Beyond The Prep Podcast

“Do it for yourself, not for somebody else… especially if you want to stay committed to it.” —Julie Making a comeback after injury is a challenging but rewarding journey. Through grit and determination, the injured athlete can work step-by-step to recover strengths and skills, starting small with simple movements and building up endurance, flexibility, and power over time. And as the body is reconditioned, we can overcome even serious injuries to find new heights of ability. After a devastating motorcycle accident left her with a broken foot and doubts about her future in bodybuilding, Julie was determined to make an incredible comeback. Against all odds, she pushed through grueling physical therapy and bouts of pain to get back in the gym. Though the injury lingered and certain exercises grew difficult, her passion for fitness and competing drove her to continue chasing her dreams of stepping on stage. In this episode, Julie shares her inspiring story of perseverance as she overcame the challenges of recovery and qualifying for another show— proving that true dedication can help one prevail over any obstacle in the pursuit of their passions. Sherrie and Julie also discuss why slow and steady weight loss is better than dropping weight too quickly, why competing should be done for intrinsic motivation, why having a strong support system is important for staying motivated, and why good communication is important when coaching athletes. Connect with Sherrie: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sherrie.massiakapach Instagram: https://instagram.com/mindbodysoul_hypnothetapist LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherrie-kapach-b5bb26243 Email: skapach40@gmail.com Episode Highlights: 01:43 Entering Competition After Injury 03:29 Prepping Based on Your Body Composition 05:00 Set Fitness Goals for You 06:59 The Importance of Coaches

“Part of me is to set an example and tell them that there are people out there with PKU on stage.” —Aiden Young Every athlete faces challenges on their journey, but few overcome obstacles as formidable as their own genetics. Aiden Young was born with phenylketonuria (PKU), a rare disorder preventing his body from breaking down protein— an essential macronutrient for building muscle mass. Yet through creativity, perseverance, and a refusal to accept limitations, Aiden has shattered expectations by pursuing competitive bodybuilding. Now in his fifth show after just a year and a half of training, Aiden proves that health conditions are not destiny by rewriting what is possible through adaptive training methods. Tune in to hear Aiden's incredible story of pushing past brain fog, diet restrictions, mindset shifting, adapting his training to make it work for his condition, supporting others, and inspiring through sharing his journey. Connect with Sherrie: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sherrie.massiakapach Instagram: https://instagram.com/mindbodysoul_hypnothetapist LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherrie-kapach-b5bb26243 Email: skapach40@gmail.com Episode Highlights: 01:42 Plagued by a Genetic Disorder 03:24 Managing PKU and Limitations 05:10 Overcoming Injuries and Trauma 06:39 Feeling “Bouncy” with Anticipation

“Becoming a mom is hard, especially when your little ones want you and only you. Don't be hard on yourself. Take your time.” —Margarita Vailas For many busy mothers, the challenge of balancing career, family responsibilities, and personal health goals can seem insurmountable. Between shuttling kids to activities, long workdays, and endless household tasks, finding even an hour for exercise often falls by the wayside. However, with a growth mindset and support system in place, women can successfully weave fitness into their lives despite full plates. In this episode, we are joined by Margarita Vailas. As a mother of two balancing a career in film, Margarita knows the challenges of prepping for a competition. But Margarita proves it's possible with grit and a positive mindset. Hop in as Margarita offers insightful perspectives on balancing fitness goals with family responsibilities, the mental and physical challenges of competing, the importance of support systems, managing expectations, why patience is crucial achieving gradual progress, and making health and wellness as a priority. Connect with Sherrie: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sherrie.massiakapach Instagram: https://instagram.com/mindbodysoul_hypnothetapist LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherrie-kapach-b5bb26243 Email: skapach40@gmail.com Episode Highlights: 01:54 Balancing Responsibilities and Fitness Goals 03:49 Mental and Physical Preparation for Competitions 06:00 The Role of Patience 07:57 The Struggle with Feeling Ready

