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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 cost you. Samantha’s story is proof that you can fall hard and still come back stronger.

Follow: @samanthaaajo_fit

Welcome to Cupcakes & Protein Shakes, the podcast that gives you the tools and inspiration you need to achieve your fitness and wellness goals. Follow your host Savana Sharp on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok for even more great content and insider tips. Join the community on Facebook!

We've got some fantastic discount codes and links to share with you today! Use code "SAVANAS" for 10% off your purchase of Angel Competition Bikinis, and sign up for a free consultation with Savana to design your dream competition suit.

If you need help with bikini posing, book a session with Savana at https://calendly.com/savanasharpposing

If you would like to work 1:1 for bikini prep or lifestyle coaching with Savana please apply for coaching here: https://savanasharp.com/lifestyle-coaching-application/

Looking for some sweet Cupcakes & Protein Shakes merch? Check out our store at https://www.bonfire.com/store/s...

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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 tools and inspiration you need to achieve your fitness and wellness goals. Follow your host Savana Sharp on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok for even more great content and insider tips. Join the community on Facebook!

We've got some fantastic discount codes and links to share with you today! Use code "SAVANAS" for 10% off your purchase of Angel Competition Bikinis, and sign up for a free consultation with Savana to design your dream competition suit.

If you need help with bikini posing, book a session with Savana at https://calendly.com/savanasharpposing

If you would like to work 1:1 for bikini prep or lifestyle coaching with Savana please apply for coaching here: https://savanasharp.com/lifestyle-coaching-application/

Looking for some sweet Cupcakes & Protein Shakes merch? Check out our store at https://www.bonfire.com/store/s...

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 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 if you want it badly enough, you can make it happen. A must-listen for anyone thinking about competing for the first time! 

Follow Christina @c8_fitness_lhc

Welcome to Cupcakes & Protein Shakes, the podcast that gives you the tools and inspiration you need to achieve your fitness and wellness goals. Follow your host Savana Sharp on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok for even more great content and insider tips. Join the community on Facebook!

We've got some fantastic discount codes and links to share with you today! Use code "SAVANAS" for 10% off your purchase of Angel Competition Bikinis, and sign up for a free consultation with Savana to design your dream competition suit.

If you need help with bikini posing, book a session with Savana at https://calendly.com/savanasharpposing

If you would like to work 1:1 for bikini prep or lifestyle coaching with Savana please apply for coaching here: https://savanasharp.com/lifestyle-coaching-application/

Looking for some sweet Cupcakes & Protein Shakes merch? Check out our store at https://www.bonfire.com/store/s...

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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-negotiable
• Competing only against yourself
• The truth about realistic expectations for placing
• Why 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: @lmschuur

Welcome to Cupcakes & Protein Shakes, the podcast that gives you the tools and inspiration you need to achieve your fitness and wellness goals. Follow your host Savana Sharp on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok for even more great content and insider tips. Join the community on Facebook!

We've got some fantastic discount codes and links to share with you today! Use code "SAVANAS" for 10% off your purchase of Angel Competition Bikinis, and sign up for a free consultation with Savana to design your dream competition suit.

If you need help with bikini posing, book a session with Savana at https://calendly.com/savanasharpposing

If you would like to work 1:1 for bikini prep or lifestyle coaching with Savana please apply for coaching here: https://savanasharp.com/lifestyle-coaching-application/

Looking for some sweet Cupcakes & Protein Shakes merch? Check out our store at https://www.bonfire.com/store/s...

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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 to achieve your fitness and wellness goals. Follow your host Savana Sharp on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok for even more great content and insider tips. Join the community on Facebook!

We've got some fantastic discount codes and links to share with you today! Use code "SAVANAS" for 10% off your purchase of Angel Competition Bikinis, and sign up for a free consultation with Savana to design your dream competition suit.

If you need help with bikini posing, book a session with Savana at https://calendly.com/savanasharpposing

If you would like to work 1:1 for bikini prep or lifestyle coaching with Savana please apply for coaching here: https://savanasharp.com/lifestyle-coaching-application/

Looking for some sweet Cupcakes & Protein Shakes merch? Check out our store at https://www.bonfire.com/store/s...

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💥 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're a first-time competitor or deep into your journey, this episode is your reminder to protect your peace, align with your values, and love yourself through it all. 💖

Follow: IG @https://www.instagram.com/fitnessbyjo_lbk/

Welcome to Cupcakes & Protein Shakes, the podcast that gives you the tools and inspiration you need to achieve your fitness and wellness goals. Follow your host Savana Sharp on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok for even more great content and insider tips. Join the community on Facebook!

We've got some fantastic discount codes and links to share with you today! Use code "SAVANAS" for 10% off your purchase of Angel Competition Bikinis, and sign up for a free consultation with Savana to design your dream competition suit.

If you need help with bikini posing, book a session with Savana at https://calendly.com/savanasharpposing

If you would like to work 1:1 for bikini prep or lifestyle coaching with Savana please apply for coaching here: https://savanasharp.com/lifestyle-coaching-application/

Looking for some sweet Cupcakes & Protein Shakes merch? Check out our store at https://www.bonfire.com/store/s...

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.

Follow on IG at: @eighteendiagnostics @balanceandbodydiagnostics

website: https://www.balanceandbodydiagnostics.ca/

Welcome to Cupcakes & Protein Shakes, the podcast that gives you the tools and inspiration you need to achieve your fitness and wellness goals. Follow your host Savana Sharp on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok for even more great content and insider tips. Join the community on Facebook!

