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Confessions of a Bikini Pro

Confessions of a Bikini Pro

By: Celeste Rains-Turk
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Summary

 The Confessions of a Bikini Pro Podcast is the only place where IFBB Bikini Pros share their struggles, strategies, stories, insights, and advice in a real, raw, and vulnerable setting. Host, Celeste Rains-Turk, dives into the parts of these professionals' lives that aren't always openly discussed in the public eye or on social media (You know, the stuff we tend to wonder about the most). The goal of this podcast is to educate, inspire, and remind other competitors, athletes, or the average gym goer that even the most elite professionals face hardships, health problems, mental obstacles, and other adversities. There are a wide range of topics discussed including, but DEFINITELY NOT limited to; post show rebound, health complications, eating disorders, mental illnesses, winning mindset, dealing with losses, judges feedback, approaches to the stage, life outside of competing, money, relationships, philosophy, pursuing passions, and SO MUCH MORE! All show notes, links, and information can be found on www.celestial.fit/podcast Make sure to SUBSCRIBE, RATE, AND REVIEW THIS PODCAST if you LOVE it as much as we do so we can continue spreading the message to people worldwide! And be sure to follow https://www.instagram.com/celestial_fit/ too so you never miss an episode! Exercise & Fitness Fitness, Diet & Nutrition Hygiene & Healthy Living Psychology Psychology & Mental Health
Episodes
  • KYLA DICKERSON- Fit Model Pro

    KYLA DICKERSON- Fit Model Pro
    May 15 2026
    Celeste interviewed Kyla Dickerson, an IFBB fit model pro, coach, and posing specialist who has competed in 28 marathons and is redefining strength and confidence for women over 40 in bodybuilding. Kyla shared how her late mother instilled visualization techniques in her at a young age, including a specific example of learning to do a back dive, which became a foundation for her approach to achieving goals. The conversation touched on Kyla's pre-competition rituals and her mother's belief in visualization and manifestation, which Kyla described as key to her success across various endeavors including marathons and pageants. Personal Philosophy and Career Support Kyla shared her personal philosophy of staying true to herself regardless of her surroundings, inspired by her mother's advice to "live like it's your last day." She discussed how her husband supports her career as an athlete and IPV fitness model, with him encouraging her to focus on helping women over 40 feel better in their bodies and minds. Kyla expressed gratitude for her husband's support and mentioned her regret about not taking a photo with him after receiving her pro card at her first competition. Kyla's First Pro Show Victory Kyla shared her experience winning her first pro show, describing the challenging journey to Pittsburgh Nationals where she faced multiple obstacles including weather delays, flight changes, and her husband getting sick. Despite these difficulties, Kyla and a fellow competitor who was also traveling to the show managed to find accommodations and workout facilities. When Kyla won the pro card, she was genuinely surprised as she had been discouraged by her previous bikini competition experiences and had initially planned not to compete at all that year. Fit Model Competition Experience Kyla shared her experience competing in her first professional fit model show, where she placed 5th in the Masters division. She discussed the unique aspects of fit model competitions, including the unpredictability of placements and the opportunity to connect with other competitors. Kyla expressed her preference for competing in the Masters category and shared feedback about her performance, including suggestions for improvement. She also mentioned plans to discuss concerns about the treatment of the Masters division compared to Open division on a podcast. Masters vs Open Division Disparities Kyla expressed concerns about discrepancies in prize money and placement recognition between Masters and Open divisions at a competition. She noted that Masters competitors were not charged to compete but questioned why they received different treatment in terms of prize money and placement recognition compared to Open competitors. Kyla emphasized the need for equal treatment between divisions, particularly highlighting the challenges faced by older competitors in the Masters division. Physique Competition Division Strategies Kyla and Celeste discussed the challenges and strategies in competitive physique shows, particularly focusing on the differences between the Masters and Open divisions. They explored how placement in one division might affect competitors' performance in the other, with Celeste suggesting that going first in the Open division could be advantageous. Kyla emphasized the importance of not letting placement define an athlete's future in the sport and highlighted the success of pro show winners who embody the fit model look. The conversation also touched on the inspiring presence of older competitors and Kyla's mission to empower women over 40 through her achievements and story of discipline in the sport. Coaching for Women Over 40 Kyla discussed her coaching approach for women over 40, emphasizing that sustainable transformation is possible without extreme measures. She shared personal experiences with body dysmorphia and how running helped her cope with challenges in her first marriage and her mother's illness. Kyla explained that her motivation in bodybuilding comes from wanting her mother to have experienced the joy of fitness, as her mother was unable to participate due to health issues. Mother's Inspiration in Fitness Career Kyla shared how her late mother Darla inspired her fitness career, particularly after her mother's passing when Kyla became a group fitness instructor. She described how her mother's resilience during her final illness, including continuing to find joy despite severe pain and broken bones, motivated Kyla to push through her own challenges during marathon training. Kyla emphasized the importance of cherishing time with loved ones and not taking moments together for granted. Loss and Memory Preservation Discussion Celeste and Kyla discussed their experiences with loss and how they carry their loved ones' memories forward. Kyla shared how she connects with her mother and brother through meaningful symbols and experiences, including the significance of the number 444. They also discussed Kyla's role as a ...
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    1 hr and 27 mins
  • EMILY CHANEL- Fit Model