“Enjoy every second of it whether it's the offseason where you're building to get to your first prep to start your cut. Don't feel like it's a chore because it’s a huge commitment. It's time, it's body, it's everything. It's all of you.” —Renee Gareau Undergoing bodybuilding prep requires pushing our physical and mental limits. While the desire to improve and compete is motivating, truly listening to our body's needs is crucial for long-term success and well-being. Sometimes, we may have to make necessary adjustments to make progress without burning out. This awareness will help us better structure our training, nutrition, and recovery so that we can continually enhance our physique while also caring for our whole self in the process. This week, we are showered with timely insights about better understanding our body's needs during preps and offseasons from our guest, Renee Gareau. Listen in as Renee opens up about the physical and mental challenges she faced during her first prep, the importance of support systems, the power of truly committing to the bodybuilding lifestyle and enjoying the process, and lessons learned about maintaining an active lifestyle. Connect with Sherrie: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sherrie.massiakapach Instagram: https://instagram.com/mindbodysoul_hypnothetapist LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherrie-kapach-b5bb26243 Email: skapach40@gmail.com Episode Highlights: 01:24 Challenges in Training and Off-Season Competition 04:38 Enjoy the Journey 06:18 The Role of Support System for Bodybuilders

“The community of people that do this are all like-minded. And we all actually genuinely want the best for everyone.” —Hali Lawrence Pushing through plateaus is tough, but it's what truly separates the contenders from the pretenders. It's easy to keep training hard when you're seeing results, but when things slow down it takes real guts to stick with it. Only the bodybuilders willing to push just a little more each session, even on those days they aren't feeling it, will be the ones standing on stage on show day. This episode features an interview with Kayleigh Lawrence. From her strict macros, meticulous meal prep, and hours spent on the treadmill to shred every last ounce of fat, Kayleigh’s story sheds light on the true grit and determination bodybuilders must possess in these grueling final weeks. Listen in as Kayleigh discusses her journey to bodybuilding as a single mom, the challenges of preparing for a show as a first-time competitor, overcoming nerves and stage fright, prepping for a show while balancing family life, getting stage ready in 20 weeks of prep, finding support in the bodybuilding community, as well as her competition plans in the coming months. Connect with Sherrie: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sherrie.massiakapach Instagram: https://instagram.com/mindbodysoul_hypnothetapist LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherrie-kapach-b5bb26243 Email: skapach40@gmail.com Episode Highlights: 00:08 First Time Competitor Challenges 02:26 Preparing for the Competition 03:48 Overcoming Stage Fright 05:31 Community for Success

“I want to thank you all. Without you, this would not be a success. It's been a great experience. I'm loving it, and I'm hoping to continue it for many seasons to come.” —Sherrie Kapach Season one of Beyond the Prep was a major success! We want to take a moment to say THANK YOU to our beloved guests and listeners from the bottom of our hearts for joining us on this wild podcast ride. Your support, feedback, and love have truly blown us away. But our beloved host, Sherrie, isn't resting on her laurels. She aims to take the show to new heights in the next installment— new guests, fascinating topics, and plenty of laughs along the way. Get ready to embark on an unforgettable audio adventure with us as we dive deep into the stories and ideas that matter. So buckle up, grab your headphones, and let's dive right into Season 2 together! We also want to thank TNT Muscle Productions Inc. for giving Beyond the Prep Season 1 as well as The Golden Prairie Cup for giving Beyond the Prep Season 2 such a prominent platform to connect with amazing athletes and reach new audiences. Connect with Sherrie: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sherrie.massiakapach Instagram: https://instagram.com/mindbodysoul_hypnothetapist LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherrie-kapach-b5bb26243 Email: skapach40@gmail.com Episode Highlights: 00:10 Shoutouts 01:04 A Big THANK YOU To All of You!

