The Backstage Bikini Podcast

Got some feedback? Drop us a message! I'm back! I have missed you guys. In this episode we get into the knitty gritty of female health in bodybuilding and in particular we discuss the correlation between gut health and hormone dysfunction. I welcome founders of Balance and Body Diagnostics, Simone Maman and Angelica Lazic, who collectively have decades of experience in competitive and professional bodybuilding, functional health practice, functional diagnostics, nutrition and blood chemistry analysis. These ladies are powerhouses and combined, are pushing the diagnostic and functional health space forward in leaps and bounds. In this episode we discuss: - How Balance and Body Diagnostics came to be; their respective backgrounds and motives for creating a space for athletes to access a wide range of diagnostic labs to help better support performance and improve functional health; - Gut health basics, common misconceptions and personal experiences which poor gut health; - Implications of gut health in a prep and off season setting, how mistreatment of gut symptoms can cause further complications and mask the real bump in the road; - Symptoms in prep, can they be overlooked and why; - Correlation between gut health and hormone dysregulation, reversing symptoms and making your way back to better health; - Importance of alternative testing, is blood work enough; - Long term implications when it comes to misdiagnosis and mismanagement of your health; and so much more. We will be launching a brand new series so stay tuned for more in depth discussions, particularly in recognizing and raising common symptoms with your general practitioner. We want to armour every athlete with the information and tools to take autonomy over their health whilst competing at their very best. EXCLUSIVE GIVEAWAY Simone and Angelica have offered an exclusive competition for The Backstage Bikini Podcast audience to draw a free HTMR (Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis) for free!!! Winner will be announced on 19th March 2025 so stay tuned. Enter by following the link below: https://www.balanceandbodydiagnostics.ca/giveaway Post-show struggles like fatigue, weight rebound, stalled progress, bloating, mood swings, or hormonal chaos? Even if you’re following the “perfect” plan, your body might not be responding—because minerals run the show. The HTMA (Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis) isn’t just about testing for deficiencies. It’s about finding the right balance of minerals that control your metabolism, stress response, thyroid, digestion, hormones, and recovery. Why does this matter? Your minerals don’t work in isolation. It’s the ratios between them that determine how well your body functions. Calcium to Potassium impacts metabolism and thyroid function Sodium to Magnesium influences stress resilience and recovery Calcium to Phosphorus affects energy and nervous system function Zinc to Copper regulates hormones, immunity, and mood Sodium to Potassium plays a key role in adrenal function and hydration After contest prep, these ratios are often thrown off. The HTMA helps identify exactly where your body needs support, so we can optimize recovery, fix metabolic dysfunction, and get you back to feeling strong, lean, and energized. Follow: @BalanceandBodyDiagnostics on Youtube for their own independent podcast Make sure you keep up with the podcast on social media for previews and details about upcoming guest speakers. Instagram: @thebackstagebikinipodcast Host: @jadeleahegarty Available on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Youtube and Amazon Music.

Got some feedback? Drop us a message! This is a throwback episode which has been sat in the archives that we wanted to share. 12 months ago we were kindly invited to present at the Rock It Seminar in Manchester, UK. This episode is a recording of the full presentation Grace and Jade delivered on the day. We cover everything from our personal journeys, optimizing your experience as a bikini athlete, body dysmorphia, managing post show and so much more. We hope you enjoy this little bonus episode, live only on audio platforms. Make sure you keep up with the podcast on social media for previews and details about upcoming guest speakers. Instagram: @thebackstagebikinipodcast Host: @jadeleahegarty Available on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Youtube and Amazon Music.

