The Refined Strength Podcast

In today's conversation with Ashlynn Richardson, we explore various themes surrounding rehabilitation, personal growth, neurodiversity, and the intersection of bodybuilding and cannabis. We get to talk about the importance of movement recovery in rehabilitation when overcoming injury, the challenges faced by individuals with ADHD and autism, and how these experiences shape her relationships and personal development. Ashlynn shares insights into her journey in bodybuilding going from Women's Physique to Figure Pro, the impact of her diagnoses, and her aspirations for the future, while also addressing the evolving cannabis industry and its implications for health and wellness. Where to find today’s guest: IG: @ashlynnjaydeifbbpro Follow & engage with me: www.refinedstrengthcoaching.com IG: @rachelsedwickifbb & @refined.strength.coaching Discount Codes: Core Nutritionals Supplements: RACHEL gets you 20% off KHCustoms Posing & Stage Suits: RACHELS Cured Nutrition: RACHELS (15% off) Synergistic Labs: REFINED Jawku Massage Guns: RACHELS DISCLAIMER: The information provided in this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or before making any changes to your health regimen. The hosts and guests of this podcast are not liable for any decisions you make based on the information discussed.

In this episode of the Refined Strength podcast, I sit down with Dallas-based makeup artist and entrepreneur Mackenzie Chesney. We dive into her journey as a business owner, the personal challenges that refined her resilience, and how her passion for fitness complements her work in the beauty industry. Our conversation also explores viewing food as fuel, breaking through limiting beliefs, and the power of surrounding yourself with a supportive community.Where to find today’s guest:IG: @theleopardwearslashesFollow & engage with me:www.refinedstrengthcoaching.comIG: @rachelsedwickifbb & @refined.strength.coachingDiscount Codes:Axe And Sledge Supplements: RACHEL KHCustoms Posing & Stage Suits: RACHELSCured Nutrition: RACHELS (15% off)Synergistic Labs: REFINEDJawku Massage Guns: RACHELS

Let's welcome Justin O'Donnell, an IFBB pro men's open bodybuilder, coach and private equity professional. We talk about Justin's challenges after winning a pro card, his health struggles that evolved into his coaching career taking off and the lessons learned from failures over the years. We touch on the evolving motivations behind bodybuilding, stoicism, the significance of a holistic approach to coaching, and highlighting the creative passions that drive us beyond coaching.Where to find today’s guest:IG @justinyodonnellFollow & engage with me:www.refinedstrengthcoaching.comIG: @rachelsedwickifbb & @refined.strength.coachingDiscount Codes:Axe And Sledge Supplements: RACHEL KHCustoms Posing & Stage Suits: RACHELSCured Nutrition: RACHELS (15% off)Synergistic Labs: REFINEDJawku Massage Guns: RACHELS

Please help me welcome Brittany Diamond to today’s episode of the Refined Strength podcast. Brittany is a pro strongwoman, bodybuilder and Coach, who shares her journey from a challenging childhood to becoming a successful athlete in strength sports. Brittany discusses her early experiences with fitness, her transition from college rowing to Strongman and into competitive bodybuilding. We discuss the impact social media has on business, relationships and the sports we love and talk on the importance of community, breaking barriers for women in sports, and finding balance in life and competition.Where to find today’s guest:IG: @b_dimezFollow & engage with me:www.refinedstrengthcoaching.comIG: @rachelsedwickifbb & @refined.strength.coachingDiscount Codes:Axe And Sledge Supplements: RACHEL KHCustoms Posing & Stage Suits: RACHELSCured Nutrition: RACHELS (15% off)Synergistic Labs: REFINEDJawku Massage Guns: RACHELS