“Make your goal a reality. It's amazing what's out there for you when you step outside your comfort zone.” —Sherrie Kapach Beyond the glitz and glamour lies the grit of competitive bodybuilding. From meticulous meal prep to grueling workouts, contenders must push their bodies to the limit to achieve peak physiques. Hear firsthand what it truly takes to succeed from those who have stood on stage and conquered the competition. In this episode, Master Coach Tanya turns the tables and interviews her friend, Sherry, about the behind-the-scenes look at what it really takes to succeed as a bodybuilder, straight from the champion herself. Sherry opens up about how she was inspired to start competing after facing kidney failure and multiple surgeries that brought her to death's door. She dives into the grueling process of training and meal prepping for shows and gets real about the challenges of sticking to her plans. Sherry also shares insights into the tight-knit bodybuilding community and how supportive it is, the nature of competition prep, the importance of working with a coach, the time and discipline required for success in bodybuilding, and much more! Connect with Sherrie: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sherrie.massiakapach Instagram: https://instagram.com/mindbodysoul_hypnothetapist LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherrie-kapach-b5bb26243 Email: skapach40@gmail.com Episode Highlights: 03:51 Sherrie on Overcoming Barriers 11:10 Make-Up and Competition Prep 17:49 Finding the Right Coach 25:32 Fitness Competition and Qualifications 31:54 Hypnosis and Mindset for Bodybuilding 38:30 Judging with a Pro Athlete 44:42 Are You Up for the Challenge?

“When you see your body change and your progress is made, you get excited to see it.” —Laila Lanteigne “Ask yourself why you're doing it. And if you're not doing it for the right reasons, it's not for you.” —Jordan Long Whether you're a seasoned bodybuilder or a fresh-faced newbie, the principles, mindsets, and values that fuel success remain the same. Consistent effort, unwavering discipline, and the will to push through any obstacle are the hallmarks of a true bodybuilder. The path may be long and arduous, but the rewards are worth every drop of sweat and every ounce of pain. This week’s episode features coaches, bodybuilding competitors, and life partners, Jordan Long and Laila Lanteigne. Jordan has been competing in bodybuilding for 17 years since he was 15 years old, making him the youngest competitor at his first show. He placed third at his most recent competition. Lila recently started her competing journey, winning her first show overall at the wellness division after only 12 weeks of dedicated prep. Listen in as they discuss the challenges of prepping together while raising their family and maintaining busy careers. Jordan and Laila also share about their recent competition experiences at the TNT show, lessons they’ve learned over the years about overtraining, undereating, and using performance-enhancing drugs at a young age, mental challenges of competing, the importance of having the right motivations and coach, and advice for both experienced and new athletes. Connect with Sherrie: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sherrie.massiakapach Instagram: https://instagram.com/mindbodysoul_hypnothetapist LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherrie-kapach-b5bb26243 Email: skapach40@gmail.com Episode Highlights: 01:17 Competing as a 15-Year-Old 03:37 Fitness Journey and Balancing Family Life 07:45 Learning Patience with Progress 12:11 BodyBuilding, Diet, and Mental Health 16:49 Reverse Dieting for Competition Prep 20:55 Pre-Show Rituals 23:36 Every Little Detail Matters

