Send us a text Lisa Schurr has competed in 10 NPC bikini competitions since 2022—and she's just getting started. In this episode, she shares her biggest lessons, including: Why reverse dieting is non-negotiableCompeting only against yourselfThe truth about realistic expectations for placingWhy posing is everything If you're a first-time competitor or thinking about stepping on stage, this is the episode for you!🎧 Cupcakes and Protein Shakes: Where Real Bikini Athletes Get Real Follow Lisa: @...
Send us a text In this episode, I sit down with Amber, a bikini competitor who shares her raw and real journey through five competitions. After earning 5thplace in her debut show, she faced the harsh reality of binge eating, grief, and a reverse diet gone wrong. Amber opens up about canceling a prep she wasn’t ready for, why slowing down was the best decision, and how she found clarity by refusing to quit—even when it meant stepping back. This one’s for every athlete who’s ever felt lost afte...
Send us a text In this episode of Cupcakes and Protein Shakes, I chat with Kelsey Raley, a competitor who shares her transformation story from stepping on stage with the NPC to switching federations and competing with the OCB. She dives into what she learned, what she wished she knew, and gives real advice for first-time competitors. 👉 Why doing your research matters 👉 How to know which federation is right for you 👉 The truth about relying on others vs. yourself Follow her: @...
Send us a text In this powerful episode, Samantha Scales opens up about her rocky start in 2017—cheating on her reverse diet, not taking prep seriously, and ultimately quitting halfway through because she couldn’t afford to continue. Now, years later, she's preparing for Nationals, sharing the hard lessons she learned, and running her own “Stage Mom” business—helping first-time competitors backstage. This is your warning: competing is expensive, your coach matters, and skipping steps will cos...
Send us a text In this episode, Mandy Wescott shares how she went from supporting her husband’s prep to stepping on stage herself placing Top 5 at the NPC Ben Weider show in her first season. With a background in sports and ice skating, she mastered posing and leaned into discipline over comfort. Learn how trusting the process and showing up even when she didn’t feel ready led to success on stage. Follow @ mmwescott Welcome to Cupcakes & Protein Shakes, the podcast that gives you the too...
Send us a text In this episode, we sit down with a truly inspiring athlete — a 40-year-old mom of four who chased her dream of stepping on stage after overcoming divorce, spine surgery, and major life changes. After an unsuccessful prep in 2019, she rebuilt herself mentally and physically, competing successfully in two bikini shows in 2024. She shares hard-earned lessons like why it's important to start sooner than you think, double-check show day bookings (especially makeup!), and why ...
Send us a text In this episode, I sit down with a therapist who specializes in eating disorders. We talk about her personal struggles with body image and ED from her background in dance, and how that shaped her passion for helping others. We dive into why having a plan—before and after your show—is critical, the role of a support system, and what to do when the stage lights go out. Welcome to Cupcakes & Protein Shakes, the podcast that gives you the tools and inspiration you need t...
Send us a text 💥 Episode Summary: Before you pick a coach or step on stage, ask yourself: Do you truly love yourself? In this episode, we sit down with a seasoned athlete who's competed in bikini and wellness — now prepping for her fourth show. We break down the 3 must-haves for a successful competition journey: ✔️ How to choose the right coach (and red flags to avoid) ✔️ Why your support system can make or break you ✔️ The real power of self-love and mindset work before prep Whether you'...
Send us a text Key Points to Cover: ✅ How Hormones Impact Your Prep – Understanding cortisol, estrogen, testosterone, and thyroid health. ✅ Common Hormonal Imbalances – How to spot red flags like fatigue, water retention, or stalled fat loss. ✅ Smart Training & Nutrition – Optimizing workouts and diet to support hormone balance. ✅ Supplements & Bloodwork – What tests to get and how to use supplements wisely. ✅ Post-Show Recovery – How to rebalance hormones after a competition. F...
Send us a text 🎙 How to Start Bodybuilding & Step on Stage: Beginner’s Guide 🏆💪 Thinking about competing in bodybuilding but don’t know where to start? In this episode, we break down everything you need to know to go from beginner to stage-ready. Whether you’re new to lifting or dreaming of stepping on stage, this guide covers the essential steps to get started. 🔑 What You’ll Learn: ✅ How to start bodybuilding as a beginner ✅ Training & nutrition tips for first-time competitors ✅ The ...