Today's first SQUADcast of the new year! Coach Jess, Coach Daraja and I reflect on our experiences as we have aged, mindset changes, and the significance of honesty in coaching our clients. We talk about the need to focus on the process rather than just the outcomes, we encourage our listeners to embrace their unique journeys and set realistic expectations for themselves.Refined Strength Coaches: @jessica.e.best @darajaweidFollow & engage with me:www.refinedstrengthcoaching.comIG: @rachelsedwickifbb & @refined.strength.coachingDiscount Codes:Axe And Sledge Supplements: RACHEL KHCustoms Posing & Stage Suits: RACHELSCured Nutrition: RACHELS (15% off)Synergistic Labs: REFINEDJawku Massage Guns: RACHELS

In this episode of the Refined Strength Podcast, we welcome back Meghan Morrison and we dive deep into Meg's journey as a bodybuilder through multiple divisions, her struggles with injuries and life set backs, and her debut season in WPD. Meg's insights on the importance of self-acceptance, setting boundaries, and the value of personal growth resonate throughout the conversation, making it a compelling listen for anyone interested in bodybuilding or personal development.Where to find today’s guest:IG: dr.meg_scoobyhealthFollow & engage with me:www.refinedstrengthcoaching.comIG: @rachelsedwickifbb & @refined.strength.coachingDiscount Codes:Axe And Sledge Supplements: RACHEL KHCustoms Posing & Stage Suits: RACHELSCured Nutrition: RACHELS (15% off)Synergistic Labs: REFINEDJawku Massage Guns: RACHELS

In this episode of the Refined Strength podcast, I get to host my longtime friend and accomplished bodybuilder, IFBB Wellness Pro, Nicole Stewart. We discuss Nicole‘s journey in competitive bodybuilding, touching on her experiences in the sport both positive and challenging. Nicole shares her insights on the importance of self acceptance in the need for continuous improvement, her work-bodybuilding balance, and healing her relationship with food, emphasizing that success in bodybuilding is not just about size, but about presenting one’s true best for them, and nobody else.Where to find today’s guest:IG: @nicoletheswoleFollow & engage with me:www.refinedstrengthcoaching.comIG: @rachelsedwickifbb & @refined.strength.coachingDiscount Codes:Axe And Sledge Supplements: RACHEL KHCustoms Posing & Stage Suits: RACHELSCured Nutrition: RACHELS (15% off)Synergistic Labs: REFINEDJawku Massage Guns: RACHELS

In today's Q & A style episode, I share insights from my own journey as a coach and entrepreneur. I share my own current health practices, the importance of mindset, and even the details of a merchandise launch. I also reflect on my transition from a solo coach to leading a team, emphasizing the significance of setting boundaries and maintaining life balance.Follow & engage with me:www.refinedstrengthcoaching.comIG: @rachelsedwickifbb & @refined.strength.coachingDiscount Codes:Axe And Sledge Supplements: RACHEL KHCustoms Posing & Stage Suits: RACHELSCured Nutrition: RACHELS (15% off)Synergistic Labs: REFINEDJawku Massage Guns: RACHELS

In this episode of the Refined Strength podcast we welcome Ashley Lynette Jones, an IFBB Women's Bodybuilding Olympian and owner of Team Refined Fitness. They discuss Ashley's journey in bodybuilding, mental resilience, and the shift in motivation from personal competition to leadership within the sport.Where to find today’s guest:IG: @ivystrong2 Website: teamrefined.coFollow & engage with me:www.refinedstrengthcoaching.comIG: @rachelsedwickifbb & @refined.strength.coachingDiscount Codes:Axe And Sledge Supplements: RACHEL KHCustoms Posing & Stage Suits: RACHELSCured Nutrition: RACHELS (15% off)Synergistic Labs: REFINEDJawku Massage Guns: RACHELS

In this episode I get to reflect with Lindsay Mongillo about her journey to earning her IFBB Figure Pro card. We think back on her experiences with prep, the significance of support systems and the mindset shifts that come with competing in bodybuilding. Together we emphasize the need for athletes to maintain a balanced life and not let bodybuilding consume their identity, while also providing valuable advice for aspiring pro athletes.Where to find today’s guest:IG @linds.is.fierceFollow & engage with me:www.refinedstrengthcoaching.comIG: @rachelsedwickifbb & @refined.strength.coachingDiscount Codes:Axe And Sledge Supplements: RACHEL KHCustoms Posing & Stage Suits: RACHELSCured Nutrition: RACHELS (15% off)Synergistic Labs: REFINEDJawku Massage Guns: RACHELS

