Confessions of a Bikini Pro Podcast

ASHLYN BROWN RETURNS; Pro Debut to Olympia Dreams Coming True, Perfecting Your Look, Feedback Focused, and Putting Yourself Out There

10/23/2020

Today, IFBB Professional Ashlyn Brown makes her second appearance on “Confessions of a Bikini Pro”. In this exciting episode, Celeste and Ashlyn discuss all the major changes and events that have happened since Ashlyn’s debut to the podcast in December of 2018 which you can hear here: http://www.celestial.fit/confessions-of-a-bikini-pro-podcast/ashlyn-brown-getting-capped-shoulders-coming-back-from-a-nasty-rebound-developing-a-love-for-the-sport-how-small-tweaks-can-make-all-the-difference-and-staying-consistent.

Ashlyn goes in depth about her exciting journey, qualifying for the 2020 Olympia! She provides details on her various placings, feedback received from judges, and other realistic show day experiences.

Ashlyn shares her positive experiences working with Jamie Bernard of FitBody Fusion, and expresses how her life has changed since joining the team. She goes on to talk about how Jamie’s mentorship has been a springboard for Ashlyn to influence and inspire athletes of her own. Celeste asks essential questions about show day presentation, and how to find and perfect show day polish.

The pair discuss Ashlyn’s podcast, The Center Stage, which she co-hosts with fellow IFBB Professional Beatriz Biscaia. They go on to talk through the importance of showing up for yourself, defining factors between those who turn pro and those who do not, and how the ultimate goal for bikini athletes is not a trophy or placing - but rather to persist, improve and bring your personal best each and every time.

Connect with Ashlyn: https://instagram.com/ab_bikinifit
Connect with Celeste: https://instagram.com/celestial_fit