Got some feedback? Drop us a message! In this episode we welcome Mandy Nugent, owner of Black Ice Bikinis. Having almost a decade's experience in creating bespoke bikinis for athletes competing at amateur and professional levels in the sport, we couldn't wait to pick her brains about curating the perfect stage. In this episode we cover: - Mandy's experience in the sport and the creation of Black Ice Bikinis; - The development of the stage look; what's changed and how has the design and presentation in the bikini class evolved over the years; - Getting your look right; colours, fits, considerations depending on the federation you chose to compete with, cross-federation tips and tricks when it comes to picking your suit; - Suit do's and don'ts; tips for budget management, second hand and rental suits and what to look out for if you are opting against a custom made suit; - Bikini care and how to prepare for an emergency; ...and so much more! If you are heading into your first season as a competitive athlete, or if you are looking to perfect your stage look, this one is worth a listen. Black Ice Bikinis are running a once a year sale between 15th November - 15th December, where you can save £75 off your custom bikini suit. Head to their website or drop the team a message and don't forget to let them know you listened to the podcast! https://blackicebikinis.com Keep up with Black Ice Bikinis and all of their incredible athletes on socials @blackicebikinis and @blackicealpha if you're looking for some custom made trunks. Make sure you keep up with the podcast on social media for previews and details about upcoming guest speakers. Instagram: @thebackstagebikinipodcast Host: @jadeleahegarty Available on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Youtube and Amazon Music.

Got some feedback? Drop us a message! Episode 60: this one is an emotional one and one we didn’t foresee. We wanted to share an important update with you all. An update we only felt was fair to share not only for the community we have around us both, but to recognise the journey, the growth and the transformation we have experienced over the two years we have committed to this platform. Grace has dedicated her all to the vision we had for this podcast and we wanted to celebrate everything she has contributed and everything she has to look forward to now. This is not the end, but a beautiful beginning for everyone involved. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you 🤍 Make sure you keep up with the podcast on social media for previews and details about upcoming guest speakers. Instagram: @thebackstagebikinipodcast Host: @jadeleahegarty Available on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Youtube and Amazon Music.

Got some feedback? Drop us a message! In this episode Jade takes on solo podcast to discuss our top Bikini Olympia predictions for this years Olympia. With Maureen and Jen now out of the Olympia, which is incredibly sad to see, we wanted to breakdown our thoughts in relation to what the top 5 placings may look like. We want to hear your predictions! Let us know your views, whether you agree or disagree with the thoughts, and let us know who your Miss Bikini Olympia 2024 champion is ahead of this weekend? As always these are our thoughts and views only and we have nothing but admiration for the ladies stepping on stage representing the standard of Bikini this year. We celebrate you all. Make sure you keep up with the podcast on social media for previews and details about upcoming guest speakers. Instagram: @thebackstagebikinipodcast Host: @jadeleahegarty Available on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Youtube and Amazon Music.

Got some feedback? Drop us a message! Episode 58 is live and we welcome UK IFBB Bikini Pro and Posing Coach, Leonie West to the mic. Leonie is someone we have followed for some time and her time and experience in the sport offered a unique perspective we couldn’t wait to get into. Leonie turned pro, not once but twice in two respective masters classes and as an older athlete, we wanted to hear her insight and experience having had the opportunity to observe the sport through her own career. She is also extremely transparent and grounded, both in relation to her own experience and how she views the sport and it was incredibly refreshing to hear her speak about her own journey. In this episode we discuss: - Leonie’s introduction to competitive bodybuilding and what motivated her to remain in the sport for such a long time; - Her experiences being coached vs self coaching; what obstacles does she face if any in both settings and what she has learned; - Competing as a masters athlete; considerations in relation to achieving her own version of the bikini criteria, hormonal factors, training and muscle maturity and more; - The importance of considering the future; what decisions Leonie has made relating to her own competitive journey and why they were important to ensure a long lasting career and long term health; - Turning pro; how her vision of herself and competing has changed and what pressures, if any she feels she faces now compared to her amateur career; - Future plans; And so much more! Leonie competes for the sheer love of improving herself, every single time she steps on stage and this was an incredible conversation full of wisdom which will do nothing but add value to the bikini space! You can follow Leonie on IG @leonie_west_ifbbpro and enquire to pose with her via @theposingroom . Don’t forget to keep your eyes peeled for her upcoming project too! Make sure you keep up with the podcast on social media for previews and details about upcoming guest speakers. Instagram: @thebackstagebikinipodcast Host: @jadeleahegarty Available on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Youtube and Amazon Music.

