The Confessions of a Bikini Pro Podcast was established in May of 2018 as the first and only place where IFBB Bikini Pros share their struggles, strategies, stories, insights, and advice in a real, raw, and vulnerable setting. Host, Celeste Rains-Turk, dives into the parts of these professionals' lives that aren't always openly discussed in the public eye or on social media (You know, the stuff we tend to wonder about the most).
The goal of this podcast is to educate, inspire, and remind other competitors, athletes, or the average gym goer that even the most elite professionals face hardships, health problems, mental obstacles, and other adversities.
There are a wide range of topics discussed including, but DEFINITELY NOT limited to; post-show rebound, health complications, eating disorders, mental illnesses, winning mindset, dealing with losses, judges feedback, approaches to the stage, life outside of competing, money, relationships, philosophy, pursuing passions, and SO MUCH MORE!
All show notes, episode time stamps, links, and information can be found on www.celestial.fit/podcast
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SANDY ARAVE; Rodeo Mom to Masters Champion, Living through Grief, Don’t Chase The Card, Say Yes More
In today’s episode, I sit down with IFBB Pro Sandy Arave, a 55-year-old high school counselor whose path to bodybuilding success is anything but conventional. Sandy began competing in 2022 and earned her Pro card at North Americans in 2024. In 2025, she made her Pro debut and went on to win two Pro shows in the 55+ categories.
Before bodybuilding, Sandy lived a very different competitive life as a barrel racer, competing at professional rodeos. Her journey into the sport came alongside navigating grief, health challenges, and major life transitions. This conversation is an honest look at resilience, purpose, and why chasing growth matters more than chasing a card.
TOPICS COVERED
-Living and competing through grief and trauma
-Transitioning from competitive barrel racing to bodybuilding
-Building and leaning on a strong support system
-Lessons learned through failure and setbacks
-Being a role model at any age
-Prioritizing health while pursuing big goals
CONNECT WITH CELESTE:
Website:http://www.celestial.fit
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All Links:http://www.celestial.fit/links.html
CONNECT WITH SANDY:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sandytaylorarave_ifbbpro/
TIME STAMPS
1:00 introduction
3:14 having a competitive nature
5:53 life before competing
13:13 balance work life and competing
16:56 competing through grief
26:41 how grief has impacted her life
35:16 taking chances
43:10 advice for balancing life and competing
52:35 making her Pro debut
59:30 dealing with thyroid issues
66:38 prioritizing health
73:05 advice for competitors
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