Episode Timestamps
[00:45] Celeste re-introduces Ashlyn onto the show, outlining her past goals which have become current realities.
[1:36] Celeste mentions some of Ashlyns contributions to the bodybuilding community
[2:20] Ashlyn talks about her successful rookie season, leading up to her 2020 Olympia qualification
[4:00] Ashlyn discuss some of the overlooked aspects of being an amateur, and how she improved her polish as a pro athlete
[5:25] Ashlyn talks about her San Antonio Pro debut, placing, suit colors and her overall look
[6:40] Ashlyn talks about her best and worst placings, and the different variables between them
[10:33] Ashlyn mentions her 8 week break, re-starting her season, and Pre-Covid show plans
[11:50] Ashlyn talks about her Northern California show and competing after a longer than anticipated off-season
[12:15] Ashlyn discusses her positive post-show feedback w head judge Sandy
[13:12] Ashlyn talks about her decision to compete next to olympians if she wishes to step on the Olympia stage
[13:50] Ashlyn discusses the Tampa Pro and placing 3rd
[14:56] Ashlyn discusses the judges feedback from the Tampa Pro
[15:39] Ashlyn talks about her driving motivator; feedback.
[15:26] Ashlyn talks about her Klash championship experience
[16:36] Ashlyn mentions drastically changing her posing the night before Klash and the stressors that came along with that decision
[19:12] Ashlyn talks about the importance of a coach, and trusting them with everything
[20:08] Ashlyn mentions the success that came with her posing modifications
[20:51] Celeste reiterates the importance of “the outcome does not matter” and how that contributes to Ashlyn’s success as an athlete
[21:46] Ashlyn discusses how she loves the challenges of bodybuilding, and how that motivates her to be better
[22:36] Ashlyn talks about the insignificance of placing to her, because of her pure passion for the sport itself
[22:50] Celeste questions about doubts arising backstage, if Ashlyn ever experiences such situations
[22:13] Ashlyn truthfully responds to Celestes question, and discuses how doubt is something we all experience
[24:44] Celeste asks Ashlyn about her polish and presentation and how she made her decisions regarding these important aspects of competing
[25:20] Ashlyn talks about how she used the feedback from judges to make future decisions
[26:10] Ashlyn points out that having a natural hair color is more of what the judges are looking for
[26:30] Ashlyn talks about her previous show looks and feedback from the judges on each of them
[29:00] Ashlyn talks about her decision to stick to more neutral colors for her overall look
[30:00] Ashlyn talks about the hair and makeup colors that work well for her
[30:35] Ashlyn mentions the importance of constantly getting feedback from judges and working on their feedback
[31:20] Ashlyn talks about some of the aspects she is still tweaking to improve her overall look
[31:45] Ashlyn mentions her plans to do a show before competing in the 2020 Olympia
[33:08] Celeste inquires about what feedback Ashlyn is currently focusing on
[33:42] Ashlyn discusses the feedback she received from both Tyler and Sandy at the NY Pro and how she will incorporate that into upcoming shows
[35:53] Celeste asks Ashlyn to talk about her short mini break, and how this differed from a regular post show break
[36:25] Ashlyn discusses how she wanted to take a break from tracking while traveling with her husband, and how she hit her goals while still enjoying herself
[38:20] Ashlyn mentions her eating plan before starting prep (2 weeks intuitive eating, 1 week tracking macros)
[38:45] Celeste talks about how enjoying yourself does not have to mean losing control of your identity, and having
[39:43] Celeste transitions into Ashlyn’s podcast, and the original goal/vision for the podcast
[40:14] Ashlyn talks about how her and co-host, Beatrice have shared their prep experiences on their podcast
[42:00] Celeste and Ashlyn talk about how their podcasts are a way to share experiences and inspire others through their platform
[44:00] Celeste comments on the many ways Ashlyn’s life has changed, and the various opportunities that have arisen because of these changes
[44:20] Ashlyn talks about how being uncomfortable promotes growth and provides challenge
[45:06] Ashlyn mentions the importance of having her coach to show her all of the ins and outs of the industry
[46:24] Celeste asks Ashlyn about some ways she encourages her clients to go for opportunities
[46:55] Ashlyn discusses one of her current clients and how they have successfully worked together, despite some obstacles
[48:42] Ashlyn talks about how she instills what Jamie gave her into her own clients to help them succeed.
[49:53] Celeste asks Ashlyn’s option on the separating factors between those who turn pro and those who do not
[50:22] Ashlyn talks about the inconsistencies of bikini and importance of continuing to show up.
[51:21] Ashlyn talks about how her own experiences with perfecting polish have defined her eye for her own athletes
[52:35] Ashlyn sets some healthy expectations for amateur athletes looking to turn pro
[53:46] Ashlyn talks about her mindset for every show is to get better
[54:33] Celeste asks about Ashlyn’s time management when prepping for shows
[54:55] Ashlyn mentions her process for maintaining a busy schedule and staying organized
[56:33] Celeste thanks Ashlyn for her insight and advices that she provided on the show
[57:08] Celeste asks Ashlyn to share how listeners can find her podcast or get touch with her

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STEFANIE ANTORCHA RETURNS; BamBody Nutrition Response to Allegations and Holiday Sneak Peeks, Building an Amazing Support Circle, and Reigniting Competition Mode

10/16/2020

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In this “comeback episode” Celeste sits down and talks with the “Brownie Boss” herself, creator of Bambody Nutrition, Stefanie Antorcha!

Celeste and Stefanie waste no time and kick off the episode addressing the recent allegations that were made against Bambody by other individuals in the industry.

Stefanie opens up and shares more about what actually happened, how the situation arose, and how she herself found out about these allegations and accusations. She starts from the beginning and shares the challenges she and her business were already facing due to the Covid-19 pandemic, and where she was when she initially found out what had been happening on social media.

Celeste then asks Stefanie about her initial feelings and reactions to the accusations that were being made against Bambody and their products.

While explaining the situation, Stefanie shares her passion for her business and its customers, and how she feels they have become a family. She expresses the gratitude she felt for deciding to sit down with her team and finding the most professional manner to address the situation instead of immediately firing back to accusations via social media. Stefanie expresses that she wanted to really connect with and squash doubts from customers and people who truly care and support the company instead of giving attention to the internet trolls.

