Atlas Podcast

In this episode of The Atlas Podcast, I’m joined by Team Atlas Lifestyle & Posing coach Victoria Schmidt for a wide ranging conversation on her upcoming Fit Model debut at the Toronto Pro, what makes this new division so exciting, and the details that will separate the best from the rest on stage. We break down why stage presence, confidence, and truly owning your space may matter more in Fit Model than in any other division, along with why this category is bringing many athletes back to competing.
We also dive into practical coaching topics like getting stage lean early, keeping peak week simple, protein intake for women, food variety and digestion, posing mistakes that cost placings, and what really separates a first try pro from someone who needs multiple attempts. From there, we get into coaching dynamics, athletes switching teams, being coached by a partner, and of course some chaotic side tangents and laughs along the way. This episode is packed with valuable insight for competitors, coaches, and anyone who wants a deeper look into what it takes to succeed in bodybuilding. Hope you enjoy it!
The Atlas Podcast is available on:

YouTube: bit.ly/AtlasPodcastYoutube
Spotify: bit.ly/AtlasPodcastSpotify
Apple Podcast: bit.ly/AtlasPodcastApple

Stay Connected:

Team Atlas Website: www.teamatlasfitness.com
James Ayotte's Website: www.jamesayotte.com
Team Atlas on Instagram: @teamatlasmtl &
@teamatlaslifestyle
James on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/james.ayotte.79
James on Instagram: @jamesxatlas
Atlas Podcast on Instagram: @atlaspodcastx
Discount links: https://linktr.ee/Jamesayotte

Atlas Podcast #30 | IFBB Pro Sabra Young & James Ayotte
In this episode of The Atlas Podcast, I’m joined once again by IFBB Bikini Pro and Team Atlas coach Sabra Young for a wide ranging conversation covering everything from the 2026 Arnold Classic Bikini results to the mindset athletes need to handle both winning and losing at the highest level.
We break down the Arnold placings in detail and dive into the judging logic behind the placings. From there, we get into how athletes tie their self worth to placings, why that mindset can destroy long term progress, and how to stay focused on improvement instead of expectations. We also talk about training hard versus training smart, common mistakes bikini athletes make when trying to grow glutes, why poor exercise execution can ruin a physique, and the difference between bodybuilding style programming and true bikini specific training.
Hope you enjoy it!
The Atlas Podcast is available on:

YouTube: bit.ly/AtlasPodcastYoutube
Spotify: bit.ly/AtlasPodcastSpotify
Apple Podcast: bit.ly/AtlasPodcastApple

Stay Connected:

Team Atlas Website: www.teamatlasfitness.com
James Ayotte's Website: www.jamesayotte.com
Team Atlas on Instagram: @teamatlasmtl &
@teamatlaslifestyle
James on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/james.ayotte.79
James on Instagram: @jamesxatlas
Atlas Podcast on Instagram: @atlaspodcastx
Discount links: https://linktr.ee/Jamesayotte

In this episode of The Atlas Podcast, I’m joined by IFBB Bikini Pro and Team Atlas coach Sabra Young for a conversation covering Olympia experiences, judging momentum, and the realities of contest prep at the highest level.
We break down topics like dietary fats in prep, evolving bikini standards, glute density trends, and the future of the Fit Model division, along with the mindset and lifestyle required for long term success in bodybuilding.
We also dive into hormones, PED misconceptions, and practical coaching insights that shape athlete progress over time.
To close, I share the full reasoning behind my upcoming move from Canada to Texas, including the financial math of buying vs renting, tax differences, and how major life decisions outside the gym impact long term success.
If you’re a competitor, coach, or serious about leveling up in bodybuilding and life, this episode is packed with insight.
Hope you enjoy it.
The Atlas Podcast is available on:

YouTube: bit.ly/AtlasPodcastYoutube
Spotify: bit.ly/AtlasPodcastSpotify
Apple Podcast: bit.ly/AtlasPodcastApple

Stay Connected:

Team Atlas Website: www.teamatlasfitness.com
James Ayotte's Website: www.jamesayotte.com
Team Atlas on Instagram: @teamatlasmtl &
@teamatlaslifestyle
James on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/james.ayotte.79
James on Instagram: @jamesxatlas
Atlas Podcast on Instagram: @atlaspodcastx
Discount links: https://linktr.ee/Jamesayotte

In this episode of The Atlas Podcast, I’m joined once again by IFBB Bikini Pro and Team Atlas coach Sabra for a wide ranging conversation covering everything from the new Olympia points system to the evolution of the Fit Model division.

We dive deep into why the revamped qualification process will raise the standard of competition, the challenges of peaking athletes at massive shows like the Olympia, and how the prestige of earning that stage spot is being restored.

Sabra and I also discuss the fine line of conditioning in bikini, the importance of staying within striking distance of stage weight in the offseason, and how prep timelines should be customized rather than forced into a cookie-cutter 12-week plan.

