The Refined Strength Podcast

In this episode of the Refined Strength podcast, hosts Rachel Sedwick, Daraja Weidemeyer, and Jess Best celebrate two years of Refined Strength while sharing personal updates and challenges. They discuss the pressures of expectations in bodybuilding, the impact of social media and comparison, and the importance of mental health during competition prep. 

Where to find today’s guest:
IG: @jessica.e.best @darajaweid
Website:
Follow & engage with me:
www.refinedstrengthcoaching.com
IG: @rachelsedwickifbb & @refined.strength.coaching
Discount Codes:
Axe & 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 sit down with IFBB Pro Austin Karr about the evolution of the Steve Carr Classic bodybuilding show, the importance of women's bodybuilding, and the challenges faced by competitors. Austin shares his journey in the sport, including health challenges and the significance of supporting athletes through promoting shows. 

Where to find today’s guest:

IG: @ifbbproaustin @npc_stevekarrlasvegasclassic

NPC Steve Karr Las Vegas Classic

November 8, 2025

Alexis Park 375 E Harmon Ave Las Vegas, NV 89169

Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2025-ifbbnpc-steve-karr-classic-and-npc-natural-city-of-lights-weekend-tickets-1766458588189?aff=oddtdtcreator

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

We're back! This is season 2 with coaches Rachel Sedwick, Jessica Best and Daraja Weidemoyer. Together we discuss the critical issue of burnout among athletes and coaches, exploring its signs, causes, and the importance of rest and recovery. We emphasize the need for mindfulness and stress management techniques to maintain mental health and performance. 

Where to find today’s guest:

IG: @jessica.e.best @darajaweid

Website:

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 special Q&A episode of the Refined Strength Podcast, we dive into the questions that matter most to our listeners. From my transition from corporate America to becoming a full-time coach, to the mindset shifts that have shaped my journey as a competitor, this episode is packed with insights and personal stories. Whether you're an aspiring coach or an athlete, there's something here for everyone. Join me as I share the lessons learned and the pivotal moments that have defined my path. Tune in for a profound exploration of growth, resilience, and the power of community.

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 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