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 GIVEAWAYSimone 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 functionSodium to Magnesium influences stress resilience and recoveryCalcium to Phosphorus affects energy and nervous system functionZinc to Copper regulates hormones, immunity, and moodSodium to Potassium plays a key role in adrenal function and hydrationAfter 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 podcastMake sure you keep up with the podcast on social media for previews and details about upcoming guest speakers.Instagram: @thebackstagebikinipodcastHost: @jadeleahegartyAvailable 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: @thebackstagebikinipodcastHost: @jadeleahegartyAvailable 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.comKeep 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: @thebackstagebikinipodcastHost: @jadeleahegartyAvailable 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

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 us on social media for previews and details about upcoming guest speakers.Instagram: @thebackstagebikinipodcastHosts: @gracemannion_ | @jadeleahegartyAvailable 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 us on social media for previews and details about upcoming guest speakers.Instagram: @thebackstagebikinipodcastHosts: @gracemannion_ | @jadeleahegartyAvailable 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

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 us on social media for previews and details about upcoming guest speakers.Instagram: @thebackstagebikinipodcastHosts: @gracemannion_ | @jadeleahegartyAvailable 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_ifbbproMake sure you keep up with us on social media for previews and details about upcoming guest speakers.Instagram: @thebackstagebikinipodcastHosts: @gracemannion_ | @jadeleahegartyAvailable 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 us on social media for previews and details about upcoming guest speakers.Instagram: @thebackstagebikinipodcastHosts: @gracemannion_ | @jadeleahegartyAvailable on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Youtube and Amazon Music.

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 us on social media for previews and details about upcoming guest speakers.Instagram: @thebackstagebikinipodcastHosts: @gracemannion_ | @jadeleahegartyAvailable on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Youtube and Amazon Music.

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:-Jami's introduction to the sport, her own competitive history and success and how that lead to the development of her coaching career;The evolution of the sport; inclusivity, pros and cons of the sport development and what challenges that brings;Specificities of coaching a bikini athlete, training and diet considerations, the importance of ensuring these are moulded to the individual athlete and how that has afforded her athletes success;Athlete mindset, variables to consider. The differences, if any, she has encountered managing athlete mindset at different levels of the sport;Fostering a strong coach/client relationship; how she feels this impacts her athletes both individually and as a team and how that influences longevity in the sport;Feedback management; where the value truly lies in receiving feedback and how she applies that with her athletes;Do's and don's in relation to protecting your competitive experience;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: @thebackstagebikinipodcastHosts: @gracemannion_ | @jadeleahegartyAvailable on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Youtube and Amazon Music.Make sure you keep up with us on social media for previews and details about upcoming guest speakers.Instagram: @thebackstagebikinipodcastHosts: @gracemannion_ | @jadeleahegartyAvailable on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Youtube and Amazon Music.

EP 51 Pittsburgh Pro Results & Review is now live on all platforms and we had the pleasure of inviting @marniefitIt 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 us on social media for previews and details about upcoming guest speakers.Instagram: @thebackstagebikinipodcastHosts: @gracemannion_ | @jadeleahegartyAvailable on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Youtube and Amazon Music.

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 us on social media for previews and details about upcoming guest speakers.Instagram: @thebackstagebikinipodcastHosts: @gracemannion_ | @jadeleahegartyAvailable on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Youtube and Amazon Music.

For EP 49, we had the pleasure of welcoming one of the UK's leading prep coaches, @amplified_nutrition head coach @jakewatts_ampJake 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 us on social media for previews and details about upcoming guest speakers.Instagram: @thebackstagebikinipodcastHosts: @gracemannion_ | @jadeleahegartyAvailable on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Youtube and Amazon Music.

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. ⭕️

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_emilyyAs 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 us on social media for previews and details about upcoming guest speakers.Instagram: @thebackstagebikinipodcastHosts: @gracemannion_ | @jadeleahegartyAvailable on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Youtube and Amazon Music.

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 us on social media for previews and details about upcoming guest speakers.Instagram: @thebackstagebikinipodcastHosts: @gracemannion_ | @jadeleahegartyAvailable on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Youtube and Amazon Music.

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 us on social media for previews and details about upcoming guest speakers.Instagram: @thebackstagebikinipodcastHosts: @gracemannion_ | @jadeleahegartyAvailable on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Youtube and Amazon Music.

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 us on social media for previews and details about upcoming guest speakers.Instagram: @thebackstagebikinipodcastHosts: @gracemannion_ | @jadeleahegartyAvailable on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Youtube and Amazon Music.

Our final episode of the year is live and it was a perfect opportunity to reflect on our year, to celebrate the success of the podcast and thank everyone for help make our dream a reality.It's been a transformative year for us both and we are incredibly grateful for the year we've had. The highs, the lows and everything in between.Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.Jade and Grace The Backstage Bikini Podcast xMake sure you keep up with us on social media for previews and details about upcoming guest speakers.Instagram: @thebackstagebikinipodcastHosts: @gracemannion_ | @jadeleahegartyAvailable on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Youtube and Amazon Music.

This week we had the absolute pleasure of welcoming Bikini Olympian, @allisontestu on the podcast.Allison has been nothing but an inspiration to both Grace and Jade and we have each followed Alison's competitive career from back when she was an amateur athlete, so to have the opportunity to sit with her and discuss her career, her recent decisions surrounding which division she felt she belonged in, was such an honour.In this episode we discuss:How Allison came to be an IFBB Pro Bikini Athlete, her background and what led her to competitive bodybuildingHer experiences in competing for different federations and why she chose the NPC/IFBBHer biggest struggles since becoming a professional athleteBikini vs wellness, where she belongs, considerations surrounding choices to pursue a career in wellnessOff season vs prep, how does this differ for her?Posing for the bikini criteria, feedback she has received and how she manipulates her lookHer future plans and upcoming competitive seasonAnd so much more.It was an incredible chat and in particular Allison's values and passion for her health and for the sport truly shon through! We are so grateful to have spoken with her and look forward to following her career!You can follow Allison at @allisontestu and you can also submit enquiries for posing with her via Instagram as well.Make sure you keep up with us on social media for previews and details about upcoming guest speakers.Instagram: @thebackstagebikinipodcastHosts: @gracemannion_ | @jadeleahegartyAvailable on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Youtube and Amazon Music.

