In this episode of the Refined Strength podcast, IFBB Figure Pro Ashley Lakomowski and I sit down to discuss mindset and self-acceptance. Ashley shares her experiences with personal loss, the evolution of her body image, and the significance of community in bodybuilding. The conversation emphasizes the need for balance in life and the importance of trusting the process, while also providing insights into coaching and helping others. 

Where to find today’s guest:

IG: @fittestashever

Photography: @my.vizions

Reach out for Personal Training @trainanytime

www.trainanytimetx.com

Follow & engage with me:

www.refinedstrengthcoaching.com

IG: @rachelsedwickifbb & @refined.strength.coaching

Discount Codes:

Axe And Sledge Supplements: RACHEL 

KHCustoms Posing & Stage Suits: RACHELS

Cured Nutrition: RACHELS (15% off)

Synergistic Labs: REFINED

Jawku Massage Guns: RACHELS

In this episode, I spoke to Annie Baker, a crowd favorite up-and-coming bikini competitor with a heart of gold. We talk about her journey from Bikini to fit model and back to Bikini, as well as exploring the transformative power of authenticity and self-identity in the pursuit of personal and professional goals. Discover how staying true to oneself can unlock potential and drive success, even in the face of external pressures and expectations. We discuss the role of self-awareness in goal-setting and the impact of embracing one's unique identity. 

Where to find today’s guest:

IG @anniebaker

Follow & engage with me:

www.refinedstrengthcoaching.com

IG: @rachelsedwickifbb & @refined.strength.coaching

Discount Codes:

Axe And Sledge Supplements: RACHEL 

KHCustoms Posing & Stage Suits: RACHELS

Cured Nutrition: RACHELS (15% off)

Synergistic Labs: REFINED

Jawku Massage Guns: RACHELS

In this episode, we welcome Michelle West as she shares her inspiring journey from being a Broadway performer to a Fitness & Nutrition Coach and Owner of her business, BIA Nutrition. She discusses the challenges she faced in her journey to and through Broadway, the importance of nutrition and mindset in fitness, and how she built her coaching business. She offers valuable advice for aspiring performers, athletes and coaches, encouraging them to embrace hard work and kindness in their pursuits.

Where to find today’s guest:

IG @chelleywest

Website: bianutrition.com/connect

Follow & engage with me:

www.refinedstrengthcoaching.com

IG: @rachelsedwickifbb & @refined.strength.coaching

Discount Codes:

Axe And Sledge Supplements: RACHEL 

KHCustoms Posing & Stage Suits: RACHELS

Cured Nutrition: RACHELS (15% off)

Synergistic Labs: REFINED

Jawku Massage Guns: RACHELS

In this episode of the Refined Strength Podcast, we welcome the whole squad. Coaches Rachel, Jess, and Daraja discuss recent experiences, including personal updates and reflections on the 2025 Refined Retreat in Dallas. We emphasize the importance of community in bodybuilding, sharing insights on how we've built the team culture we have at Refined Strength as well as how that culture helps our athletes become the best versions of themselves FOR themselves through encouraging personal growth and connection within the bodybuilding community.

Where to find today’s guest:

IG: @darajaweid @jessica.e.best

Follow & engage with me:

www.refinedstrengthcoaching.com

IG: @rachelsedwickifbb & @refined.strength.coaching

Discount Codes:

Axe And Sledge Supplements: RACHEL 

KHCustoms Posing & Stage Suits: RACHELS

Cured Nutrition: RACHELS (15% off)

Synergistic Labs: REFINED

Jawku Massage Guns: RACHELS

In today's episode I sit down and interview Freddy Naidu, a prominent figure in the bodybuilding community as part owner of Battle Up Productions and Battle Up Media. Freddy shares his journey from competing in the sport, becoming the first Indian American on the Olympia stage in the Men's Physique division to becoming a promoter of major events like the Texas Pro, Battle of Texas, Phil Heath Super show, and more. He discusses the importance of creating a positive experience for athletes, the role of media in promoting competitions, and the challenges faced in being a part of growing the sport for all divisions. The IFBB Texas Pro and the NPC Texas Classic is officially 4 weeks out! Come by the Refined Strength booth to meet Rachel and the team and see the biggest and best show in the country!