“Enjoy the process. Enjoy yourself improving.” —Caroline Johnson Unlocking the secrets to bodybuilding success isn't just about what happens on the stage; it's about what goes on behind the scenes. The post-show routine is where gains turn into victories, where muscles meet their moment, and where the true bodybuilding champions emerge. From replenishing nutrients to relishing well-earned indulgences, it's the journey from prep to party that defines true bodybuilding excellence. Caroline Johnson started bodybuilding after injuring her knee and found that she enjoyed training and competing. She has been competing for many years now and has enjoyed exploring different categories like bikini and figure. Her passion for the sport is clear as she continues training and pursuing new goals. Hit play and join the conversation as Caroline shares her experiences choosing expensive custom bikinis and competing in multiple shows in one year. She also opens up about transitioning between divisions due to muscle growth and offers advice for newcomers. Sherrie and Caroline also talk about the importance of being mindful yet giving time for relaxation, enjoying cheat meals, and slowly reversing diet post-show. Connect with Sherrie: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sherrie.massiakapach Instagram: https://instagram.com/mindbodysoul_hypnothetapist LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherrie-kapach-b5bb26243 Email: skapach40@gmail.com Episode Highlights: 01:25 The Struggle of Finding the Right Bikini 05:38 Posing Challenges in Figure Competition 09:17 From Prep to Post-Show Recovery 12:53 The Role of Self-Care in the Fitness Journey

“Take it day by day. Even little changes do add up.” —Savannah Silver Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting your fitness journey, the dedication required to get competition-ready is no small feat. In this episode, Sherrie and bikini competitor, Savannah Silver, dig into some of the real nitty-gritty aspects of prep that competitors face, from navigating social situations to managing moods on a strict diet. Savannah fell in love with the sport after seeing the transformation of a friend in 2015, prompting her to compete in her first show. With help from her ex-husband/coach, Savannah has seen her physique transform over the years into an increasingly polished package, and she will continue pursuing improvements as she prepared for her next qualifier in Toronto in August 2022. Tune in as they talk about what competitors find most difficult to stick to and creative ways to stay on track even when temptation calls. They also discuss effective strategies for maximizing workouts without access to a full gym. Connect with Sherrie: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sherrie.massiakapach Instagram: https://instagram.com/mindbodysoul_hypnothetapist LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherrie-kapach-b5bb26243 Email: skapach40@gmail.com Episode Highlights: 01:17 Parenting as a Bodybuilder 05:20 How to Prep— Packing Essentials 09:54 Pandemic Era Challenges 14:24 Competing in Natural Shows

“You can still have a social life, just be disciplined about it and stick to your goal.” —Cleo Wayway Maintaining balance and discipline is a cornerstone of a successful bodybuilding journey, whether during competition season or the offseason. During competition season, discipline is vital for achieving the desired physique, while in the offseason, it's about managing recovery and controlling body composition. Consistency and balance throughout both phases are key to sustained progress and continual improvement in the sport of bodybuilding. Cleo Wayway is a competitive bodybuilder from Calgary, Alberta. He began lifting weights seriously in high school and has maintained an active lifestyle ever since. In 2022, Cleo decided to enter his first bodybuilding competition. Through his new lifestyle in and out of competition, Cleo has gained mental and physical strength. Listen in as Sherrie and Cleo discuss the mental and physical challenges of bodybuilding, how competing can be a transformational journey, how to maintain discipline during the offseason, and how communication with your coach is key to success. Connect with Sherrie: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sherrie.massiakapach Instagram: https://instagram.com/mindbodysoul_hypnothetapist LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherrie-kapach-b5bb26243 Email: skapach40@gmail.com Episode Highlights: 01:13 Food and Eating Post-Competition Struggles 03:51 Fitness Journey After Car Accident 08:27 Self-Discipline and Lifestyle Changes Impact Goal Achievement 12:30 Off-Season Training 16:44 The Importance of Nutrition and Mindset

“It's good to let your body know that it can have those foods too. It's important. And it's good to treat yourself.” —Avril Stead Bodybuilding is a rigorous sport that requires discipline, dedication, and strict adherence to a well-balanced diet. Many bodybuilders face challenges when it comes to satisfying cravings while staying on track with their nutrition plan. The diet struggle is real, but knowing how to satisfy our cravings without compromising our diet is key to achieving our goals while still enjoying the food we love. This week, Sherrie Kapach and seasoned bikini pro, Avril Stead, share an insightful chat covering the highs and lows of competition prep from an experienced competitor's perspective. They also discuss the importance of research in finding an aligned coach, how to satisfy cravings without compromising your diet, the benefits of forming a community in the sport, setting boundaries with family, and maintaining dedication to your fitness goals. Connect with Sherrie: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sherrie.massiakapach Instagram: https://instagram.com/mindbodysoul_hypnothetapist LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherrie-kapach-b5bb26243 Email: skapach40@gmail.com Episode Highlights: 01:12 A Memorable Start in Bodybuilding 02:04 Finding the Right Coach 03:16 Research Matters Before Choosing a Coach 05:00 Peak Week Preparation 09:22 Dedication to Fitness and A Balanced Lifestyle