Next, Celeste asks Stefanie if there are any details she wishes customers could have known about the complexities of the situation that attributed to why she couldn’t address the situation right away. Stefanie shares sympathy for her customers initial feelings, then explains in detail how they went about finding the lab and started the process of getting samples tested to have their own facts and results.

She explains the mix up with the postal service, the delay in delivering the packages containing their samples, and the toll that took on getting the lab results in a timely and efficient manner. Then, Stefanie explains that even upon obtaining the lab results she could not immediately share the results with customers.

She goes on to explain the intricacies and details of the results and how one would go about deciphering the numbers and percentages reflected, and why that took so much time for her to be able to properly interpret and communicate with customers. She also emphasizes the importance of being fully transparent with Bambody customers and her passion to always handle things the right way, comparing that to her feelings and values being a product consumer herself.

Celeste highlights Stefanie’s passion and dedication she has for always providing customers with the best product and the most information possible, without even being required to.

Celeste also touches on how her and other loyal customers questioned the claims against Bambody as they have been able to incorporate the treats into their daily nutrition plans and still achieve their goals.

Celeste also asks Stefanie to touch on the macro content and nutrition labels Bambody does provide customers and how it varies from the typical baked good or treat you find on grocery store shelves.

Transitioning from the process of and how Stefanie addressed the issue of the allegations made against Bambody, her and Celeste talk about the expanding product line and the changes Stefanie is making moving forward. Stefanie then breaks down the differences between the new lines; the Elite line, Guiltless Pleasure line, and the Indulgent line.

Next, Celeste and Stefanie talk about the new exciting holiday treats that will be releasing soon as the fall season is in full swing. After talking fun holiday releases Celeste asks if Stefanie ever gets creative at home and creates Bam treats outside of her official “Bambody kitchen.” Celeste also asks Stefanie if there are any Bambody treats that her friends and family love, yet she isn’t over the moon about.

Stefanie shares a brief history of the evolution of Bambody and how she first started experimenting with macro friendly treats as she wanted something that would satisfy her sweet tooth yet keep her on track for her fitness goals.

She talks about how she got into bodybuilding when the typical competition diet was the “chicken, broccoli, and rice” and how she wanted to add variety in a fun and tasty way.

Celeste also shares her personal experiences in finding Bambody products and how she felt it helped her mend her relationship with food and allow herself freedom and flexibility in her diet, as well as allow herself to have an indulgent sweet treat on a regular basis yet that also supports her and her goals.

Next, Celeste asks Stefanie about personal goals Stefanie has and she shares that she started working with a coach again and that she loves the idea of one day returning to the stage.

Then, the two women talk about Stefanie’s circle of friends and customers. Celeste asks Stefanie about the circle of love she has and maintains at all times and how she has developed such a strong support circle.

Concluding the episode Stefanie shares how listeners can further connect with and talk with her through her personal and business channels on social media.

CONNECT WITH STEFANIE HERE:
LEARN MORE ABOUT BAMBODY AND TRY THE DELICIOUSNESS HERE:
USE CELESTE'S MONTHLY DISCOUNT CODE TO SAVE! DM HER ON IG: @CELESTIAL_FIT OR VISIT HER LINKS PAGE TO SEE THE MONTH'S CODE :)

Episode Time Stamps:

[0:50] Celeste introduces Stefanie and mentions topics to be discussed in her return episode.

[2:30] Stefanie opens up about the allegations made against Bambody by other names in the industry.

[6:50] Celeste asks Stefanie about her initial feelings and reactions to the accusations being made against her company.

[9:50] Stefanie shares how she decided the best way to first address the situation as a business owner as opposed to letting emotions fuel her response, even on social media.

[12:20] Celeste asks Stefanie to walk customers through the complexities of the situation when it came to immediately addressing concerns and doubts that arose about Bambody products.