    EMILY CHANEL- Fit Model
    May 8 2026

    Celeste hosted Fit Model Pro Champion Emily Chanel, who shared her inspirational journey from military service and depression to becoming the first-ever Fit Model Pro and Olympia qualifier. The discussion centered on how bodybuilding transformed her mental health, how she balances multiple roles as a mother, counselor, and athlete, and how she promotes growth within the emerging Fit Model division. Emily emphasized resilience, authenticity, and mental discipline as the keys to success. She also discussed her relationship with her fiancé Stan, who helped her stay natural and grounded in the sport, and her passion for guiding new competitors through posing and presentation coaching.

    Key Discussion Topics

    1. Career and Fit Model Division Leadership

    • Emily is the first-ever Fit Model Pro Champion and inaugural Olympia qualifier.

    • Competed since 2021; upcoming shows:New York Pro and Pittsburgh Pro, both used to gain Olympia panel feedback before the Olympia.

    • Sees her role as helping define and promote the Fit Model division, encouraging more women to join through YouTube vlogs, posing clinics, and direct outreach.

    2. Mental Health and Bodybuilding Connection

    • Military veteran andmental health counselor specializing in addiction.

    • Uses principles likeresilience, breath control, and disciplineto stay grounded during prep.

    • Bodybuilding initially helped her recover fromdepression and traumaduring her divorce and single motherhood.

    3. Motherhood and Balance

    • Raises two children; attributes patience, consistency, and routine learned from parenting to her bodybuilding success.

    • Being active sets a healthy example for her kids, teaching self‑care, structure, and resilience.

    4. Relationship and Support System

    • Fiancé Stan, a seasoned Olympian, influenced her mindset, helping her recognize bodybuilding's artistry and importance of staying natural.

    • They balance one another—Emily adds fun and flexibility, while Stan provides focus and discipline.

    5. Coaching and Professional Identity

    • Runs posing sessions emphasizing confidence, stage presence, and mental readiness.

    • Differentiates between being a counselor and a posing coach to keep professional boundaries clear.

    • Uses motivational interviewing techniques to boost clients' self‑belief and composure.

    6. Personal Philosophy and Advice

    • Advocates forpatience, routine, community, and gratitude.

    • Advises new competitors to enjoy the process and surround themselves with positive influences.

    • For aspiring pros: practice resilience, learn from feedback, and act "as a pro" before earning the title.

    Highlights

    • Journey Origin:Began lifting post‑divorce to combat depression; found purpose in bodybuilding.

    • Professional Cross‑Over:Incorporates counseling skills—resilience and mindfulness—into athletic coaching.