EP 41 is now live on all platforms and this week we got to sit down and talk all things glam with @daniellespencer_makeupDanielle has been a leading MUA and stylist in the bodybuilding industry for as long as Grace and I have been competing.In this episode we cover DIY make up looks, dos and don'ts, tips, tricks and lots of recommendations to armour you with all you could possibly need to choose your stage glam. Danielle has a wealth of knowledge and with the limited time us ladies get to truly shine on stage, it's so important we get the look right, so that we're bringing the very best version of ourselves as athletes, and individuals, to stage.You can follow Danielle at @daniellespencer_makeup and enquire all about her showday services with her too!If you do enjoy this episode please be sure to share and tag us on social media!Make sure you keep up with us on social media for previews and details about upcoming guest speakers.Instagram: @thebackstagebikinipodcastHosts: @gracemannion_ | @jadeleahegartyAvailable on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Youtube and Amazon Music.

EP 40 is now live and we welcome Supplement Needs formulator, educator and pharmacologist @deanstm on the podcast.​​We have been dying to open up the floor for you all, to discuss the impact this sport can have on your hormonal health and fertility and we could think of no one better than Dean to throw ours, and more importantly our listeners, questions out for open discussion.​​In this episode we discuss:​​- What is meant by hormonal replacement therapy, what is it's objective and how do the mechanics differ between male and female athletes;- What are the impacts of competing on overall hormonal health, what can we come to expect by pushing our bodies to this extreme;- Considerations prior to the introduction of hormone replacement; knee jerk reactions and common mistakes when it comes to introducing replacement therapies;- The importance and role of blood work and how this can help make educated and informed decisions;- Fertility and the impact of prolonged exposure to the sport, what considerations need to be made if having a family is a long term goal;- Femtest, what is its role and why are we seeing a rise in administrations to female athletes;- Performance enhancement and hormonal implications, what differs when managing an enhanced athlete's health, vs an athlete that competes naturally;​​And so much more.​​This episode is by no means meant to be prescriptive and all decisions in relation to the introduction of any therapy or performance enhancement shouldn't be made without consultation with a registered medical professional and with appropriate education around the topic, your coach.​​An incredibly valuable conversation and one we hope will equip our listeners with the tools to ask pertinent questions when it comes to their health in the sport.​​You can access further in depth information on www.sneducation.co.uk.You can explore Supplement Needs female range, and all your supplementation needs at www.supplementneeds.co.uk​​Follow Dean at @deanstm @sn_education_@supplement_needsMake sure you keep up with us on social media for previews and details about upcoming guest speakers.Instagram: @thebackstagebikinipodcastHosts: @gracemannion_ | @jadeleahegartyAvailable on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Youtube and Amazon Music.

Our Bikini Olympia 2023 review is now live across all platforms, and Jade and I are sitting down to unpack the aftermath and all the electrifying moments from the Super Bowl of Bodybuilding!We're diving deep into the best physiques in the world, exploring their stage presence and the remarkable improvements showcased by the athletes.Also celebrating our 2023 Olympia Champ, Jennifer Dorie, who clinched the prestigious title for the second time!Our honest thoughts on each athlete, coupled with our personal favourite looks and standout moments.As always, our opinions are unfiltered and entirely our own.Whether you're a seasoned competitor or simply a fan of watching the best of the best within the sport, this episode is a must watch.Tune in, relive the triumphs, and join the discussion.Did the athletes exceed expectations, or did some bring unexpected surprises?Make sure you keep up with us on social media for previews and details about upcoming guest speakers.Instagram: @thebackstagebikinipodcastHosts: @gracemannion_ | @jadeleahegartyAvailable on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Youtube and Amazon Music.

In this episode we welcome @rachelvsymons to predict this years Bikini Olympia placings!It was an honour to have Rachel host this podcast with us. She follows the division avidly and has been a die hard listener and supporter of the podcast ever since it launched, so it was a pleasure to share the mic with her this week.With 52 athletes qualifying this year, the show will certainly not disappoint. It's an incredibly competitive line up, made up of our most beloved icons but also some new pro athletes emerging and well and truly making their mark this year qualifying to stand on the prestigious @mrolympiallc stage.This week we talk through our predicted placings  and provide our own views about why we think there is all to play for at this years Olympia.We want to hear your predictions! Let us know your views, whether you agree or disagree with the predictions and who is your Miss Bikini Olympia Champ ahead of the weekend? As always these are our views only and we have nothing but admiration for ladies stepping on stage, each one is worthy of being celebrated and supported no matter the opinion shared.Make sure you keep up with us on social media for previews and details about upcoming guest speakers.Instagram: @thebackstagebikinipodcastHosts: @gracemannion_ | @jadeleahegartyAvailable on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Youtube and Amazon Music.