“To really take yourself to the next level, you need to think about somehow you're inspiring other people.” —John Mark Nicolet While bodybuilding and powerlifting share some similarities such as building strength and muscle mass, they differ in their training methods and ultimate goals. By striking the right balance between these two disciplines and incorporating strategies that support both goals, individuals can unlock their full potential and achieve their desired results. Therefore, committing to improvement and developing a winning mentality can make a difference in overcoming the unique challenges of pursuing multiple sports. A strong commitment fuels progress while a winning mentality sustains motivation and resilience. This week’s Sherrie sits with bodybuilder/powerlifter John Mark Nicolet. John Mark discusses how he got into bodybuilding from a young age with the encouragement of his father and his commitment to continual self-improvement. Sherrie and John also talked about balancing training and nutrition for the different goals of each sport, and the importance of intrinsic motivation in inspiring yourself and others. Connect with Sherrie: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sherrie.massiakapach Instagram: https://instagram.com/mindbodysoul_hypnothetapist LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherrie-kapach-b5bb26243 Email: skapach40@gmail.com Episode Highlights: 01:13 Inspired by His Father 03:29 Developing a Winning Mentality 04:22 Committing to Improvement 06:14 Balancing Bodybuilding and Powerlifting 06:30 Adjusting Meals for Different Competitions 07:06 Challenges of Back-to-Back Competitions 09:17 Finding Inspiration and Motivation in Others

“Make sure that you have a positive body image with yourself. Get that in order first before you start your journey.” —Rhonda Tennant Competitive bodybuilding is not without its challenges. From grueling training routines to strict dietary restrictions, athletes constantly face physical and mental obstacles. In such situations, an unwavering self-belief can be a powerful anchor. Having a positive view of ourselves serves as a constant reminder that we are capable of conquering any obstacle that comes our way. This positivity carries over into all aspects of our lives, leading to greater overall fulfillment and contributing to the longevity of our careers. This week, Sherrie interviews veteran bodybuilder Rhonda Tennant. Rhonda shares her journey into the sport after being inspired by another competitor at age 53. She also discusses the struggles of her early competitions without proper coaching, how to cope with the cravings, lifting techniques, and how the camaraderie of the bodybuilding community helped her push through the challenges of peak week. Connect with Sherrie: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sherrie.massiakapach Instagram: https://instagram.com/mindbodysoul_hypnothetapist LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherrie-kapach-b5bb26243 Email: skapach40@gmail.com Episode Highlights: 01:57 It's never too late 02:43 Importance of research and commitment 04:56 The value of a good coach 06:06 Coping with cravings 06:55 Keep a Positive Self-Image 08:23 Community support