    • Representation:Leading advocate for Fit Model division's legitimacy and accessibility.

    • Quote Insight:"Bodybuilding isn't just physical building; it's mental, emotional, and life‑building."

    Source Note:This summary is based on information from a recorded podcast interview. Other related materials or updates may exist beyond this meeting.

    CONNECT WITH EMILY:

    https://www.instagram.com/emilychanell/

    ALL LINKS: https://linktr.ee/emilychanel?utm_source=linktree_profile_share
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    1 hr and 21 mins
  • KAYLA TRULUCK- Fit Model Pro

    KAYLA TRULUCK- Fit Model Pro
    May 1 2026
    Celeste Rains-Turk interviewed newly crowned IFBB Fit Model Pro Kayla Truluck about her unique journey from bikini competition to becoming one of the first ten IFBB fit model pros. The conversation explored Kayla's competition experiences, faith, career as a nurse practitioner, personal life, and her holistic approach to bodybuilding. Kayla shared insights on training adaptations for the fit model division, refeed strategies, mindset, faith practices, and balancing her competitive goals with her healthcare career and personal life. They also discussed her upcoming pro debut, community involvement, and encouragement for other competitors. Key Discussion Topics 1. Transition to Fit Model Division Kayla switched from bikini to fit model only 6–8 weeks before her show, prompted by her coach and curiosity about the new category. She stopped training shoulders to adapt her physique, found the posing moderately different, and achieved early success by winning the Peach Classic and earning her pro card at Junior Nationals. 2. Competition Experiences & Preparation Preparing for her pro debut at St. Pete Pro in June 2026, with Tampa Pro planned a month later. Prefers a slower, sustainable prep style emphasizing refeeds (5–6 to date). Refeeds consist mainly of chicken sandwiches and fries, controlled with familiar condiments, occasionally including a cookie. 3. Mindset, Nervousness & Stage Rituals Uses prayer and mental cues from her posing coach to stay grounded and calm on stage. Keeps a lighthearted, sociable attitude backstage to manage nerves. 4. Balancing Career & Fitness Works full-time as a nurse practitioner performing pre-employment and VA disability exams. Finds fulfillment in helping veterans and building patient relationships. Prefers maintaining a career outside fitness to avoid burnout and keep perspective. 5. Faith and Personal Growth Practices daily devotionals and Bible reading; participates in a yearly plan and weekly devotional with her husband. Faith helped her navigate divorce and rediscover strength and purpose before meeting her current husband. 6. Personal Life and Faith Journey Met her husband serendipitously on a Southwest flight; they connected instantly and view it as a "God moment." Reflected on redemption after a challenging first marriage, citing faith as central to her healing and renewed joy. 7. Community, Volunteering, & Work-Life Balance Volunteers teaching young children at church, finding joy and purpose in service despite exhaustion. Maintains early morning workout routines, structured meal prep, and quiet time for reflection. 8. Humor and Behind-the-Scenes Moments Shared lighthearted competition stories including nearly missing stage call due to "nervous poops" after coffee and waking up with tan handprints. Emphasized that competing "isn't glamorous behind the scenes." Key Takeaways & Advice For New Competitors: Join the bodybuilding community early and find a supportive, experienced coach. Learn about nutrition, posing, and training before stepping on stage. Approach the process with patience—don't rush competition readiness. For Those on the Road to Pro: Trust the process and your coach. Focus on personal growth, not just winning. Celebrate each phase, knowing success unfolds according to God's plan. Source Note:This summary is based on multiple meeting transcripts from a recorded podcast interview between Celeste Rains-Turk and Kayla Truluck. Additional related materials may exist beyond those included here. CONNECT WITH KAYLA: https://www.instagram.com/kaylafitpro/ CONNECT WITH CELESTE: Website:http://www.celestial.fit Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/celestial_fit/ All Links:http://www.celestial.fit/links.html
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    1 hr and 20 mins
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