WERE BACK! And we have the pleasure of introducing EP 37 with former bikini competitor, Nutritionist, CBT therapist and one half of @theflourishing.society Charlotte Pickstock @charlypfit.We're entering the latter end of the competitive year and with that comes a lot of challenges that a lot of competitors will undoubtedly face, so it was an invaluable opportunity to get Charly on to discuss not only her own experiences and the work she's currently doing with competitors.In this episode we cover- Charly's competing journey, her history in the sport and what contributed to her decision to step away from stage;- The Flourishing Society; what motivated you to create this community and what support they provide;- Common issues which arise for her clients and how common are these in the industry right now? - How can an athlete separate what is “normal”, post show struggles versus those that are more chronic and may require more intensive support;- Red flags when it comes to someone's relationship with food and their body, steps you can take to overcome these;- Is it possible to address issues surrounding bodybuilding and relationships and return to stage? - Addressing your identity beyond bodybuilding; struggles people face and how to overcome them;- Others opinions, the community and the message which is being received externally and impact that has on post show, stepping away from stage;- Coaching and client responsibilities to manage an athletes exposure to the sport and their journey from start to finish;And so much more.This conversation really brought home the importance of addressing and supporting an athletes experience in the sport beyond just the physique.We hope you loved this just as much as we did.You can find Charly, and the Flourishing Society at: @charlypfit & @theflourishing.societyMake sure you keep up with us on social media for previews and details about upcoming guest speakers.Instagram: @thebackstagebikinipodcastHosts: @gracemannion_ | @jadeleahegartyAvailable on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Youtube and Amazon Music.

EP 36 is now live and we had the sincere pleasure of chatting to 2x Miss Olympia and 4x Arnold Classic Bikini Champion, Angelica Teixeira.Yet another surreal moment for Grace and Jade; Angelica embodies everything that a true champion and icon of the sport should, and despite stepping away from competing since her last season in 2020, she remains to many, the bikini standard!In this episode we discuss:-  Angelica's background, how she got into competing, her competitive career to date and what her aspirations were when she entered the sport; - Bikini now vs then, what's changed? The evolving standard and how she thinks that has impacted the accessibility of the sport;- Setbacks and success, what were her greatest challenges along the way?- Mindset, managing losses and how that impacted her?- Angelica is still considered to be the standard of the bikini division; how does that make her feel and how did she manage the pressures that came with carrying that mantle?- Becoming a mum; how did she navigate that process from an identity standpoint?-What the future holds for her;And so much more. This is probably one of the most inspiring conversations Grace and Jade have had and one that will stay with us forever. You can follow Angelica on Instagram: @angelicaht and all coaching enquiries can be found via @fitbodyfusionMake sure you keep up with us on social media for previews and details about upcoming guest speakers.Instagram: @thebackstagebikinipodcastHosts: @gracemannion_ | @jadeleahegartyAvailable on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Youtube and Amazon Music.

In today's episode we are hosting a Sheru Classic UK Results and Review podcast and we had the pleasure of discussing the results with none other than Hannah Wares.  This was a highly anticipated pro/AM show with amateur athletes competing for not only the pro card, but a chance to compete in a pro bikini line up the same day! We had some huge names from the European and UK bikini scene and we couldn't wait to see which of the 24 beautiful athletes were going to take the ticket to the Olympia.  Hannah has years of experience in the sport and is present at 99% of the shows hosted in the UK, constantly immersing herself in the bodybuilding space,  so we could think of no one else to hop on the podcast and share their views. 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.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 them all.Make sure you keep up with us on social media for previews and details about upcoming guest speakers.Instagram: @thebackstagebikinipodcastHosts: @gracemannion_ | @jadeleahegartyAvailable on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Youtube and Amazon Music.

For Episode 34, we had the pleasure of speaking to IFBB Bikini Pro Emily Olivia.​​As a lifetime natural athlete, Emily is incredibly passionate about exhausting her natural potential in this sport, which is a message we feel has been lost over recent years in the pursuit of fast success.​​In this episode Emily covers:​ - Her competing background; her experience of competing in multiple federations and finding her home in the IFBB;- Her success leading up to her Pro win and the challenges she faced with her mindset along the way;- Competing as a natural athlete and the importance of off season; her scale progress, different approaches, things she has learned with each approach;- Post show experiences; food relationships, ​ learning how her body and mind responds and managing the impact of poor decisions; - Managing competing year on year; has that had an impact on her physiologically, how she manages her prep and time away from stage. - Pressures and the stigma of performance enhancement; her experiences within the sport- Current and future competing plans in the Pro League;- Advice for competitors who are new to the sport and contemplating their potential success as a natural athlete​​It was an incredibly important conversation to have and Emily doesn't hold back in sharing her experiences. Her transparency and honesty is something Grace and I truly admire and we hope her passion for competing naturally, reaches those athletes that are still finding their feet in this sport, and helps athletes make educated decisions beyond this podcast.​​You can follow Emily's career, hit up for posing and coaching at @emilyoliviaifbbproMake sure you keep up with us on social media for previews and details about upcoming guest speakers.Instagram: @thebackstagebikinipodcastHosts: @gracemannion_ | @jadeleahegartyAvailable on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Youtube and Amazon Music.

Episode 33 is now live and it was nothing short of an honour to have Team Elite Physique founder, global bikini prep coach, Adam Bonilla on the podcast this week.Adam truly has been a pioneer in representing the bikini division. He dedicates his time not only to applying that knowledge and passion to his athletes and practice, but to sharing information to a worldwide audience, all to make the division better understood and to ensure the division stays true to what it represents; an entry into female competitive bodybuilding.Adam covers :-- The bikini division then and now; evolution of the look;- Common mistakes and misconceptions he sees when it comes to coaching bikini athletes;- The artistry required to master the bikini look;- Disparity in judging; UK vs USA, does he think the judging is consistent worldwide? - How he as a coach manages judges feedback with his athletes;- Obstacles in relation to the current bikini standard, specifically for first time competitors but also those wanting to progress in the sport;- His take on where he thinks bikini is heading, how will the criteria evolve from here;- His predictions for the remainder of the year, who's stirring the Miss Bikini Olympia pot?Anybody aspiring to involve themselves in the sport, whether it's at a competitive level or you're a coach wanting to gain a better understanding of what is required, this episode is for you.We would love to hear your feedback on this one!Like, comment and subscribe and as always share us on your stories let us know what you think.You can follow Adam and the team at @teamelitephysiqueYouTube: https://youtube.com/@TeamElitePhysique?feature=sharecMake sure you keep up with us on social media for previews and details about upcoming guest speakers.Instagram: @thebackstagebikinipodcastHosts: @gracemannion_ | @jadeleahegartyAvailable on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Youtube and Amazon Music.