Help me welcome IFBB Figure PRO Jasmine Shier to discuss the pressures of competition, and the importance of mental health and individuality in the sport and her decision to delay her pro debut. Together we explore the impact of social media on athletes, the evolution of bodybuilding standards, and the significance of finding balance in life outside of bodybuilding. Where to find today’s guest:IG @jasmine_shier @rpstrengthwww.rpstrength.comFollow & engage with me:www.refinedstrengthcoaching.comIG: @rachelsedwickifbb & @refined.strength.coachingDiscount Codes:Axe And Sledge Supplements: RACHEL KHCustoms Posing & Stage Suits: RACHELSCured Nutrition: RACHELS (15% off)Synergistic Labs: REFINEDJawku Massage Guns: RACHELS

Fresh off the last national show/pro qualifier of the year, the whole team talks about how to navigate life after NOT getting your pro card. We talk about the mindset shifts necessary to continue competing but also continue living a full life, not tying your identity to the stage or getting a pro card. Follow & engage with us:www.refinedstrengthcoaching.comIG: @rachelsedwickifbb @darajaweid @jessica.e.best@refined.strength.coachingDiscount & Support Codes:Axe And Sledge Supplements: RACHELKH Customs Posing & Stage Suits: RACHELSCured Nutrition: RACHELSAuthentic Aminos: REFINED

In today's episode, Refined Strength coaches Jess and Daraja discuss the common challenges faced in fitness journeys, particularly around motivation and the psychological aspects of change. The conversation touches on the significance of building sustainable habits, the necessity of structure, and the common reasons why many fitness journeys fail. Where to find today’s guest:IG @jessica.e.best @darajaweidFollow & engage with me: www.refinedstrengthcoaching.comIG: @rachelsedwickifbb & @refined.strength.coachingDiscount Codes:Axe And Sledge Supplements: RACHEL KHCustoms Posing & Stage Suits: RACHELSCured Nutrition: RACHELS (15% off)Synergistic Labs: REFINEDJawku Massage Guns: RACHELS

In this conversation, Rachel Sedwick discusses the common misconception that motivation alone is sufficient for achieving fitness goals. She emphasizes the importance of establishing effective systems and reviews her own habits that help to maintain progress, especially when motivation wanes.Follow & engage with me:www.refinedstrengthcoaching.comIG: @rachelsedwickifbb & @refined.strength.coachingDiscount Codes:Axe And Sledge Supplements: RACHEL KHCustoms Posing & Stage Suits: RACHELSCured Nutrition: RACHELS (15% off)Synergistic Labs: REFINEDJawku Massage Guns: RACHELS

In today's episode I talk about the importance of challenging yourself and how it relates to how our brain works. Engaging in difficult tasks not only helps in creating new neural pathways but also strengthens existing ones. This process is vital for personal growth and mental resilience, as well as long term success in bodybuilding and any other pursuit that requires pushing your limits. Follow & engage with me:www.refinedstrengthcoaching.comIG: @rachelsedwickifbb & @refined.strength.coachingDiscount Codes:Axe And Sledge Supplements: RACHEL KHCustoms Posing & Stage Suits: RACHELSCured Nutrition: RACHELS (15% off)Synergistic Labs: REFINEDJawku Massage Guns: RACHELS