Got some feedback? Drop us a message! For Episode 57 we’re back with our UK’s own, Europa Pro Results and Review. The very last qualifier for this years @mrolympia was hosted here in the UK, giving one final bikini athlete the opportunity to get their ticket to Vegas this year. We also welcomed Tyler Mannion to the UK for the first time, giving each athlete the opportunity to collect invaluable feedback ahead of this year’s Olympia. In this episode we shine a light on the stand out physiques in the NPC European amateur show, as well as discussing the top 5 placings in the pro show. We provide our own views about the results and why we think athletes placed where they did. As always, these are our opinions only. We do not purport to be, nor are we, IFBB judges and our opinions are not shared to contend or question judges decisions and feedback, only to celebrate and discuss the criteria and the standard that is being set by these incredible athletes. Make sure you tune in, and let us know your thoughts about the show. What did you think of the placings? Did it meet your expectations? Let us know! Nothing but admiration for these athletes, they bring an incredible show and set a fantastic standard for the sport. Huge congratulations to your Europa Pro Bikini Champion @adakaczmarekifbbpro 🏆 and our athletes from the UK and Ireland, who represented us beautifully. You did us proud! Make sure you keep up with the podcast on social media for previews and details about upcoming guest speakers. Instagram: @thebackstagebikinipodcast Host: @jadeleahegarty Available on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Youtube and Amazon Music.

Got some feedback? Drop us a message! EP 56 Battle Up Productions Texas Pro Results and Review is now live on all platforms. One of the biggest shows in the IFBB Pro calendar and one of the few left awarding invites to this years @mrolympiallc so it was always set to deliver. A busy Bikini lineup with former Miss Olympia @isapecini amongst many other Olympian athletes, this was always going to be a masterclass. As always, we talk through the placings and athletes individually and provide our own views about the results and why we think athletes placed where they did. Huge shout out to @marniefit and @jakewatts_amp delivering a simply stunning representation for the UK, on a huge US stage. We are so proud of you both. As always, these are our opinions only. We do not purport to be, nor are we, IFBB judges and our opinions are not shared to contend or question judges decisions and feedback, only to celebrate and discuss the criteria and the standard that is being set by these incredible athletes. Make sure you tune in, and let us know your thoughts about the show. What did you think of the placings? Did it meet your expectations? Let us know! Nothing but admiration for these athletes, they bring an incredible show and set a fantastic standard for the sport. Huge congratulations to your Texas Pro champ @isapecini and @teamatlasmtl on delivering yet another sensational athlete! Make sure you keep up with the podcast on social media for previews and details about upcoming guest speakers. Instagram: @thebackstagebikinipodcast Host: @jadeleahegarty Available on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Youtube and Amazon Music.

Got some feedback? Drop us a message! EP 55 is now live and we had the honour of welcoming IFBB Bikini Pro and Olympian, Ariana Brothers on the podcast. Ariana returned to stage 3 years after her pro card win and blew us all out of the water. Her dedication to improving her physique in that time was evident the minute she stepped on stage but it was a pleasure to get to talk to her about her motives for taking the time away from stage and to discuss all of the other things that contributed to making her the athlete she is today. In this episode we cover: - How Ariana was introduced to the stage, her rapid success and how this impacted her; - Her mindset entering the sport vs now, what has changed if anything? - Taking an extensive off season, her motives, how she feels this shaped her career and how she stayed connected to the sport during this time; - Managing her internal dialogue at Pro level; pressures and stresses she faces now, how she approaches each show in terms of expectation and how that feeds into her experience on the whole; - Feedback from the Pittsburgh Pro, her choices relating to competing later in the year and what lessons she has learned; - Treating each prep individually; any differences she observed between her prep this year and the prep following her time away from stage; - Struggles, set backs and mindset challenges, her experience in life and how that impacts her ability to manage her mindset at this level; - Her upcoming shows, strategies for bringing her best Olympia look this year; and - Key take aways and advice she would give to aspiring professional athletes… And so much more. This was an amazing conversation which really shon a light on the internal resilience Ariana has mastered to make space for fulfilment and true enjoyment of her career, even when the pressure increases with her success. Not one to miss. You can follow Ariana on YouTube and on Instagram @ari_ifbbpro Make sure you keep up with the podcast on social media for previews and details about upcoming guest speakers. Instagram: @thebackstagebikinipodcast Host: @jadeleahegarty Available on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Youtube and Amazon Music.