We've got some fantastic discount codes and links to share with you today! Use code "SAVANAS" for 10% off your purchase of Angel Competition Bikinis, and sign up for a free consultation with Savana to design your dream competition suit.

If you need help with bikini posing, book a session with Savana at https://calendly.com/savanasharpposing

If you would like to work 1:1 for bikini prep or lifestyle coaching with Savana please apply for coaching here: https://savanasharp.com/lifestyle-coaching-application/

Looking for some sweet Cupcakes & Protein Shakes merch? Check out our store at https://www.bonfire.com/store/s...

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 competition prep timeline: When to start & what to expect
✅ How to choose the right division (Bikini, Figure, Wellness, etc.)
✅ Mindset shifts to succeed on stage

📩 Want to work with me? Apply for coaching: https://savanasharp.com/
📲 Follow for more fitness tips: [Insert Social Links]

🚀 If you enjoy this episode, please rate & review—it helps more aspiring competitors find us!

Welcome to Cupcakes & Protein Shakes, the podcast that gives you the tools and inspiration you need to achieve your fitness and wellness goals. Follow your host Savana Sharp on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok for even more great content and insider tips. Join the community on Facebook!

We've got some fantastic discount codes and links to share with you today! Use code "SAVANAS" for 10% off your purchase of Angel Competition Bikinis, and sign up for a free consultation with Savana to design your dream competition suit.

If you need help with bikini posing, book a session with Savana at https://calendly.com/savanasharpposing

If you would like to work 1:1 for bikini prep or lifestyle coaching with Savana please apply for coaching here: https://savanasharp.com/lifestyle-coaching-application/

Looking for some sweet Cupcakes & Protein Shakes merch? Check out our store at https://www.bonfire.com/store/s...

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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 emotionally invested.
• Learned it’s normal to lose in the first show and not to expect immediate success.

Competition History (7 Shows Since 2022)

• 2022: Two shows, lacked proper preparation and results.
• 2023: Competed in Germany, switched to a strict coach 7 weeks out, followed an intense vegetarian egg-white-based diet, and placed 3rd in Texas. Improved posing significantly.
• 2024: Two shows after a 12-week cut, placed 4th in both, including the competitive Republic of Texas show.

Lessons Learned & Goals

• Key takeaway: Stay consistent with diet and training, no cheating if you want results.
• Big goal: Earn a Pro Card, grow during the offseason, and continue competing.

Key Changes & Support System

• Best improvement: Followed the plan diligently, hired expert posing coaches (Lauren Dannenmiller or Bec from Posing School).
• Suit color: Aquamarine, perfectly complemented her skin tone.
• Transitioned careers from photography to vet tech.

Training & Nutrition

• Cardio peaked at 2 hours/day.
• Follows a meal plan without focusing on calorie count for better mental adherence.

Mindset

• Focus on enjoying the stage experience rather than obsessing over placing.
• Accepts the subjectivity of the sport; success requires patience and persistence.
• Cautions against gambling with shows or coaches—find a reliable support system.

Closing Message

• Embrace the journey, celebrate progress, and remain disciplined—it’s a marathon, not a sprint.

Follow IG: https://www.instagram

Welcome to Cupcakes & Protein Shakes, the podcast that gives you the tools and inspiration you need to achieve your fitness and wellness goals. Follow your host Savana Sharp on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok for even more great content and insider tips. Join the community on Facebook!

We've got some fantastic discount codes and links to share with you today! Use code "SAVANAS" for 10% off your purchase of Angel Competition Bikinis, and sign up for a free consultation with Savana to design your dream competition suit.

If you need help with bikini posing, book a session with Savana at https://calendly.com/savanasharpposing

If you would like to work 1:1 for bikini prep or lifestyle coaching with Savana please apply for coaching here: https://savanasharp.com/lifestyle-coaching-application/

Looking for some sweet Cupcakes & Protein Shakes merch? Check out our store at https://www.bonfire.com/store/s...

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 with challenges, growth, and lessons in discipline.

Felicia talks about balancing prep with college life, overcoming the struggles of post-show indulgence, and her progression from novice competitor to a more conditioned, confident athlete. She reflects on her first three shows, the highs and lows of competing, and the mindset shift needed to embrace improvement seasons and long-term goals.

Her story highlights the value of patience, discipline, and the importance of putting in daily efforts to match your aspirations. From dreaming about the stage to setting sights on 2025 and 2026, Felicia’s journey is a testament to resilience and the mental toughness required to thrive in bodybuilding.

Key Takeaways:

• Balancing school, prep, and personal growth.
• Lessons learned from post-show struggles.
• The importance of taking time off for improvement.
• Building discipline and embracing the grind.

Follow her journey at @feliciacchang

Welcome to Cupcakes & Protein Shakes, the podcast that gives you the tools and inspiration you need to achieve your fitness and wellness goals. Follow your host Savana Sharp on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok for even more great content and insider tips. Join the community on Facebook!

We've got some fantastic discount codes and links to share with you today! Use code "SAVANAS" for 10% off your purchase of Angel Competition Bikinis, and sign up for a free consultation with Savana to design your dream competition suit.

If you need help with bikini posing, book a session with Savana at https://calendly.com/savanasharpposing

If you would like to work 1:1 for bikini prep or lifestyle coaching with Savana please apply for coaching here: https://savanasharp.com/lifestyle-coaching-application/

Looking for some sweet Cupcakes & Protein Shakes merch? Check out our store at https://www.bonfire.com/store/s...