“Think going in with a mindset of being an athlete, showing up like an athlete, and treating the sport seriously and just not double down.” —Melissa Corsiatto One common hesitation among athletes is the fear of failure. This can hinder their ability to take risks and explore their full potential. By reframing beliefs and instilling a positive mindset, athletes become more willing to step out of their comfort zones and push their boundaries. This newfound resilience allows them to stay focused, persevere through challenges, and emerge stronger than ever before. While physical training and mental focus are essential, there is another powerful tool in the realm of sports psychology— hypnotherapy. Hypnotherapy taps into the unconscious mind, reshaping negative beliefs, and promoting positive thinking. By accessing the subconscious, hypnotherapy can help athletes address mental blocks, overcome self-doubt, and boost their confidence. In this episode, we delve into an uplifting discussion with bodybuilder Melissa Corsiatto, who shares her incredible journey of transforming from a hesitant competitor to a confident athlete with the help of hypnotherapy. Melissa opens up about the obstacles she faced, balancing motherhood and her budding career in competitive bodybuilding, and the importance of hiring a posing coach and treating the process as a committed athletic pursuit. Connect with Sherrie: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sherrie.massiakapach Instagram: https://instagram.com/mindbodysoul_hypnothetapist LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherrie-kapach-b5bb26243 Email: skapach40@gmail.com Episode Highlights: 01:17 How Hypnotherapy Impacts Confidence 02:22 Early Competition Struggles and Creating New Habits 03:06 Competing with a Family 03:34 The Benefits of Hiring a Posing Coach 05:07 Advice for New Competitors 07:03 The Impact of Switching Coaches

“Just focus on yourself, that's all you can really do. You can't control anybody else… Don't overextend yourself because it's meant to be about personal growth and development.” —Dèvre Gibson Hard work is non-negotiable in bodybuilding. Whether it’s grueling gym sessions, unyielding cardio routines, or the disciplined exertion of self-control, the hard work required is relentless and rigorous. Yet, remember, it’s never about perfection, but progress; and never about external comparison, but personal growth. In this episode, Sherrie sits down with competitive bodybuilder Dèvre Gibson to share how she got her start in bodybuilding and her motivation to continue competing to push her limits. Learn about the commitment required to compete, the mental strength it takes to focus and block out comparisons, and transitioning into coaching and helping others achieve their goals. For those considering competing, Dèvre offers invaluable advice on finding the right coach and allowing adequate preparation time. She also emphasizes the importance of support from the tight-knit bodybuilding community. Tune in and make every rep count! Connect with Sherrie: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sherrie.massiakapach Instagram: https://instagram.com/mindbodysoul_hypnothetapist LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherrie-kapach-b5bb26243 Email: skapach40@gmail.com Episode Highlights: 02:36 Commitment to Competing 05:06 Transitioning into Coaching 07:31 Focusing on Self-Improvement Over Social Comparisons 08:32 Finding the Right Coach and Preparation Time 09:58 The Supportive Bodybuilding Community

It's a journey. You need to be willing to make sure that you have the ability to be dedicated. It's a huge sacrifice.” —Robert Craig Bodybuilding’s addictive nature could make you a permanent resident on the stage. But, each step you take towards the spotlight is a measure of your dedication. It might mean missing outings for training sessions, foregoing late-night activities for a full night’s rest, or even skipping your favorite food to stay within your diet plan. Dedication is not just a trait— it’s a commitment to your dreams. Essentially. bodybuilding is a form of art that involves sculpting your physique through many sacrifices. After all, bodybuilding is not just about the flexing of your muscles— it’s about the unwavering display of your willpower. Listen in as Sherrie and Classic Physique Competitor Robert Craig talk about the role of dedication in your bodybuilding journey, what sacrifices are required from an athlete, how to display dedication in your craft, and the benefits of having a partner to prep with. Connect with Sherrie: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sherrie.massiakapach Instagram: https://instagram.com/mindbodysoul_hypnothetapist LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherrie-kapach-b5bb26243 Email: skapach40@gmail.com Episode Highlights: 01:38 Hooked To Classique Physique 04:35 Facing the Struggles 05:33 Be Willing to Sacrifice 07:54 Have a Support System