Got some feedback? Drop us a message! We sat down for a 1-2-1 solocast this week to discuss our views on managing external feedback and body image both in season and off season. This is a topic that has been raised by our listeners time and time again and we wanted to take the opportunity to discuss the things we have encountered, learned and implemented when it comes to receiving negative or discerning feedback and acknowledge how these scenarios might impact you as a person, an athlete and how you view your body and yourself. I’m this episode we discuss: - Body image both in a prep setting and off season and how that can impact you as an athlete and a person in day to day life; - Managing body image in normal settings; - Sexualisation and managing feedback around physique development; - Managing external feedback in relation to diet choices in different settings; - Having compassion and an understanding that what we do isn’t “normal”; - Socially imposed expectations of the female body and what challenges that can impose when it comes to physique development; - Centring your communication from a place of passion rather than defence when it comes to being challenged about your decision to compete; And so much more. We really exposed much of our experiences in this podcast and it’s a topic that has shaped both of our journeys when it comes to competing and managing day to day life. We truly hope the insight and advice will help you navigate your own exposure to similar situations and limit the impact of any negativity whether that be from an internal or external source. Make sure you keep up with the podcast on social media for previews and details about upcoming guest speakers. Instagram: @thebackstagebikinipodcast Host: @jadeleahegarty Available on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Youtube and Amazon Music.

Got some feedback? Drop us a message! Episode 53 is now live and we had the pleasure of taking a deep dive into female health in bodybuilding with @mads.raw This one was in the pipeline for a while and we are excited to share this episode with you all. It’s a topic we have been dying to dig into and one that we feel is incredibly pertinent when it comes to considering whether you wish to compete as a female. Mads has an outstanding amount of knowledge when it comes to female health and we could think of no one better suited to discuss it! In this episode we cover - Mad’s background, how she got into bodybuilding/ coaching and where her passion for helping females with their health come from; - Biggest red flags with female heath to be considerate of when it comes to managing your health as a competitive athlete; - Importance of blood work, why you should not only be collecting this data but the importance of being able to investigate the results and causation fully; - Common issues she has encountered when it comes to female health both with athletes in prep and in off season; - PEDs and replacement therapies; the difference and how these can affect female health when implemented; - The use of contraception, how this affects female athletes health, progress and fertility; - FemTest, uses and effects. Why and when should it be deployed; - PCOS; likely symptoms and impacts, how has long term use of the pill/ PED usage potentially impacted these athletes and how best to combat these issues, supplementation etc? And so much more. Please note, this episode is by no means intended to be prescriptive. Prior to making any decisions relating to health supplementation, replacement therapies or any other form of treatment, you should consult with a registered medical professional. This is to highlight the need for awareness of your own health whilst participating in the sport and we hope you take as much from it as we did. Make sure you keep up with the podcast on social media for previews and details about upcoming guest speakers. Instagram: @thebackstagebikinipodcast Host: @jadeleahegarty Available on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Youtube and Amazon Music.

Got some feedback? Drop us a message! Episode 52 is now live on all platforms and we’ve had yet another pinch me moment, welcoming @jamidebernard, IFBB Pro and founder of @fitbodyfusion to the podcast. This was an honour simply put. Jami has decades of experience derived from her own competitive accolades and in coaching athletes from entry level, through to the worlds very best Olympia athletes. Naturally we couldn’t wait to speak to her about her contributions to the sport, her expertise and her coaching practices, which have formed the pillars of one of the leading coaching companies in the world today. In this episode we cover:- And so much more. Jami’s energy, enthusiasm and passion for this sport is infectious and something that really shon through in the way she spoke not only about her own experience in the sport but also in how she contributes to the community she has created with her athletes and the @fitbodyfusion team. Not one to miss!!! Make sure you keep up with us on social media for previews and details about upcoming guest speakers. Instagram: @thebackstagebikinipodcast Hosts: @gracemannion_ | @jadeleahegarty Available on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Youtube and Amazon Music. Make sure you keep up with the podcast on social media for previews and details about upcoming guest speakers. Instagram: @thebackstagebikinipodcast Host: @jadeleahegarty Available on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Youtube and Amazon Music.