[16:20] Stefanie explains why the lab results were not immediately posted after receiving them and how they are difficult to understand by the “average consumer.”

[19:45] Celeste asks Stefanie if the lab was able to share the results of the previous tests, product quantity, etc. with Stefanie.

[23:00] Stefanie talks about the nutrition labels on Bambody products and how they differ from other treats made in mass quantities and produced in factories.

[27:15] Celeste has Stefanie elaborate on the new product lines and changes Bambody will be making & coming out with moving forward.

[33:20] Stefanie shares exciting new holiday treats that will soon be released.

[37:00] Celeste asks if Stefanie ever makes her own “Bam experiments” in her own kitchen/at home setting.

[38:40] Celeste asks Stefanie if theres any Bambody treats she is impartial to, yet her family and friends really enjoy.

[42:00] Celeste shares how Bambody has personally helped her on her mindset and competing journey and relationship with food.

[43:40] Stefanie shares some of her current personal goal.

[46:30] Stefanie talks about how she has developed a supportive, close circle of friends.

[52:40] Stefanie tells listeners how they can connect with her

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KATE ABATE RETURNS; Healthspan, Synergy Between Multiple Disciplines, Crisis Counseling, and Catering Approach to Body's Needs

10/9/2020

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In episode two of the Returning Guest series, host Celeste Rains-Turk sits down for a second time with Crisis Counselor, Master student of gerontology, Registered Yoga Teacher and Certified Personal Trainer, Kate Abate to dig deeper into Kate’s life outside of competing.

Although she is not actively competing, Kate shares how she has continued to make her body a priority. As discussed on her previous episode, Kate has struggled with her gut health and talks about her continued journey to improve her digestion. She shares about the Autoimmune diet she has been following and it’s impact on her overall gut health and colitis.

Beyond that, Kate discusses her own hypermobility and the levels it can work at outside of simply “being flexible”. She shares how the hypermobility works its way down to her internal organs and joints and the correlation that exists between her hypermobility and her physical and mental health.

Kate studies gerontology which is the study of the aging process. Kate talks about the aging process as growth and development. She talks about how even though the body no longer grows taller, it grows and develops in many other fascinating ways. She specifically talks about mental health in the older population by asking the question, “Have you ever seen an 80 year old freaking out and stressed about something?”

Because she is receiving this new degree, Kate talks about how she wants to expand her business once she receives her diploma. Just like getting this degree is allowing her to “pivot” in her own life, Kate wants to be able to reach those who have also reached a pivot point in their life, whether it be in fitness, lifestyle, wellbeing or even a financial pivot. Even through all of this future planning, Kate shares how she is able to bring herself back to the present moment and enjoy every day.

As the episode progresses, Kate talks about how she began her career in crisis counseling, stemming from trauma she experienced in her own childhood and in her 20s. She talks about how she was able to heal from this trauma and how she used a difficult time in her life to launch her into the world that is crisis counseling. Kate shares some of the best things that have come to her personally from crisis counseling and how to speak out when feeling the shame that is accompanied by the violence of a sexual assault.

In this powerful episode, Kate’s words inspire hope and optimism for the aging process, healing through trauma and sexual assault.

EPISODE TIME STAMPS:
[2:10] Kate’s focus while not actively competing
[4:04] New implementations to help with gut health
[9:15] Hypermobility
[12:15] Mental and physical needs evolving with age
[14:02] Aging as growth and development
[15:35] Correlation between mental health and hypermobility
[20:58] Pursuing higher education in gerontology
[24:50] Business vision
[28:45] How the interest in gerontology was sparked
[32:06] Bringing yourself back to the present while planning for the future
[36:02] Pivoting
[38:36] Experience as a crisis counselor
[41:12] The best things that came out of crisis counseling for her personally
[47:52] Having an open conversation regarding sexual assault
[52:04] Working through her own trauma
[57:47] Best advice for someone going through trauma