Where to find today’s guest:
IG: @freddynaidu @battleupproductions
Website: www.battleup.com 

Follow & engage with me:

www.refinedstrengthcoaching.com

IG: @rachelsedwickifbb & @refined.strength.coaching

Discount Codes:

Axe And Sledge Supplements: RACHEL 

KHCustoms Posing & Stage Suits: RACHELS

Cured Nutrition: RACHELS (15% off)

Synergistic Labs: REFINED

Jawku Massage Guns: RACHELS

In this episode of the Refined Strength Podcast I sit down to talk with my friend and fellow coach Jessica Best to discuss the journey of athletes in bodybuilding, focusing on the transition from regional competitions to national and pro levels. They emphasize the importance of feedback, the pressure of competing, and the mindset required for success. The conversation highlights the significance of enjoying the process, the role of coaching, and the need for patience and growth in the sport.

Follow & engage with me:

www.refinedstrengthcoaching.com

IG: @rachelsedwickifbb & @refined.strength.coaching

Discount Codes:

Axe And Sledge Supplements: RACHEL 

KHCustoms Posing & Stage Suits: RACHELS

Cured Nutrition: RACHELS (15% off)

Synergistic Labs: REFINED

Jawku Massage Guns: RACHELS

In this episode of the Refined Strength Podcast, IFBB WPD Chelsea Rogers and I discuss the evolution of bodybuilding, particularly in relation to performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs) and the women's divisions. We explore the pressures athletes face, the importance of education, and the need for trust in coaching relationships. Our conversation also highlights the significance of health and the necessity of regular blood work for athletes, regardless of their competitive status. 

Where to find today’s guest:

IG: chel_beast.ifbbpro

Follow & engage with me:

www.refinedstrengthcoaching.com

IG: @rachelsedwickifbb & @refined.strength.coaching

Discount Codes:

Axe and Sledge Supplements: RACHEL

KHCustoms Posing & Stage Suits: RACHELS

Cured Nutrition: RACHELS (15% off)

Synergistic Labs: REFINED

Jawku Massage Guns: RACHELS

Welcome Austin Stout, a respected figure in functional health coaching, to the Refined Strength Podcast. In this episode, we will dive into the complexities of bodybuilding, emphasizing the balance between risk and reward, the importance of longevity, and the necessity of personal accountability. We discuss the mental and physical challenges athletes face, the significance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle beyond competition, and the need for a supportive environment. The dialogue highlights that success in bodybuilding is not just about physical prowess but also about mental resilience and the ability to enjoy the journey.

Where to find today’s guest:

IG: austinst8

Website: integratedmuscle.wordpress.com

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

In this episode I interview Josiah Rivera, AKA Grassfed, a notable posing coach in the bodybuilding world. Josiah shares his unique journey from being a cattle farmer to becoming a successful posing coach. He shares his experiences transitioning from college to competing, and how he built his posing coaching business. Together we emphasize the need for supportive coaching and the significance of finding the right coach for individual athletes.

Where to find today’s guest:

IG @grassfedfitness

Website: https://tr.ee/fqH3i6jAWZ

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

In this episode of the Refined Strength podcast, I have the pleasure of welcoming new IFBB Pro, Miranda Defler. Miranda's story serves as an inspiration for aspiring athletes and coaches alike. She emphasizes the significance of protecting one's energy, emotional control, and the power of belief in achieving goals.  In this conversation, we explore self-empowerment, the importance of love and joy in the journey of bodybuilding, and the mindset needed for personal growth and success.

Where to find today’s guest:

IG @miranda.thenattypro

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