For EP 32 we had the privilege of chatting to IFBB Bikini Pro and Olympian, Aimee Delgado. ​​Aimee has had incredible success since turning pro in 2020, rocketing to the top taking top 6 in her first ever @olympiallc in 2022. So far in 2023 she has taken the champion titles of the prestigious NY Pro and Pittsburgh Pro as well as the Wasatch Warrior & Klash Series. All qualifying her for the 2023 Olympia.​​It's been an upward trajectory ever since she started competing and we couldn't wait to sit down with her and chat about what this journey meant to her and how she's manoeuvred home life, her mindset and everything in between, whilst competing at the highest level.​​In this episode Aimee covers:​​- Her background, previous athletic endeavours and how that shaped her as a bikini athlete- Mastering her mindset, self discovery and how much bodybuilding has given back;- Her experiences being coached by @jamidebernard at @fitbodyfusion, and how that coaching relationship has shaped her as an athlete;- Her competitive accolades and journey, turning pro, competing at the pro level and her journey to the Olympia stage;- Her struggles and set backs, has she had times during her journey where she has questioned her success or ability?- Life on and off season, how she manages her family life, her approach to achieving a balance that suits her;- Training development over her years, the gruelling reality of how she built her physique;- Feedback she has received, when and what feedback is important to her development as an athlete and how she applies that from show to show;- What's next, when is she prepping, future shows and her Olympia game plan;- Advice for competitors, first timers, mums who want to compete and anybody wanting to take that top spot. ​​And so much more.​​This conversation was so profound. To understand the dedication, commitment and discipline Aimee embodies truly does spark a lot of admiration. This is a way of life for her and her success is a byproduct of her commitment to bringing nothing but 150% to anything she does. ​​If you do enjoy this episode, please be sure to share and tag us on your stories. We would love to also hear your feedback!​​Book your Posing Session with Aimee at:www.fitnessbyaims.com ​Follow Aimee's YouTube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/@fitnessbyaims​Follow Aimee on Instagram @fitnessbyaimsMake sure you keep up with us on social media for previews and details about upcoming guest speakers.Instagram: @thebackstagebikinipodcastHosts: @gracemannion_ | @jadeleahegartyAvailable on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Youtube and Amazon Music.

EP 31 is now live and we had the pleasure of speaking to PCA Pro Bikini Athlete and Hyrox queen, Jess Garrington. If you have followed Jess's journey like we have, you'll have observed her incredible success as a bikini athlete across multiple federations and recently noticed her current switch to Hyrox style of training. We were extremely excited to talk to Jess about this new interest and how she is finding making room for a new approach to training. In this episode we cover:- How Jess got into competing, her motivations out of the gate and initial goals;- Her experience competing in multiple federations, how she manipulated her physique to fit each criteria and the lessons she learned along the way;- Food relationships and how those have been affected throughout her competitive career, how did she address those and at what stage did she identify a need for support;- What her training looks like now; Hyrox, her focus on performance, has that impacted her relationship with herself in any way?- Jess's priorities and goals now, how does competing slot in? Cycle related concerns and considerations she has made in relation to her priorities as they are now;- Top tips for first timers or new competitors…And all the chat we love in between! It was an honour to chat to Jess and much of her mindset and approach to competing as a bikini athlete is something to be admired. Follow her journey at @jessgarrington and make sure you send us your feedback, share the episode and the love for this amazing conversation.Make sure you keep up with us on social media for previews and details about upcoming guest speakers.Instagram: @thebackstagebikinipodcastHosts: @gracemannion_ | @jadeleahegartyAvailable on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Youtube and Amazon Music.

Ep 30, yes 30!! Is now live and we had the pleasure of speaking with founder of @physiquecollective UK educator and coach, Joe Jeffrey.We were particularly excited to have Joe on the podcast not only because his work is known widely among competitors and coaches in the bodybuilding space, but also as he is renowned for his fluidity when it comes to coaching approaches.His focus is results, based on evidence and findings and he by no means sits in one camp. Quite the opposite, so we couldn't wait to pick his brains.In this episode we cover:-Joe's background: How did he get involved in bodybuilding and coaching competitors? -The ever evolving bikini criteria; how has coaching a bikini athlete evolved over the years, how does it differ to other categories, notable shifts and considerations that have to be made when coaching female bikini athletes.-Criteria nuances between federations, how does one federation compare to another? -The secret sauce, or not of “Peaking” a bikini athlete.-PEDs and managing a long show season/peaking from show to show. Preferred compounds leading into show; diuretics, necessary or not for bikini? -Implications for athletes who are assisted and those who are natural; considerations in relation to diet, training, peaking and reversing out from show.  -Recovery and managing fatigue for bikini athletes; more or less challenging?-PED red flags for the division: are there any compounds Joe would strictly avoid when it comes to female bikini athletes? Considerations in relation to duration and amount of exposure to compounds, research in relation to thyroid recovery post thyroid therapies etc-Reversing out from a show; primary objectives when it comes to reversing for bath assisted and natural athletes? This one will have your brain buzzing! We could have spoken to Joe for hours and will undoubtedly have him back on for a future episode. You can learn more about some of the topics covered, and endless other topics by subscribing to @physiquecollective app.Don't forget to follow Joe and his team and all of their athletes too.Make sure you keep up with us on social media for previews and details about upcoming guest speakers.Instagram: @thebackstagebikinipodcastHosts: @gracemannion_ | @jadeleahegartyAvailable on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Youtube and Amazon Music.