“Think of reverse diet as your prep.” —Sharly Graham Reverse dieting is a post-diet process where one gradually increases his/her calorie intake to avoid sudden weight gain while also optimizing metabolic health. But how does this fit into the bodybuilding journey? Consistent control of calorie intake and expenditure facilitates muscle growth and efficient fat loss— two key objectives in bodybuilding. Reverse dieting plays a vital role in both of these processes. In this episode, Sharly Graham teaches us a valuable lesson on determination, not rushing your growth, and sustaining your transformation. When Sharly noticed her weight gain, it was more than just the physical aspect that bothered her. Determined to make a change, she took the first steps toward her weight loss journey. As she saw the first visible signs of progress in her journey, Sharly decided to reward herself by taking part in her first-ever bodybuilding show. Eventually, her love for the sport went beyond simple participation. Six years into the sport, the sweat and strain of gym life and the thrill of competition completely enthralled her. Listen in as Sherrie and Sharly discuss the challenges and benefits of reverse dieting, finding the right bodybuilding category for you, balancing stress levels, understanding what your body truly needs, the pros and cons of prepping together with your significant other, and more! Connect with Sherrie: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sherrie.massiakapach Instagram: https://instagram.com/mindbodysoul_hypnothetapist LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherrie-kapach-b5bb26243 Email: skapach40@gmail.com Episode Highlights: 01:58 From Weight Loss to Body Building 03:30 Switching Categories 06:38 Find the Right Coach 08:10 Your Real Competition 10:18 Prep Together

"Enjoy the journey. This is for yourself, not for others. So stick with your boundaries and what your goals are.” —Audrey LaFleur Being an athlete is not just about lifting weights or adhering strictly to a diet. It involves juggling personal responsibilities, and this can sometimes take a toll. Therefore, understanding how to balance time between these essential roles is vital. A well-planned schedule is at the core of a successful bodybuilding journey. It allows you to avoid overtraining, manage fatigue levels, and harmonize bodybuilding with other commitments. By being efficient, the resulting progress can be astronomical, which further contributes to your athletic prowess and general well-being. This week, we are joined by Audrey Lafleur, the Founder and Master Cosmetic Tattooist of Wonderland Micropigment. Join in as Sherrie and Audrey discuss how athletes can improve their knowledge in the sport, the hard part of prep, balancing your time for bodybuilding and other responsibilities, the importance of scheduling, what self-care means, and the power of doing extra. Connect with Sherrie: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sherrie.massiakapach Instagram: https://instagram.com/mindbodysoul_hypnothetapist LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherrie-kapach-b5bb26243 Email: skapach40@gmail.com Episode Highlights: 01:36 Finding the Missing Link 03:43 The Hardest Part 05:48 How to Get Better 09:06 The Importance of Scheduling 10:10 The Importance of Self-Care

“I haven't even hit the stage yet this is so worth it.” —Taylor Baker Competing in bodybuilding is not a decision to be made lightly— it requires a significant investment of time, energy, and resources. However, the reward of seeing your hard work reflected back in the mirror, transformed into a symphony of perfectly chiseled symmetry, is worth every bead of sweat. That’s how Taylor Baker, a character as feisty as they come, feels about starting her bodybuilding journey. Taylor has always had a certain affinity for pushing her limits since her early youth. Despite her spine surgery at 15 that threatened to crush her fiery spirit, she stood undeterred. Drawn in by the rigorous training and discipline, Taylor found her adventure in the world of bodybuilding. As one might expect, she found herself hopelessly enamored with the sport. Listen in as Taylor shares her excitement about her very first competition and how having a support system allowed her to live an exciting life. Taylor and Sherrie also reveal what to expect in your first year of bodybuilding, why having a strategy tailored to your needs helps in reaching your goals and advancing in the game, how to adjust your routines as your body changes every year, and more! Connect with Sherrie: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sherrie.massiakapach Instagram: https://instagram.com/mindbodysoul_hypnothetapist LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherrie-kapach-b5bb26243 Email: skapach40@gmail.com Episode Highlights: 01:15 Loving the Extreme 03:37 The Power of a Support System 09:23 Adjusting to Body Changes 13:11 Finding Family in a Competitive World