In this conversation I have the pleasure of chatting with Jamie Granville, coach and J3U Educator with J3U Coaching.  We discuss the intricacies of coaching female bodybuilders in a male-dominated industry. We explore the importance of evidence-based coaching, the unique hormonal challenges faced by female athletes, and the need for a long-term health perspective in bodybuilding. Where to find today’s guest:IG: @jamienoswitchBOOK A CALL- https://calendly.com/j3u-sales/j3u-coaching-consult?utm_source=jamieg&month=2025-10Follow & engage with me:www.refinedstrengthcoaching.comIG: @rachelsedwickifbb & @refined.strength.coachingDiscount Codes:Axe And Sledge Supplements: RACHEL KHCustoms Posing & Stage Suits: RACHELSCured Nutrition: RACHELS (15% off)Synergistic Labs: REFINEDJawku Massage Guns: RACHELS

In this episode of the Refined Strength podcast, hosts Rachel Sedwick, Daraja Weidemeyer, and Jess Best celebrate two years of Refined Strength while sharing personal updates and challenges. They discuss the pressures of expectations in bodybuilding, the impact of social media and comparison, and the importance of mental health during competition prep. Where to find today’s guest:IG: @jessica.e.best @darajaweidWebsite:Follow & engage with me:www.refinedstrengthcoaching.comIG: @rachelsedwickifbb & @refined.strength.coachingDiscount Codes:Axe & Sledge Supplements: RACHELKHCustoms Posing & Stage Suits: RACHELSCured Nutrition: RACHELS (15% off)Synergistic Labs: REFINEDJawku Massage Guns: RACHELS

In this episode of the Refined Strength podcast, we sit down with IFBB Pro Austin Karr about the evolution of the Steve Carr Classic bodybuilding show, the importance of women's bodybuilding, and the challenges faced by competitors. Austin shares his journey in the sport, including health challenges and the significance of supporting athletes through promoting shows. Where to find today’s guest:IG: @ifbbproaustin @npc_stevekarrlasvegasclassicNPC Steve Karr Las Vegas ClassicNovember 8, 2025Alexis Park 375 E Harmon Ave Las Vegas, NV 89169Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2025-ifbbnpc-steve-karr-classic-and-npc-natural-city-of-lights-weekend-tickets-1766458588189?aff=oddtdtcreatorFollow & engage with me:www.refinedstrengthcoaching.comIG: @rachelsedwickifbb & @refined.strength.coachingDiscount Codes:Axe And Sledge Supplements: RACHEL KHCustoms Posing & Stage Suits: RACHELSCured Nutrition: RACHELS (15% off)Synergistic Labs: REFINEDJawku Massage Guns: RACHELS

We're back! This is season 2 with coaches Rachel Sedwick, Jessica Best and Daraja Weidemoyer. Together we discuss the critical issue of burnout among athletes and coaches, exploring its signs, causes, and the importance of rest and recovery. We emphasize the need for mindfulness and stress management techniques to maintain mental health and performance. Where to find today’s guest:IG: @jessica.e.best @darajaweidWebsite:Follow & engage with me:www.refinedstrengthcoaching.comIG: @rachelsedwickifbb & @refined.strength.coachingDiscount Codes:Axe And Sledge Supplements: RACHEL KHCustoms Posing & Stage Suits: RACHELSCured Nutrition: RACHELS (15% off)Synergistic Labs: REFINEDJawku Massage Guns: RACHELS

In this special Q&A episode of the Refined Strength Podcast, we dive into the questions that matter most to our listeners. From my transition from corporate America to becoming a full-time coach, to the mindset shifts that have shaped my journey as a competitor, this episode is packed with insights and personal stories. Whether you're an aspiring coach or an athlete, there's something here for everyone. Join me as I share the lessons learned and the pivotal moments that have defined my path. Tune in for a profound exploration of growth, resilience, and the power of community. Follow & engage with me:www.refinedstrengthcoaching.comIG: @rachelsedwickifbb & @refined.strength.coachingDiscount Codes:Axe And Sledge Supplements: RACHEL KHCustoms Posing & Stage Suits: RACHELSCured Nutrition: RACHELS (15% off)Synergistic Labs: REFINEDJawku Massage Guns: RACHELS