EP 29 is now live and this weeks episode is an unscheduled but highly requested podcast this week about competing for the very first time. Grace and Jade both have incredibly fond memories of their first preps but it undoubtedly came with its challenges. In this episode we strip it right back. We discuss all of the small steps we believe, collectively, amount to a successful prep.We cover:- hiring the right coach for you, dos and donts in terms of what to look for when hiring a coach to help you navigate your bodybuilding journey;—Why you should “off-season”, pros to approaching a building phase, understanding your start point and setting yourself up for success;- risks in relation to pre existing concerns or issues, food relationships, restriction, body image and training and eating habits. - prep, is it for you? best practice and ways to test the water when it comes to the demands of a prep diet, photoshoots, testing your tolerance, enjoyment, adherence and dedication.  - relationships, sacrifices and acknowledging your responsibilities and limitations when it comes to socialising.- finances -and budgeting, costs associated with prepping, competing abroad and tricks to save a few pennies along the way. - the mental impact of competing, managing new emotions, dealing with self-doubt, pressure and the ever evolving presence of social media - expectations as a first time competitor, positioning yourself to make the most out of your competing journey, tips on remaining present.- the long awaited show day, how to familiarise yourself with what to expect on the day, glam, placings, emerging yourself in the community and not missing a photo op; and- handling post show, managing expectations in relation to weight gain, removing the shame and taking each day as it comes.This was an incredibly important topic, one which Grace and Jade really enjoyed unpicking. Head over to our IG @thebackstagebikinipodcast and click on the link in the bio for links to the resources we mention throughout the podcast!Let us know your thoughts and if you're a first time competitor, let us know how you're finding your first experience of prep!Make sure you keep up with us on social media for previews and details about upcoming guest speakers.Instagram: @thebackstagebikinipodcastHosts: @gracemannion_ | @jadeleahegartyAvailable on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Youtube and Amazon Music.

For EP 28 we had the privilege of chatting to IFBB Bikini Pro and your 2022 Miss Bikini Olympia, Maureen Blanquisco. To put it plainly, this was a dream come true for Grace and Jade. Maureen won the prestigious @mrolympia in 2022 and is your reigning champ and Miss Bikini Olympia and she graciously took some time to sit down with us both to share her journey.In this episode Maureen covers:- Her background, life before competing and what and who exposed her to the sport;- Her competitive accolades and journey, turning pro, competing at the pro level and her journey to the Olympia stage;- Her culture, mindset and life experiences and how they have shaped the athlete she is today;- Life on and off season, how she manages both, her approach to achieving a balance that suits her;- The secret weapon to becoming Miss Bikini Olympia;- Training protocols for both off season and prep, how she approaches both;- Obstacles she may have faced, how she deals with adversity or negativity within the sport;- Her future goals, following her success at the Olympia, what's next, when is she prepping, what's her priority over the next few years;- Advice for competitors wanting to compete at the highest level…And so much more.Maureen embodies all that a champion is. Her humility, tenacity, can do attitude and kindness shon through and above all else, her passion lies not only within this sport but in sharing information that will help others love the sport, just as much as she does.We probably won't stop listening to this one ourselves.Grab a notepad, and take note. This is how to become a champion.You can find Maureen at @maureenblanquisco.pro and follow her journey on YouTube and TikTok!Make sure you keep up with us on social media for previews and details about upcoming guest speakers.Instagram: @thebackstagebikinipodcastHosts: @gracemannion_ | @jadeleahegartyAvailable on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Youtube and Amazon Music.

This week's episode is a catch up with none other than IFBB Bikini Pro Kerry SextonKerry has been competing for almost a decade, transitioning from the old IFBB, competing in multiple federations, being the first PCA Pro bikini athlete, all the way through to obtaining her IFBB Pro Card in 2019.She has not been shy in sharing her journey with those that keep up to date with her, but we wanted to dig into where her competing interests came from, her background and what experiences she has had during her time competing, the value she has gained working with some of the industries leading coaches, and any challenges she has faced along the way. Get a cuppa for this one, or make sure your cardio session is a decent one

EP 26 IFBB New York Pro Results and Review is now live on all platforms!Only a week after the Pittsburgh pro and a notoriously high calibre show, we were blessed to watch some of the best in the bikini pro league, do their thing. We had a different line up this week, despite the vicinity to the Pittsburgh Pro and it was a great opportunity for the athletes to be compared against a new line up. This week 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.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. As always, 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! It was an absolute pleasure watching this show. Congratulations to all of the ladies who competed!Make sure you keep up with us on social media for previews and details about upcoming guest speakers.Instagram: @thebackstagebikinipodcastHosts: @gracemannion_ | @jadeleahegartyAvailable on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Youtube and Amazon Music.

EP 25 Pittsburgh Pro Results and Review is now live on all platforms!One of the most prestigious pro shows in the calendar, the representations from the Bikini Pro League did not disappoint. This show is a mini Olympia, stacked with Olympia qualified and former Miss Olympia athletes so we knew it would be a tough one! And my god it was! This week 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.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. As always, 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 them all.Make sure you keep up with us on social media for previews and details about upcoming guest speakers.Instagram: @thebackstagebikinipodcastHosts: @gracemannion_ | @jadeleahegartyAvailable on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Youtube and Amazon Music.