From peptides and performance tools to the realities of moving from lifestyle coaching into elite competitor coaching, we share insights on both the athletic and business sides of bodybuilding. We also reflect on the rise of the Fit Model category, why it’s already thriving, and how Team Atlas has quickly established itself as the leader in producing the most Fit Model pros in the world

Of course, it wouldn’t be a podcast with Sabra without some laughs, expect plenty of side tangents, including crystals, chaos, and the behind the scenes madness of competition season.

This episode is packed with both practical advice and candid stories that give you an inside look at what it really takes to compete, coach, and stay at the top level of the sport. Hope you enjoy it!

The Atlas Podcast is available on:
 
YouTube: bit.ly/AtlasPodcastYoutube
Spotify: bit.ly/AtlasPodcastSpotify
Apple Podcast: bit.ly/AtlasPodcastApple
 
Stay Connected:
 
Team Atlas Website: www.teamatlasfitness.com
James Ayotte's Website: www.jamesayotte.com 
Team Atlas on Instagram: @teamatlasmtl &
@teamatlaslifestyle
James on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/james.ayotte.79
James on Instagram: @jamesxatlas
Atlas Podcast on Instagram: @atlaspodcastx
Discount links: https://linktr.ee/Jamesayotte

In this episode of The Atlas Podcast, I’m joined by IFBB Bikini Pro and Team Atlas coach Sabra Young for a brutally honest—and funny—conversation on everything from glute development and judging trends to the harsh realities of contest prep.
We start with a recap of the 2025 New York Pro, breaking down why glute density is becoming the dominant factor at the top level—and what that means for shorter versus taller athletes going into the Olympia. Sabra and I also talk about coaching dynamics, athlete psychology, and the challenge of managing body image and self-doubt during prep.
We dive deep into the case of Ariana Brothers. We also share insights from Ivi’s rapid rise in the ranks, and how access to top-tier judging feedback is giving her a massive competitive edge over other European athletes.
Other topics include: the difference between suffering and smart prep, how cultural differences impact coaching, and why every peak and plan must be tailored to the athlete—not cookie-cutter.
If you're a competitor, coach, or just someone looking to better understand the complexity behind stage conditioning and high-level decision making, this episode is packed with insight. We hope you enjoy it!
The Atlas Podcast is available on:

YouTube: bit.ly/AtlasPodcastYoutube
Spotify: bit.ly/AtlasPodcastSpotify
Apple Podcast: bit.ly/AtlasPodcastApple

In this episode of The Atlas Podcast, I sit down with licensed therapist, counselor, and Team Atlas posing coach, Lina Gharapetian, for an in-depth discussion on the mental and emotional challenges athletes face in bodybuilding.
We dive into the psychological side of competition, breaking down how to build emotional resilience, manage anxiety during prep, and shift from a perfectionist mindset to one that prioritizes progress and long-term success. Lina shares her expertise on how competitors can develop a strong, balanced mentality and avoid common mental pitfalls that derail their journey.
We also cover the importance of posing, what separates great posers from average ones, and how small details—like confidence, fluidity, and breathing—can make or break a competitor’s stage presence. Lina explains why posing should be treated as a skill developed year-round, not just something practiced before a show.
Beyond competing, we tackle body image struggles, disordered eating patterns, and the emotional highs and lows that come with extreme dieting and physique changes. Lina offers practical strategies to develop a healthy relationship with food and training, emphasizing why a sustainable mindset is key to longevity in the sport.
If you’re an athlete struggling with self-doubt, stress, or mindset hurdles, this episode is packed with insights to help you navigate the mental game of bodybuilding and elevate your performance.
Hope you enjoy it!
The Atlas Podcast is available on:

YouTube: bit.ly/AtlasPodcastYoutube
Spotify: bit.ly/AtlasPodcastSpotify
Apple Podcast: bit.ly/AtlasPodcastApple

Stay Connected:

Team Atlas Website: www.teamatlasfitness.com
James Ayotte's Website: www.jamesayotte.com
Team Atlas on Instagram: @teamatlasmtl &
@teamatlaslifestyle
James on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/james.ayotte.79
James on Instagram: @jamesxatlas
Atlas Podcast on Instagram: @atlaspodcastx
Discount links: https://linktr.ee/Jamesayotte

In this episode of The Atlas Podcast, I sit down with IFBB Bikini Pro Sabra and talk about the realities of coaching, building a business, and balancing life as a mom. We cover the challenges of starting from the ground up, staying accountable post-show, and why reverse dieting is crucial for both performance and health. Sabra shares the importance of connecting with clients, building trust, and handling setbacks without letting imposter syndrome take over. Plus, we chat about some of the wild side quests that come with running a business and navigating life as competitors and coaches. Expect laughs, lessons learned, and a lot of chaos along the way!
The Atlas Podcast is available on:

YouTube: bit.ly/AtlasPodcastYoutube
Spotify: bit.ly/AtlasPodcastSpotify
Apple Podcast: bit.ly/AtlasPodcastApple
Google Podcast: bit.ly/AtlasPodcastGoogle