National Sexual Assault Telephone Hotline (RAINN) HOTLINE SUPPORT: https://www.rainn.org/about-national-sexual-assault-telephone-hotline

CONNECT WITH KATE:
www.instagram.com/misskateabate/
CONNECT WITH CELESTE:
www.instagram.com/celestial_fit/

Listen to Kate's First Episode Here

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TAMARA HADDAD RETURNS; Life After Competing, Letting go of Dependence on Drugs, Ego, Sex, & Low Vibes, Online Competitions

10/1/2020

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In this week's episode, Celeste Rains-Turk reintroduces Tamara Haddad, a previous guest from the beginning of her podcast who has since retired from the IFBB division. While she may be retired from competing, Tamara is still well-known for her excellent posing coaching and active in supporting other competitors.

To Begin, Tamara opens up to Celeste about her last show, the Arnold Classic Australia, in 2017. She admits to post-show months of rebounding, feeling depressed, and unmotivated. Tamara explains how her biggest struggle was learning how to balance fitness as a lifestyle instead of a competition.

She states it took approximately 9 months to get back into shape and how the slow and steady approach gave her the lifestyle shape she always dreamed of having. Tamara is thankful to have had the chance to compete at The Arnold and Olympia and uses her experiences to coach other competitors to these elite stages.

Tamara explains how the hardest part about overcoming post-competing blues is the mental changes and lifestyle adaptations.

Tamara tells Celeste how she used to believe you couldn’t take rest days, and now realizes that taking rest days allows for muscles to heal, bones to repair, and mind recovery. Tamara no longer has food guilt and chooses to eat three fuller meals instead of five portion-controlled meals.

Tamara and Celeste discuss the heavy and often disregarded topic of addiction in the bodybuilding sport. Tamara admits she was addicted to competing, Adderall, Xanax, and relationships which reared its ugly head after retiring.

Tamara decided to cleanse her body, mind, and soul and admits to having a predisposition to extreme addictive characteristics. She started her recovery by doing a 90-day commitment, sun healing, and focusing on spiritual growth.

While Tamara was afraid of her true self without the title of IFBB pro champion, she worked with God to release those stigmas. Tamara happily expresses she is now three months clean of prescription substances!

Tamara states how online competitions is “the future of bodybuilding”. She praises the division for transforming to an online stage and is pleasantly surprised how successful the first one was in July. In the future, she is hoping the Top 10 gets more prize money to help boost audience participation and reimburse competitors for their hard work.

Finally, Tamara gives viewers advice to competitors who feel addicted to the identity of the sport. Tamara’s honesty and open conversations provide an episode you do not want to miss!

Connect with Tamara Here:
www.instagram.com/tamarahaddad7/

Connect with Celeste Here:
www.instagram.com/celestial_fit/

TIME STAMPS:
[3:24] Life and Goals after retiring from the IFBB division
[8:52] Learning to step away from the extremes of competing
[16:56] Tamara’s spirituality, addiction to prescription drugs, and healing.
[23:24] Staying abstinent/avoiding masturbation/raising your vibrations
[35:21] Tamara discusses her opinion on online competitions
[46:56 ] Advice to competitors who feel addicted to the sport

Click Here to Listen to the 1st
Episode of the Podcast
Featuring Tamara!

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ASHLYN BROWN RETURNS; Pro Debut to Olympia Dreams Coming True, Perfecting Your Look, Feedback Focused, and Putting Yourself Out There

STEFANIE ANTORCHA RETURNS; BamBody Nutrition Response to Allegations and Holiday Sneak Peeks, Building an Amazing Support Circle, and Reigniting Competition Mode

KATE ABATE RETURNS; Healthspan, Synergy Between Multiple Disciplines, Crisis Counseling, and Catering Approach to Body's Needs

TAMARA HADDAD RETURNS; Life After Competing, Letting go of Dependence on Drugs, Ego, Sex, & Low Vibes, Online Competitions

Confessions of a Bikini Pro Podcast

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