In this episode we have returning podcast royalty, Ross Byrne, discussing the impact of stress on athletes and the physical manifestations we all experience during both a prep and off season. We wanted to get Ross back on the podcast because he has an extensive amount of knowledge in relation to the physiological responses to stress but also has experience in dealing with athletes who react very differently to stress; he has seen both the negative and positive impacts stress can have during an athletes prep and had lots to share on what to consider when managing stress during the athlete journey. We cover:Stress, what is it, what is its function within the body, why do we produce it?The main drivers of stress during a prep?The impact of stress; considerations for managing stress in a prep setting;Common symptomology; how much is too much and where would he draw the line when it comes to identifying when stress becomes too much;Distinguishing between “normal” or accepted levels of stress within a prep and chronic stress; what symptoms should we be looking out for.Effects of stress on the overall look, managing peak week stress.External stressors; social media, life and the impact external stress can have on the physique.And much more.Stress is an inevitable byproduct of being an athlete but it's important you're able to identify what is necessary, vs levels of stress which may take away from the overall process.As always, we would love to hear your feedback on the episode. Be sure to like, share and subscribe on all platforms.If you have any questions for Ross, you can find him at @ross_teamprocoach Make sure you keep up with us on social media for previews and details about upcoming guest speakers.Instagram: @thebackstagebikinipodcastHosts: @gracemannion_ | @jadeleahegartyAvailable on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Youtube and Amazon Music.

Here is episode 23, and we couldn't wait to share this incredibly raw and honest chat with IFBB Bikini Pro @becdean_ifbbproBec's journey is very much one Grace and I followed and Grace in particular was present with, and no doubt it will be one our listeners will be familiar with too. What Becky shares within this episode however is incredibly vulnerable, she opens up about the realities of her achieving her pro status, how that impacted her mindset and she explains the turbulent road she's had to endure since winning her pro card. It's not one to miss; the lessons she has been forced to learn are lessons we should all keep at the forefront of our minds when navigating this sport!  We cover:— Becky's background, how she entered the sport, the appeal, her successes and what her expectations were;-her goals in that pinnacle season, was a pro card the goal? - Self doubt and self belief, at what point in her journey to achieving her pro status, did each have a role in her push towards that goal?- Life after winning her pro card; sharing the challenges she faced and is still managing even to this day;- How that has shaped her post show period and subsequent time away from stage, what mental and physical obstacles has she had to face and find a way to overcome and how has that impacted her view on competing and her status as a professional athlete;- Pressures which turning pro has brought about, social media, external expectation and managing the madness; - Becky's diagnosis of Hashimoto's disease and how her life has changed inside and outside of the sport as a result;- What her training and life looks like now? How she is approaching this phase of her life and future goals, if there are any at this stage;- Take home advice for first time athletes and athletes who have the ultimate goal of becoming a professional athlete.  And so much more.These are the conversations we live for on this podcast; sharing the things that matter and creating a platform for difficult conversations so that they may serve to support other people in similar circumstances or help prepare athletes for what might come in their journey for greatness. You can contact Becky for all your coaching and posing needs at @becdean_ifbbpro and to keep up  with her journey!As always, your feedback is hugely appreciated! Please like, share, subscribe and let us have your thoughts!Make sure you keep up with us on social media for previews and details about upcoming guest speakers.Instagram: @thebackstagebikinipodcastHosts: @gracemannion_ | @jadeleahegartyAvailable on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Youtube and Amazon Music.

EP 22 is now live and we had the honour of speaking with one of if not the most successful prep coach in the UK,  owner of @team_procoach , head coach and educator, Calum Raistrick. We would hope he needs very little introduction at this stage! This conversation was one we truly thought needed to be had and with Calum's extensive experience coaching athletes at all levels, from grass roots, to Olympia qualified athletes, we could think of nobody better to discuss the intricacies of the athlete mindset.This discussion was not limited to the bikini division alone and instead captured all athletes, and Calum provided an enormous amount of value which we know will serve athletes at any level and in any division. We cover: -  Calum's background, where he began coaching, how that transformed specifically into physique development and how his environment contributed to the coach he is today;-  The importance of distinguishing between internal and external pressures and how to manage those as an athlete;-  Managing athlete disappointment around placings, the pressures of maintaining performance to keep up appearances, how that impacts his clients and him as a coach;-  Supporting clients with fluctuating mindsets, bearing the weight of that burden for the client, providing support and sharing the pressure;-  Self doubt, are the pros as bullet proof as they might seem?-  Amateur vs Pro mindsets, is there a distinct difference? How does that level of support change subject to where in the process the athlete is?;-  Stress and peak week, mitigating pressure leading into a show, preserving the look and ensuring the athlete steps on stage fully prepared, mentally and physically… And so much more.As an athlete in a subjective sport, we are challenged physically. But the mental battle is often the difference between achieving our goals, or running for the back door.Calum has armoured us as hosts and athletes, with so many tools in such a short discussion and we couldn't wait to share this with you all. You can find Calum on Instagram at @calum_teamprocoach @team_procoach and keep up with him and his athletes journeys on YouTube!As always, don't forget to like, follow/subscribe and let us know your thoughts.Make sure you keep up with us on social media for previews and details about upcoming guest speakers.Instagram: @thebackstagebikinipodcastHosts: @gracemannion_ | @jadeleahegartyAvailable on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Youtube and Amazon Music.