Stay Connected:

Team Atlas Website: www.teamatlasfitness.com
James Ayotte's Website: www.jamesayotte.com
Team Atlas on Instagram: @teamatlasmtl &
@teamatlaslifestyle
James on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/james.ayotte.79
James on Instagram: @jamesxatlas
Atlas Podcast on Instagram: @atlaspodcastx
Discount links: https://linktr.ee/Jamesayotte

In this episode of The Atlas Podcast, I sit down with my long-time friend and renowned coach, Chris Gurunlian, to discuss the exciting new Fit Model division recently announced by Tyler Manion. We dive deep into the evolution of bodybuilding categories, exploring how this new division aims to provide a more attainable and entry-level option for aspiring competitors while growing the sport as a whole.
Chris shares his personal journey, from skepticism to full support, reflecting on how new divisions like Men’s Physique and Wellness initially faced criticism but ultimately flourished. Together, we analyze the potential impact of the Fit Model category on the industry, from offering athletes a more mainstream look to its potential for attracting new talent and even drawing back retired competitors.
We tackle some of the most pressing questions: Will this division hurt bikini? Does it lower the bar for competition? And how will it shape the future of bodybuilding? Chris and I also share strategies for athletes deciding whether to transition into this category and discuss the business opportunities it brings for coaches, posing specialists, and other industry professionals.
If you’ve been curious about the Fit Model division or the ever-evolving landscape of bodybuilding, this episode is packed with insights, debates, and actionable advice for athletes at all levels. Don’t miss this in-depth conversation about the sport's future and how you can adapt to thrive. Enjoy!
Stay Connected:

Team Atlas Website: www.teamatlasfitness.com
James Ayotte's Website: www.jamesayotte.com
Team Atlas on Instagram: @teamatlasmtl &
@teamatlaslifestyle
James on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/james.ayotte.79
James on Instagram: @jamesxatlas
Atlas Podcast on Instagram: @atlaspodcastx
Discount links: https://linktr.ee/Jamesayotte

In this episode of The Atlas Podcast, I sit down with Bikini Olympia Champion Ariana Brothers to reflect on her post-Olympia thoughts and discuss what’s next in her competitive career. We dive into your questions, exploring topics like whether you should tell your coach if you’ve deviated from your plan, how to determine if you’re truly ready to compete, and when postponing a show might be the better option. Ariana and I highlight the importance of honesty in the coach-athlete relationship, explaining how withholding details—like untracked refeeds—can disrupt your prep and compromise your results.
We also address the challenges athletes face as they progress in the sport, sharing how we build trust with new clients and set clear expectations. Ariana offers a glimpse into her new posing business, emphasizing its value for competitors looking to refine their stage presence and stand out. This episode is packed with actionable insights on prep, peaking, and posing, providing an in-depth look at what it takes to thrive at the highest level. Don’t miss this honest and informative conversation with one of the sport’s elite athletes!
The Atlas Podcast is available on:

YouTube: bit.ly/AtlasPodcastYoutube
Spotify: bit.ly/AtlasPodcastSpotify
Apple Podcast: bit.ly/AtlasPodcastApple
Google Podcast: bit.ly/AtlasPodcastGoogle

Stay Connected:

Team Atlas Website: www.teamatlasfitness.com
James Ayotte's Website: www.jamesayotte.com
Team Atlas on Instagram: @teamatlasmtl &
@teamatlaslifestyle
James on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/james.ayotte...
James on Instagram: @jamesxatlas
Atlas Podcast on Instagram: @atlaspodcastx
Discount links: https://linktr.ee/Jamesayotte

In this episode of The Atlas Podcast, I’m joined by Bikini Olympia Champion Isa Pecini for an in-depth look at her final preparations leading into the 2024 Olympia. As we gear up for the big event, we share our insights on maintaining peak conditioning while managing stress, the challenges of peaking at the perfect time, and how she’s balancing her training and diet just two weeks out from the stage. We discuss the 'less is more' approach to peaking an athlete and the strategies we’ve implemented to ensure Isa’s physique is dialed in for the biggest competition of the year. For anyone interested in the behind-the-scenes process of preparing a champion for the Olympia, this episode is a must-watch. We hope you enjoy it!

The Atlas Podcast is available on:

YouTube: bit.ly/AtlasPodcastYoutube
Spotify: bit.ly/AtlasPodcastSpotify
Apple Podcast: bit.ly/AtlasPodcastApple
Google Podcast: bit.ly/AtlasPodcastGoogle

Stay Connected:

Team Atlas Website: www.teamatlasfitness.com
James Ayotte's Website: www.jamesayotte.com
Team Atlas on Instagram: @teamatlasmtl &
@teamatlaslifestyle
James on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/james.ayotte...
James on Instagram: @jamesxatlas
Atlas Podcast on Instagram: @atlaspodcastx
Victoria's on Instagram: @posingvs & @schmidtvictoria_
Discount links: https://linktr.ee/Jamesayotte