Felicia discussed Felicia's initial perceptions of bodybuilding and how they changed after seeing a post about Laura Lee. Felicia explained that she previously thought bodybuilding involved getting as big as possible without knowing about different divisions, but the post showed her a more elegant and beautiful version of the sport. They also discussed how Felicia's stage experience from musical theater may have helped her overcome stage fright in bodybuilding competitions. Career Transition to Bodybuilding Felicia discussed how her transition from musical theater to bodybuilding transformed her daily routine and sense of purpose. She explained that while she had been passionate about musical theater since childhood, attending a conservatory program at Carnegie Mellon made her realize it wasn't the right fit for her long-term career goals. After switching to a liberal arts program, Felicia found that her interest in pursuing musical theater professionally had diminished, leading her to discover bodybuilding as a new passion that consumed her attention and time, requiring an early morning schedule of 4 AM wake-ups and gym sessions. Bodybuilding and Life Balance Discussion Celeste and Felicia discussed Felicia's background in dance, particularly hip hop and musical theater, including her experience performing as Belle in Beauty and the Beast. Felicia shared how her approach to bodybuilding has evolved, moving from a highly meticulous first prep to a more intuitive and sustainable lifestyle that allows her to maintain better quality of life and enjoy activities like traveling with family. Both participants agreed on the importance of maintaining balance between competition goals and life experiences, with Celeste sharing her own experience of having a successful prep while getting married and traveling. Sustainable Fitness and Coaching Strategies Celeste and Felicia discussed sustainable fitness approaches and coaching strategies, with Felicia sharing how she helps clients maintain flexibility while traveling by encouraging estimated portion control and allowing treats rather than strict perfection. Felicia described her own competitive experience, noting she placed overall at Junior USA's but received feedback at St. Petersburg about being too bubbly and muscular in her posing, which she is now addressing by adjusting her approach for upcoming competitions. Competitive Posing Technique Adjustments Felicia discussed her adjustments to her physique and posing technique following feedback from the St. Petersburg competition, where she did not place as expected. She has lost about two pounds since the event and is refining her front and back poses to appear leaner and less glute-dominant, with positive feedback from her coach on a new front pose she practiced with Liz Trampas. Despite initial disappointment, Felicia recognized her strong physical presentation and is committed to making improvements for future competitions. Vancouver Show Prep Updates Felicia discussed her upcoming show in Vancouver in July and mentioned she's working with her coach on macros to come in slightly leaner. She shared how moving to Las Vegas in January has significantly improved her fitness journey by surrounding herself with a supportive bodybuilding community at Cult Fitness, where she trains alongside other competitors like Ashley Kay. Felicia noted that her husband has been very supportive, attending her shows and eating a similar diet, while also observing that she has developed better mental resilience during this prep compared to her previous competition. Bodybuilding Competition Success Story Felicia discussed her recent success in winning a pro card at a bodybuilding competition, describing the shock and joy of the moment. She shared how her supportive family, particularly her parents, have been instrumental in her bodybuilding journey, even attending shows and following her progress closely. Felicia expressed gratitude for the Colt Fitness community and offered advice to aspiring competitors, emphasizing the importance of hard work and maintaining a positive mindset regardless of results.   CONNECT WITH FELICIA: Websites: https://linktr.ee/feliciadabeast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/feliciathebeast/ CONNECT WITH CELESTE: Website:http://www.celestial.fit Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/celestial_fit/ All Links:http://www.celestial.fit/links.html

    FELICIA CHANG- Fit Model Pro; How Can I Make this Sustainable?, Musical Theater to Bodybuilding, Loving Support

  7. Jun 1

    WHITNEY WISER SAVAGE; Educating Competitors, Promoting Shows, Upcoming Events, Resilience After Abuse