In this  episode, Jade opens up for the first time in relation to her decision to step back from bodybuilding for an indefinite length of time, to prioritise other people and elements of her life.This episode exposes much of Jade's ongoing struggles with her identity beyond being an athlete, the feelings and thoughts she has had to experience and try and come to terms with, whilst she navigates a stressful and emotional time in both hers and her family's life.These thoughts and feelings can materialise in different parts of an athletes journey, whether that is dealing with and recovering from an injury, the post show period where the loss of one specific and direct goal can often leave us feeling a little lost, redirecting our priorities to building a family or committing to other endeavours, and so many other areas in our lives. It's for that reason that Jade has taken the opportunity to share something extremely personal and often painful, in the hope it makes others feel less alone in these circumstances.In this episode, Jade covers:Her most recent competitive season and how her life has changed over the last 9 months;The impact this has had on her commitment to bodybuildingChoices she had made as a result of a change in priorities and how that made her feel Current actions she is taking to try and mitigate the impact and what her training looks like now What the future looks like, aspirations and goals in bodybuilding and a realistic look at how achievable that might beThis is a vulnerable topic for Jade, one that has felt very isolating but she hopes that in sharing it, she will make it okay for others to speak out about this topic. Please let us know or feel free to reach out to Jade directly if you have been impacted by this episode or have any feedback. It's important to remember that all that makes you an incredible athlete, also makes you an incredible friend, partner, family member, colleague etc and that will always be enough. If there is anything Jade wants to hammer home in sharing this story, it's exactly that! Make sure you keep up with us on social media for previews and details about upcoming guest speakers.Instagram: @thebackstagebikinipodcastHosts: @gracemannion_ | @jadeleahegartyAvailable on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Youtube and Amazon Music.

For the full experience, we recommend you watch this one on Youtube!The first UK Pro/AM show to kick off the bodybuilding calendar for this year went ahead this weekend, with 9 Pro Cards up for grabs and both shows did not disappoint.This week we wanted to cover not only the pro placings but also celebrate and discuss the incredible talent coming through the amateur ranks.As always, 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! The standard continues to grow and these athletes are a perfect example of how much the bikini criteria is improving and developing in the UK. It was an incredible show and set a fantastic standard for the sport.Huge shout out to the newest crowned IFBB bikini pro, @marniefit , we are so proud of you!Make sure you keep up with us on social media for previews and details about upcoming guest speakers.Instagram: @thebackstagebikinipodcastHosts: @gracemannion_ | @jadeleahegartyAvailable on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Youtube and Amazon Music.

EP 19 is now live and we had the pleasure of speaking to an athlete and educator that needs very little in the way of introduction as her work speaks for itself. Cory Hageman, J3U educator, student nurse and IFBB bikini Pro! This was a truly incredible conversation. Cory has a wealth of knowledge and experience, and it is evident in the way that she speaks not only about herself but her clients, that she leaves no stone unturned.We wanted to delve specifically into Cory's education and ethos around PED usage and in particular the impact of non androgenic and androgenic steroid use in the bikini division. We cover: - Introduction to Cory's background, her career studies, where did the passion for learning come from and how that compelled her to educate a wider audience;- Is there a preferred way to introduce an athlete to compound use? How individual is that experience?- Bloodwork and athlete analysis when it comes to choosing the best path? Other considerations?- Thyroid therapies, long term effects, uses in and out of season;- Optimal deployment of androgenic compounds, how soon is too soon, off season vs prep and the advantages of deployment at certain windows;- Overprescribing for females and the bikini division;- Impacts of assistance on reproductive health, considerations to be made;- Common misconceptions in relation to use of assistance; - Questions you should be asking your coach;And so much more.This episode is definitely one where you will need a pen and paper! If you're new to understanding the uses of performance enhancement, we strongly recommend  you track back to episode 6, to brush up your knowledge.You can find Cory at @cory_fit and further education can be sourced via access to J3 University. Make sure you keep up with us on social media for previews and details about upcoming guest speakers.Instagram: @thebackstagebikinipodcastHosts: @gracemannion_ | @jadeleahegartyAvailable on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Youtube and Amazon Music.

In this raw and vulnerable episode, Grace discusses her experiences with low body image and body dysmorphia, and how therapy has helped her understand her thought processes, rationalise, and become more self-aware.It is not uncommon for competitors to experience body image struggles. It is something we can all go through at varying points in our journey. However, many competitors do not do the crucial mental work beyond just bodybuilding. Grace believes that doing so can ultimately help many competitors understand their feelings about their body, improve their relationship with the process of competing, and manage post-prep challenges.In this episode, Grace covers:Her childhood, body image growing up, and what exercise meant to herHow she felt in previous preps and how post-shows led her to struggle with weight gainThe difference in her 2022 prep and why she struggled so much with weight gain and seeing her body changeThe work with her new coach, therapy, and understanding her mental healthWhere she is at now with bodybuilding and her future competing goalsIf you found this podcast helpful or have feedback on this particular topic, please let us know or feel free to reach out to Grace directly. We are also happy to guide people in the right direction for more professional support should they need it; just reach out.Make sure you keep up with us on social media for previews and details about upcoming guest speakers.Instagram: @thebackstagebikinipodcastHosts: @gracemannion_ | @jadeleahegartyAvailable on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Youtube and Amazon Music.