Got some feedback? Drop us a message! EP 51 Pittsburgh Pro Results & Review is now live on all platforms and we had the pleasure of inviting @marniefit It was a pleasure to have Marnie return to the podcast for the second time and having stepped on this very stage herself, we couldn’t wait to hear his insight. This is arguably one of the most competitive bikini pro lineups we’ve seen all year with 14 Olympian athletes competing on the same stage. It was an incredible showing from every single athlete that presented on that stage and we were simply blown away. As always, these are our opinions only. We do not purport to be, nor are we, IFBB judges and our opinions are not shared to contend or question judges decisions and feedback, only to celebrate and discuss the criteria and the standard that is being set by these incredible athletes. Make sure you tune in, and let us know your thoughts about the show. What did you think of the placings? Did it meet your expectations? Let us know! Huge congratulations to your newest IFBB Bikini Pro @fitnessbyaims on her two time win at the Pittsburgh Pro, defending her title beautifully. Congratulations to all of the ladies who competed, both at an amateur and professional level. Make sure you keep up with the podcast on social media for previews and details about upcoming guest speakers. Instagram: @thebackstagebikinipodcast Host: @jadeleahegarty Available on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Youtube and Amazon Music.

Got some feedback? Drop us a message! For EP 50, we had the pleasure of welcoming a UK’s leading bikini athlete, IFBB Pro and head of The Bikini Coach, Char Ellis @char_thebikinicoach. Char is well known across the UK for being relentless in her pursuit of her pro card and now, just off the back of her pro debut where she made a huge entrance and statement in the pro league - we couldn't wait to sit down and chat about her entire journey. In this episode we cover: - Her introduction to bodybuilding, sporting background and how that played a pivotal role in her competitive journey; - Her amateur career; self doubt and mindset challenges having spent years getting within touching distance of her goals; - How she approached her amateur shows and now professional appearances, expectations and mindset; - Feedback following her pro win and how her training and approach has evolved to develop her physique; - Her pro debut; being strategic in relation to her shows and why this mattered; - How her competitive career impacts and influences both her coaching business and personal life; - Future goals and plans This conversation was well overdue and we know will inspire so many of you. To see how resilient you need to be as an amateur, the importance of always striving for improvement and learning to never giving up on your goal. The future for Char is looking very promising, and we can't wait to see what she and Rob achieve, as well as Char’s team of upcoming bikini athletes. As always, please like, comment, and share! We love to hear your feedback and whether you’re taking value forward. Make sure you keep up with the podcast on social media for previews and details about upcoming guest speakers. Instagram: @thebackstagebikinipodcast Host: @jadeleahegarty Available on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Youtube and Amazon Music.

Got some feedback? Drop us a message! For EP 49, we had the pleasure of welcoming one of the UK’s leading prep coaches, @amplified_nutrition head coach @jakewatts_amp Jake has a wealth of knowledge and a huge roster of both professional and amateur bikini athletes, this was an episode that was long overdue. In this episode we cover: - How Jake built the business he stands so proudly at the forefront of now, his commitments beyond bodybuilding and how he juggles this; - His approach to coaching and peaking athletes at different levels, how has this changed over the years, if at all; - Managing athlete mindsets, what does he do to prepare an athlete for stage psychologically and why does this make a difference; - The biggest challenges facing bikini athletes now vs then, his views on how the sport is accelerating and whether this is impacting decision making by coaches and athletes; - Is bikini still an entry level division? His thoughts on why bikini is so hard to nail, manipulations to consider and where his athletes need him the most. This really was an incredible discussion, with so much food for thought. Jake advocates so highly for his athletes and you can truly see his passion shine through the way he talks about his commitment to them. As always, please like, comment and share! We love to hear your feedback and whether you’re taking value forward. Make sure you keep up with the podcast on social media for previews and details about upcoming guest speakers. Instagram: @thebackstagebikinipodcast Host: @jadeleahegarty Available on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Youtube and Amazon Music.