    Today we are speaking with the founder of the first all female competition the Nashville fit show and the natural titans as well as a posing and prep coach, speaker, author, wife, and mother. She is a bikini Olympian with an incredible story triumphing over abuse after an ex attempted to run her over with his car and being told she wouldn't be able to continue bodybuilding to persisting, becoming a pro, and beating the odds. She also hosts awesome retreats with her style, as well as workshops and events and has some really cool experiences she is offering to the industry that have never been done before. Here to talk about all of that and more I Welcome to the show Whitney wiser savage how are you doing?!   Whitney's Personal Journey Whitney discussed surviving an abusive relationship and a devastating car accident that resulted in spinal injuries requiring emergency surgery and spinal fusion. Despite being told that returning to competition was unlikely, Whitney remained determined and eventually returned to the stage, earning an IFBB Pro card at the 2014 USA Championships and later qualifying for the Olympia. Whitney emphasized that setbacks and repeated near-misses ultimately provided valuable lessons that now help inform coaching and mentoring. Building the Nashville Fit Show Whitney explained how the idea for the first all-women's bodybuilding competition came from a vision to create a more comfortable and welcoming environment for female athletes. Support from the fitness community helped bring the concept to life, while event promotion also required navigating financial and operational challenges. Whitney highlighted the strong sense of community built through NPC Tennessee over many years of promoting events. The Fit Show Story Project Whitney shared details about the Fit Show Story Project, launched in 2020 to empower women through storytelling. Participants submit stories about overcoming adversity, finalists create video submissions, and a winner is selected based on impact and personal connection. The initiative continues to grow, with selected stories featured on the Nashville Fit Show website and plans for a special guest presenter at this year's award ceremony. Upcoming Events Fit Show Forum Workshop — June 27, 2026 The educational workshop is designed to help competitors prepare for the stage and will cover: Hair and makeup preparation Tanning guidance Judging criteria education Hands-on judging practice using scorecards Confidence-building support Mental health and post-show transition discussions Celeste is scheduled to speak on mental health, and additional experts, including a hypnotherapist, will contribute educational sessions. Nashville Fit Show Post-Show Brunch — August 16, 2026 A new post-show brunch will take place the day after the Nashville Fit Show and will focus on education and community. Topics include: Understanding judges' feedback Mental health discussions Nutrition guidance Networking opportunities Registration is expected to open June 1, 2026, with limited attendance available. Coaching, Posing, and Judging Insights Whitney discussed how posing standards and techniques have evolved over time, especially with the introduction of the Fit Model division. While more information is available than ever before, Whitney noted that not all guidance is accurate, making quality coaching and a solid understanding of official judging criteria increasingly important. Experience as a judge has also shaped the advice provided to athletes regarding posing and stage presentation. Motherhood and Work-Life Balance Whitney reflected on balancing entrepreneurship, fitness, and motherhood. Early years of parenting brought challenges that required adjusting fitness goals and expectations. Whitney emphasized the importance of self-compassion during those periods. Today, responsibilities are managed through long-term planning, prioritization, and maintaining focus on both family and business growth. Key Takeaways Resilience through adversity Learning from setbacks rather than fearing them Building supportive communities for women in fitness Using personal stories to inspire others Viewing every competition as a learning experience Prioritizing education, preparation, and long-term growth over short-term outcomes The overall message was that success comes from persistence, faith, continuous learning, and the willingness to keep moving forward despite obstacles.   CONNECT WITH WHITNEY: Websites: COME TO THE UPCOMING FORUM ON JUNE 27TH with Whitney and Celeste: https://wiserfit.mykajabi.com/fitshowforum2 NASHVILLE FIT SHOW: https://www.nashvillefitshow.com/ POST-SHOW BRUNCH: https://www.nashvillefitshow.com/nfsbrunch YOUTUBE COACHING: WISERPREP.COM POSING: https://wiser.fit/posing RETREATS: https://www.instagram.com/herstyleevents/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whitneywiserfit/ AND https://www.instagram.com/wiserprep/ CONNECT WITH CELESTE: Website:http://www.celestial.fit Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/celestial_fit/ All Links:http://www.celestial.fit/links.html

    WHITNEY WISER SAVAGE; Educating Competitors, Promoting Shows, Upcoming Events, Resilience After Abuse

  8. May 30

    JESSICA GONZALEZ; All Hope No Expectations, Turning Pro and Graduating, Consider This Before Competing

    JESSICA GONZALEZ; All Hope No Expectations, Turning Pro and Graduating, Consider This Before Competing Background & Competitive Success Jessica Gonzalez And Celeste discussed IFBB BIKINI PRO Jessica's rapid rise in bikini bodybuilding and the experience of becoming successful quickly in the sport. Within the first year of competing, Jessica earned a pro card, placed highly in multiple competitions, finished second at a pro debut, and competed at major shows including New York and Miami Pro. Jessica described the New York show as mentally challenging but ultimately valuable for growth and learning. Bodybuilding Journey Jessica explained that training had been consistent since age 15, but serious bodybuilding preparation began around 2020 after becoming more focused with guidance from Jessica's husband and coach. Jessica also shared that turning pro happened during the same weekend as graduating from nursing school. Mindset & Mental Resilience A major focus of the episode was mindset in a subjective sport. Jessica emphasized: Focusing on daily execution rather than outcomes Avoiding comparison on social media Accepting the subjective nature of judging Learning from setbacks instead of treating them as failures Maintaining confidence despite inconsistent feedback Balance Outside Bodybuilding Jessica repeatedly stressed the importance of maintaining balance outside the sport. Key themes included: Treating bodybuilding as a hobby rather than an entire identity Prioritizing relationships and personal life Avoiding financial instability for competition Taking proper off-seasons for long-term health Balancing prep alongside work as a nurse practitioner and business owner Jessica also discussed the financial realities of competing, including coaching costs, registration fees, travel, suits, and ongoing prep expenses. Career & Daily Routine Jessica currently works as a nurse practitioner providing weight loss injections, peptides, and IV therapy services. Jessica described a structured daily routine involving cardio, meal prep, client visits, and balancing business responsibilities with prep demands. Relationships & Coaching Dynamics The conversation included discussion about being coached by Jessica's husband while maintaining a healthy marriage. Topics included opposite schedules, prep stress, and balancing "coach mode" versus "partner mode." Pro vs Amateur Competition Experience Jessica noted that the professional bodybuilding environment felt more supportive and welcoming than the amateur scene. Jessica highlighted stronger camaraderie and mutual respect among professional competitors. Advice for Aspiring Competitors Jessica's advice centered around patience, authenticity, and long-term perspective. Main takeaways included: Competing for personal fulfillment Avoiding comparison to others Focusing on long-term progress Building a life outside bodybuilding Future Goals Discussed The episode also touched on future goals, including improving stage presence, focusing on glute development during the off-season, taking a longer recovery phase, and potentially returning for another conversation after the Olympia. CONNECT WITH JESSICA: https://www.instagram.com/jthepro_np/ coach: https://www.instagram.com/eddyjfitness/ CONNECT WITH CELESTE: Website:http://www.celestial.fit Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/celestial_fit/ All Links:http://www.celestial.fit/links.html

    JESSICA GONZALEZ; All Hope No Expectations, Turning Pro and Graduating, Consider This Before Competing
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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! Make sure to rate, review, and subscribe so you never miss an episode!

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