You asked, we delivered! This week we have top amateur IFBB athlete and host of The Pocket Rocket Podcast, Hannah Wares - sharing the good, the bad and the ugly when it comes to prep.It's no secret that prep presents its challenges but we wanted to speak with Hannah in particular to get her views and experience, having competed at a high level for a number of years.In particular we love Hannah's transparency and we wanted listeners, whether first time or experienced competitors, to get a true and raw picture of what you can encounter during and after a prep.We cover:- Different approaches to food post-show, over-eating vs. over-restricting- Managing social occasions, work, the need to be selfish and preserving your energy on prep- Dealing with comments and how to protect your physical and mental space- The impact of extreme dieting externally and internally- What Hannah has learnt over the years and how this current prep is different- Hannah's goals and expectations from this seasonAnd so much more.Don't forget to follow Hannah @hannahwares for updates on her current prep for stage and updates with her podcast. As always, your feedback is hugely appreciated! Please like, share us on your story and follow us across all platforms.If you have any further questions on this topic or anything else you would like to share with us, we would leave to hear from you!Make sure you keep up with us on social media for previews and details about upcoming guest speakers.Instagram: @thebackstagebikinipodcastHosts: @gracemannion_ | @jadeleahegartyAvailable on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Youtube and Amazon Music.

EP 16 is live and this week we have had the pleasure of speaking to a leading UK Prep Coach Josh Mchale. Josh has extensive experience in coaching, and in particular, coaching bikini athletes so this was a highly anticipated chat for both Jade and Grace. We really wanted to understand Josh's methods, how he prepares his athletes not only for stage but for their individual athlete experience.We cover:- Josh's background, how did he come to be a bikini coach, did he always intend to coach female athletes specifically and what does he enjoy most about it?- The bikini division, how it's developed over his time as a coach and how does he keep up- Coaching athlete mindsets from amateur to pro; Josh's thoughts on key characteristics for longevity in the sport- Natural vs PED athletes, approaches to prep, longevity, coaching an athlete at all stages not just during a prep.- Off season management and post show experiences, his protocols and how they are for the most part, client led; why he does this and the impact it has on the athlete- His emerging and newly turned pro athletes, @mickaelafit and @samminshull_ifbbpro - plans and vision for the futureAnd so much more.Don't forget to follow Josh on @coachjmchale and @teamcjm for any coaching enquiries you may have. As always, your feedback is hugely appreciated! Please like, share, subscribe and let us have your thoughts!Make sure you keep up with us on social media for previews and details about upcoming guest speakers.Instagram: @thebackstagebikinipodcastHosts: @gracemannion_ | @jadeleahegartyAvailable on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Youtube and Amazon Music.

EP 15 Arnold Classic Recap and Review is now live on all platforms!One of the most anticipated shows of the season. This show springboards off the back of the Olympia with only a matter of weeks for the athletes to prepare, apply feedback and improve on the back of their Olympia showing, so it's easy to assume that the placings will be very similar. But this is bikini. This week 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.As always, 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 them all.Make sure you keep up with us on social media for previews and details about upcoming guest speakers.Instagram: @thebackstagebikinipodcastHosts: @gracemannion_ | @jadeleahegartyAvailable on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Youtube and Amazon Music.

EP 14 will be dropping anytime now and this week's guest created the very road map for Grace and Jade's very first prep season in this sport. She is the proud owner of @Kompakwomen and @kompakmen , host of @notjustabikinigirl podcast and athlete in her own right, Jasmin Jeffery.Jasmin is responsible for creating a community and hub of information, advice and support in the bikini space and has helped navigate not only her own journey, but hundreds and thousands of other bikini athletes, so we couldn't wait to sit down and talk about her why. We cover:— why bikini? Her own competing background, what introduced her to the space and what motivates her to step on stage, after so many years-KOMPAK, the community, what motivated her to create this space and why did she feel it was so important to do so-growing through the sport, her ups, and downs, her mindset when approaching things that didn't and don't go to plan and how that has shaped her most recent prep-being coached by her partner, how does it differentiate to other preps. Are there pros and cons? -work life and bodybuilding balance, has she achieved it and what steps does she take to protect her space so that she can continue to be an incredible athlete, business woman, wife, family member and friendAnd so much more.Jasmin as a brand is known to so many people but we wanted you to get to know her, because her journey and tenacity is something that will be unrivalled for years. This one gave us so much to ponder on, so much value and we know it will for you too. Don't forget to follow Jasmin on@notjustabikinigirl@kompakmen@kompakwomen@physiquecollective As always, your feedback is hugely appreciated! Please like, share, subscribe and let us have your thoughts! Make sure you keep up with us on social media for previews and details about upcoming guest speakers.Instagram: @thebackstagebikinipodcastHosts: @gracemannion_ | @jadeleahegartyAvailable on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Youtube and Amazon Music.

EP 13 is now live and we had the most incredible chat with Rock It Posing coach and the UK's most promising bikini athlete @marniefitMarnie is an athlete that has shaped both Grace and Jade's journeys in so many ways, with an extensive competitive career for over almost a decade. Marnie has grown with the sport and has demonstrated true persistence and commitment to learning and understanding the sport for what it truly is. We couldn't wait to sit down with her for a chat!We cover:- Marnie's background, her competitive career, and how her experiences have changed over the years;- Self belief and the challenges she has faced overcoming periods of self doubt and personal barriers; how she almost walked away from the sport all together- Wider considerations when it comes to the bikini category and the changes she made to her own presentation in order to keep up with the ever evolving division- The art of posing, what drew her to becoming a posing coach and what now motivates her to empower other athletes on stage- Working with her new coach, current and future plans for this competitive seasonAnd so much more.Marnie is an athlete through and through. Her passion shines through when she talks about not only her own experiences but in her athletes journeys too. She is infectious and real and we know you will love this chat just as much as we did. You can contact Marnie for all your posing needs at @rockitposing and be sure to follow her journey to stage this year on her YouTube!As always, your feedback is hugely appreciated! Please like, share, subscribe and let us have your thoughts.Make sure you keep up with us on social media for previews and details about upcoming guest speakers.Instagram: @thebackstagebikinipodcastHosts: @gracemannion_ | @jadeleahegartyAvailable on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Youtube and Amazon Music.