Send us a text Guest's Fitness Journey Inspired by Ashley Kaltwasser's videos after two years in the gym.Started as a beginner with no athletic background, gained 15 lbs after marriage.Discovered bikini competitions while stationed in Japan with the military, with no social media influence at the time.First Competition Experience Began competing in Germany; lacked stage readiness and had an unfit coach.Struggled with posing and mindset—initially indifferent about placing but later became emot...
Send us a text Episode Summary: In this episode, we dive into the inspiring journey of 22-year-old Felicia, a Texas State University student with a background in musical theater who discovered her passion for fitness and bodybuilding. Felicia shares how a friend's mom and a simple scroll through Instagram introduced her to the NPC Bikini division. With guidance from coach Lexie Maitland and the support of Team Pro Physique, she embraced her first prep—a transformative 16-week journey filled w...
Send us a text In this episode, we chat with Jennifer Garland, who came just one spot away from earning her pro card. Jennifer shares her insights on the importance of maintaining your health to stay agile and active, whether it’s for safety or to keep up with your grandkids. We also discuss the benefits of eating whole foods, reducing cravings, and how Jennifer transformed her training approach—learning to push herself harder and smarter. Follow Jenn @jennnifergarland Welcome to Cupc...
Send us a text In this episode, Savana recaps where she’s been the last few months and how her show went in August. We get updated on her reverse diet thoughts, mindset, and feelings. She also dives into the topic about not using prep as an excuse to be a bad person. She touches on her plans for her upcoming season and we find out that she is eight weeks away from her next Pro bikini competition. Tune in to season five of Cupcakes & Protein Shakes for more updates along the road to Savana...
Send us a text Get ready to be inspired! Join us as we sit down with bikini athlete and coach Carissa Ferguson for an exclusive peek into her incredible fitness journey. Discover how she went from feeling "not fit enough" as a personal trainer to dominating the bikini stage in eight competitions. But that's not all – Carissa spills the tea on her upcoming venture into a new federation WBFF, promising more fashion, more flair, and more jaw-dropping transformations. If you're craving a dose of ...
Send us a text Join us for an illuminating conversation with Kellie Keehr as she unveils her remarkable journey of balancing a demanding corporate career with her passion for competition. From navigating the pressures of the boardroom to dominating the stage, Kellie shares her insights, challenges, and triumphs. Now, as she embarks on a well-deserved off-season, Kellie reveals her ambitious goal: to earn her pro card in 2025. Tune in as she discusses the sacrifices, strategies, and sheer dete...
Send us a text In this compelling episode, we have the privilege of delving into the extraordinary story of Gloryanne Carswell, a dynamic athlete whose journey embodies resilience, determination, and redemption. At the tender age of 20, Gloryanne embarked on a competitive athletic career with unwavering passion and ambition. However, life threw her a curveball when she encountered a series of personal setbacks, including a devastating breakup, which led her to lose both herself and her connec...
Send us a text In this insightful episode, we have the privilege of chatting with Erica Magsam, a remarkable individual who is breaking barriers in the world of bodybuilding and mental health advocacy. As a clinical psychologist and dedicated athlete, Erica brings a unique perspective to the conversation, shedding light on the often-overlooked struggles that athletes face, especially during the off-season. Join us as Erica shares her personal journey, discussing the challenges of maintaining ...
Send us a text Join hosts Savana and Yocheved as they delve into the captivating world of modeling through the eyes of Yo. In this episode, Yo shares their exhilarating experience at modeling camp, offering insights, challenges, and memorable moments from their time on the runway. From navigating auditions to mastering catwalk techniques, Yo takes us on a journey of self-discovery and growth in the competitive world of fashion. Tune in to gain a firsthand glimpse into the glamour, grit, and g...
Send us a text Discover the awe-inspiring story of Julie Taylor, a 45-year-old single mom of four and business owner who defies expectations as a master bikini athlete. Standing tall at 5'10", she shares her secrets to balancing motherhood, entrepreneurship, and competitive fitness, including her unique approach of sleeping in a waist trainer. Join us as she proves that it's never too late to chase your dreams and redefine what's possible! Follow her online: @julie_taylor_fit Welcome to Cup...