Got some feedback? Drop us a message! EP 48 1 Bro Pro & 10x Ben Weider Review with @paulrevelia is now live on all platforms. It was a pleasure to have Paul return to the podcast for the second time and having spent the weekend in the UK to watch the show, we couldn’t wait to hear his insight. The standard across the whole show was something to be incredibly proud of and in this episode we talk through results, placings, Paul’s first impressions of how European shows differ from the USA and all the bits in between. It was an incredible moment for Paul to not only be here to support his client @ottavia_mazza_ifbbpro with @stephenbeaugrand but to then watch her secure her Olympia qualification. ⭕️ 🏆 He discusses her feedback, their approaches from show to show, how he manipulated her look from the Arnold’s to the 1 Bro Pro Show and her plans going forward into the year. As always, these are our opinions only. We do not purport to be, nor are we, IFBB judges and our opinions are not shared to contend or question judges decisions and feedback, only to celebrate and discuss the criteria and the standard that is being set by these incredible athletes. Make sure you tune in, and let us know your thoughts about the show. What did you think of the placings? Did it meet your expectations? Let us know! Huge congratulations to your newest IFBB Bikini Pro @celina.schlz at the incredible age of just 21. A huge future in the sport and undoubtedly the clear winner on the day. Congratulations to all of the ladies who competed, both at an amateur and professional level. Make sure you keep up with the podcast on social media for previews and details about upcoming guest speakers. Instagram: @thebackstagebikinipodcast Host: @jadeleahegarty Available on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Youtube and Amazon Music.

Got some feedback? Drop us a message! EP 47 Arnold Classic Bikini International Results and Review is now live on all platforms and we had the pleasure of discussing the results with our fave North East lass and bikini competitor @charl_emilyy As always, a highly anticipated show which undoubtedly sets the standard for the rest of the competitive year! This show didn’t disappoint at all; from the physiques displayed to the showmanship each of the ladies showed and continue to demonstrate, it truly was a pleasure to watch! Charlotte sat up until all hours committing herself to seeing who took the title and we couldn’t wait to have her on to discuss her thoughts! This week we talk through the top 6 placings and athletes individually and provide our own views about the results and why we think athletes placed where they did. We saw the return of @angelicaht and a close battle between @fitnessbyaims and @lauraliechap got the title. As always, these are our opinions only. We do not purport to be, nor are we, IFBB judges and our opinions are not shared to contend or question judges decisions and feedback, only to celebrate and discuss the criteria and the standard that is being set by these incredible athletes. Make sure you tune in, and let us know your thoughts about the show. What did you think of the placings? Did it meet your expectations? Let us know! Nothing but admiration for these athletes, they bring an incredible show and set a fantastic standard for the sport. Huge congratulations to your 3x Miss Bikini International @lauraliechap and all of the other beautiful ladies that competed. Make sure you keep up with the podcast on social media for previews and details about upcoming guest speakers. Instagram: @thebackstagebikinipodcast Host: @jadeleahegarty Available on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Youtube and Amazon Music.

