Episode 388: The Hardest Part of Contest Prep

In this episode, our hosts dive into some of the hardest challenges in contest prep. From the physical struggles to the MENTAL hardships, Paul, Evan and Lexie breakdown some of their own personal prep struggles, along with diving into some common struggles that they see amongst their own clients.  Thank you to our Podcast Sponsor, ACBikinis, for sponsoring today's podcast episode. Grab a FREE gift, exclusive to our podcast listeners, here: www.acbikinis.com/code & apply code "LEXIEM" for a % off your next suit order.  

Today, our hosts, Danika and Fatima, chat about unsettling feelings that come sometimes without warning. They share their own experiences and what tools can be applied during moments where we feel emotions begin to dictate our every action. They also breakdown what anxiety actually is, how to recognize early signs your body and mind give you and WHY these feelings are not something to avoid or fear.

In this episode, we're answering your questions in a fun listener Q&A! A lot of them revolve around the upcoming Fit Model Pro shows, where we see the division heading, how it could impact Bikini, and our thoughts on former Bikini pros transitioning to Fit Model. It's a packed episode you won't want to miss!

In this episode, Coach Danika and Coach Fatima discuss Fatima's career transition from corporate work to becoming an online coach, including self-doubt and challenges she was able to overcome along the way and her WHY behind the big change. Fatima shares her personal experience with perimenopause and how she was able to advocate for herself to create harmony in her hormones now. They also dive into the power of choice and how radical acceptance in personal growth can bring such great strength and positive change. 

In this episode, Paul, Evan, and Lexie sit down to break down some of the most common PREP myths people assume about the sport of bodybuilding. Are these beliefs actually valid... or completely bogus? The hosts tackle each myth head-on, sharing their personal insights and unfiltered opinions along the way. Today's Podcast is sponsored by ACBikinis! Click the link below to receive a FREE gift from our sponsor: acbikinis.com/code 

In this episode, Danika sits down with ProPhysique coaches Matt and Fatima — a powerhouse duo based in South Africa. They share how having a supportive partner can elevate your fitness journey, while also opening up about their own personal transformations. The conversation highlights the delicate balance between accountability and empathy when coaching clients, and why both are essential for long-term success.

Join our prep hosts as they break down sh*it they don't tell you about CARDIO! Dispelling some common misconceptions when it comes to cardio, they touch on HIIT vs LISS cardio, cardio specifically for fat loss, different cardio modalities and MORE. 

Kara Corey joins Danika for an honest conversation about evolving through life's biggest transitions, taking risks and chances that shift the trajectory of your life and staying grounded and authentic in the public eye. They talk fitness at 40, redefining success, career changes and what it really takes to build a life you feel proud of- inside and out. This episode is full of perspective, inspiration, and real talk for anyone entering a new chapter or itching to make a change.

In this episode, our hosts break down common perceived "setbacks" that often stop people from pursuing the stage. A major focus is on age and dieting history, and why these factors don't have to be dealbreakers. They discuss how to set yourself up for success without running yourself into the ground through extreme or repeated dieting phases, and how to take a proactive approach for long-term progress and sustainability in the sport.

Paul, Danika, and Ron dive into Ron's journey as a retired police detective and new coach, and how the gym has remained a consistent anchor for him over the years. The conversation expands into how training goes beyond the physical, often becoming a key outlet for mental clarity and stability when life feels overwhelming.