Got some feedback? Drop us a message! EP 46 is now live on all platforms and these guests truly need little introduction: 2x Miss Bikini international, Lauralie Chapados and owner of Iron University, Aldo Parades. Pinch us!!!! This was a once in lifetime conversation and we will remain eternally grateful for the time and transparency both Lauralie and Aldo offered up during this conversation. We cover: - Lauralie’s background, what brought her to bodybuilding and her career to date; - “Balance” , what lessons has Lauralie learned over the years, how have those affected jer priorities and values now, what if anything would she change about her journey? - Feedback from this years Olympia and her experience this year compared to previous Olympia appearances: What adaptations have they made to her approach in readiness for the Arnold Ohio? - Training considerations and how she has had to adapt over time, to refine her physique? - Their opinion of the development of the class over the years? What if anything has changed? - Off season and her approach to ensuring she pours into her life beyond the stage. - Challenges along the way; has she ever encountered self doubt? - Advice for athletes; the importance of remaining present, absorbing the process and embracing all that comes with it. The takeaways from this episode are invaluable. Lauralie is an icon of the sport and her insight is not something to be disregarded. She continues to inspire us and the community we love and we can’t wait to see her up on stage in 2 weeks time! You can follow both Lauralie and Aldo at: @lauraliechap @ironuniversity Where you can find links to their services and keep up to date with them both! Please make sure you tune in, share and let us have your feedback! Make sure you keep up with the podcast on social media for previews and details about upcoming guest speakers. Instagram: @thebackstagebikinipodcast Host: @jadeleahegarty Available on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Youtube and Amazon Music.

Got some feedback? Drop us a message! EP 45 is now live on all platforms and we had the pleasure of inviting IFBB Bikini Pro, and Posing Portal Coach Beatriz Biscaia @biscaiapro ​ ​Beatriz turned pro at 17, and qualified for and competed at the prestigious @mrolympiallp twice, all before turning 20. She has excelled in the sport at such a pivotal age, with her whole life ahead of her and we couldn’t wait to chat with her to discuss how she navigated that at such an early age. ​ In this episode we discuss: Beatriz’s journey to stage, her training background, her IFBB pro card win and competing at the Olympia at just 18 years old; Her mindset throughout; dealing with the pressure of turning pro at such a young age, juggling life, competing and studying; Her reasons for stepping away from competing; what contributed to her decision to take a break away from the stage, binge eating, body image, losing her identity; How she dealt with this period of her life; the impact on how she identified with herself, lessons and boundaries that arose as a result; Returning to stage; her non-negotiables in relation to protecting her net. ​ And so much more. ​​ This conversation was like a free therapy session. It is incredibly important to ensure that as athletes, we take responsibility not only for our conduct as athletes, but for all of the other things that feed into who we are as people too. Beatriz’ mindset and application to herself and the sport is, and always has been, beyond her years ​and it was a pleasure to hear her share her thoughts and experiences. ​ You can follow Beatriz and her return to stage on Instagram at @biscaiapro and you can find her at @theposingportal for all your posing enquiries. Make sure you keep up with the podcast on social media for previews and details about upcoming guest speakers. Instagram: @thebackstagebikinipodcast Host: @jadeleahegarty Available on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Youtube and Amazon Music.

Got some feedback? Drop us a message! EP 44 is now live on all platforms and we’re kicking off 2024 with an industry known Coach - The Glute Guy and Inventor of the Hip Thrust, none other than @bretcontreras1! ​ ​ Bret is a pioneer, with a wealth of knowledge and experience - very few come close to his expertise, so we couldn’t wait a second longer to sit down and pick his brains on all things glute development. ​ ​ In this episode we discuss: - Bret’s background, how he became involved in the industry and his career to date; - How female training has evolved over the years, his approaches and beliefs now vs then; - Optimising glute development, considerations for programming and exercise selection; - Compound vs accessory movements for glute growth and why it’s important to do the “fluff”’work; - Camp mentality in relation to programming female bikini/wellness athletes, misogyny and bias relating to programming for female/bikini athletes; - Genetics in bodybuilding and the bikini division, how much do they play a part; - Sumo stance vs conventional movement patterns and his views on efficiency for glute growth - Common mistakes he sees frequently which may be contributing to your lack of progress ​ ​ And so much more. ​ ​ For all our bikinis girls, coaches looking to level up their knowledge or anyone interested in maximising their glute training. This is a must listen. ​ ​ There a few episodes that will top this one and we’re extremely grateful to Bret for dedicating his precious time to sharing his thoughts. ​ ​ You can follow Bret at @bretcontreras1 and keep up with all of his work and follow his athletes too. Make sure you keep up with the podcast on social media for previews and details about upcoming guest speakers. Instagram: @thebackstagebikinipodcast Host: @jadeleahegarty Available on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Youtube and Amazon Music.