In this episode, I’m joined by fellow prep coach Jojo Hart (@ohhhjojo) for an honest, no-fluff conversation on our biggest competition hot takes as coaches who live and breathe the prep world.
We dive into the real differences between big-name teams vs. solo coaches, the pros, cons, and what competitors actually need to consider when choosing a coach. We also talk about something that doesn’t get enough attention in this industry: learning how to lose, navigating disappointment on stage, and why placing doesn’t define your worth or success.
Jojo and I also unpack the importance of developing a strong “why” behind stepping on stage, especially in a sport that can quickly blur the line between growth, validation, and burnout. This episode is for competitors who want to approach bodybuilding with more intention, maturity, and long-term perspective—both physically and mentally.
Whether you’re a first-time competitor or a seasoned athlete, this conversation will challenge how you think about prep, coaching, and success beyond the trophies.
🎧 Tune in for honest insight, coach-to-coach perspective, and the conversations competitors need to hear.
Follow Jojo: @ohhhjojo
Follow me & learn more about coaching: @NicoleFerrierFitness
Online Coaching: www.nicoleferrierfitness.com
In this episode of the podcast, I sit down with Jess Barron, also known as @theredheadrd, to have an honest conversation about the growing problem with “SkinnyTok” and the impact of skinny-focused messaging across social media.
We break down how these trends are repackaging diet culture under the guise of “health,” why this content is so harmful, and how easily it can pull people back into restriction, comparison, and disordered thinking. Jess and I both share our own experiences navigating poor messaging online, how it affected our relationship with food and our bodies, and what it took to unlearn those patterns.
We also talk about how to consume social media more intentionally how to spot red flags, curate your feed, and protect your mental and physical health in an online space that often rewards extremes. This episode is a must-listen if you’ve ever felt triggered, confused, or pressured by what you see online and want a more grounded, evidence-based approach to health.
Coaching with Nicole Ferrier Fitness:
I offer fully online, individualized coaching for both lifestyle and competition-based clients. With a bachelor’s degree in exercise science and nearly a decade of coaching experience, my approach focuses on sustainable training, evidence-based nutrition, and building a healthy relationship with food and your body without extremes.
Follow Jess on Instagram: @theredheadrd
Connect with me: @NicoleFerrierFitness | www.nicoleferrierfitness.com
Here’s the updated version with his IG and your info added:
Episode: The Rise of Fit Model with Adam Adkinson
In this episode, I sit down with Adam Adkinson (@seeyoutlaterleaner) to talk about one of the biggest shifts happening in the NPC right now the surge of bikini competitors transitioning into the Fit Model division. We dive into why so many athletes are gravitating toward this category, what Fit Model is offering that bikini currently isn’t, and how this move is already reshaping the competitive landscape.
Adam and I break down the impact Fit Model has made in such a short amount of time, from shifts in judging priorities to the trends we’re seeing both on regional stages and at national-level shows. We also cover the emerging direction of the division—what physiques are standing out, how presentation is evolving, and what athletes should consider if they’re thinking about making the transition.
If you’re curious about Fit Model, questioning where bikini is heading, or trying to figure out which division aligns best with your physique and long-term goals, this episode will give you the clarity you need.
Connect with me:
Website: www.nicoleferrierfitness.com
Instagram & Tiktok: @NicoleFerrierFitness
Online Coaching: Applications available through my website.
In this episode, I’m joined by the amazing Sammy Jo, the cohost of Bikini Things and a voice so many women in the competing space trust. Together, we dive deep into the evolution of female bodybuilding how far the sport has come, how quickly it’s changing, and the good and the not-so-good that comes with that growth.
We also open up about the dark side of competing—the pressures, the extremes, the mental toll, and the misconceptions people outside the sport rarely see. This is an honest, necessary conversation for any woman navigating this world.
Plus, we get into the introduction of the Fit Model division what it means for athletes, what we love about it, what feels uncertain, and where we think this category is heading.
Whether you're a competitor, a fan of the sport, or someone fascinated by the shifting landscape of women’s physique divisions, this episode is packed with insight and real talk.
Connect with Sammy on Instagram: @itssammyjo_
Coaching & Contact:
Work with me: www.nicoleferrierfitness.com
Instagram: @NicoleFerrierFitness
Email: nicoleferrierfitness@gmail.com
Trigger Warning: In this episode, I discuss disordered eating patterns, food obsession, and body image struggles. Please listen only if you feel emotionally ready and safe to do so.
In this solo episode, I get deeply vulnerable and open up about how I healed my relationship with food. I walk you through the mindset shifts, the uncomfortable truths, and the internal work I had to face after years of tying my worth to how little I ate or how much control I thought I had.
I also talk about therapy specifically how I understand and fully support that many people do need therapy to truly recover. While I personally didn’t use therapy in my own healing process, I want to be very clear that there is absolutely no shame in seeking professional help, and for many, it’s an essential and powerful part of the journey.
I share the real behind-the-scenes not the highlight reel of what healing looked like for me: the setbacks, the breakthroughs, and the habits that helped me re-learn how to trust myself around food.
If you’ve ever felt trapped in food noise, guilt, or binge–restrict cycles, this episode will make you feel seen. My hope is that it reminds you that healing is possible, you’re not alone, and you deserve freedom with food just as much as anyone else.
Tune in, get cozy, and let’s go there—together.
Work with me:
If you’re ready to improve your relationship with food, build confidence in your nutrition, or take your fitness goals to the next level, you can apply for coaching at NicoleFerrierFitness.com.
Connect with me:
Instagram: @NicoleFerrierFitness
TikTok: @NicoleFerrierFitness
Here’s the updated version with her Instagram included:
In this episode, I’m joined by my assistant coach Mary (@marykuettel_fitness) to break down real, sustainable healthy eating tips for the holidays. Because let’s be honest this season can feel like a minefield of parties, travel, and meals that pull you away from your routine. But it doesn’t have to derail your goals.
Mary and I talk through how to approach holiday eating with intention instead of guilt, how to build balanced plates without feeling restricted, and the mindset shifts that help you enjoy your favorite foods while still honoring your goals. We also share strategies we use with our own clients—like managing portions, keeping protein a priority, staying consistent with your non-negotiables, and navigating those “food pushers” without stress.
If you want to head into the holidays feeling confident, grounded, and in control (without skipping the Christmas cookies), this episode is for you.
Apply for coaching at www.nicoleferrierfitness.com.
In this episode, I’m joined by @hollytbaxter, and we dive deep into muscle growth for women what the science actually says and how to optimize your time in the gym. 💪
We break down research on training frequency, recovery, volume, and nutrition, and discuss how women can build muscle effectively without wasting hours in the gym or falling for common myths.
If you want to understand what really drives results and how to make your training more efficient, this episode is a must-listen.
If you're wanting to learn more about my coaching services you can access the link below. 💻 Apply for coaching at www.nicoleferrierfitness.com
Today I’m joined by Kelly Ross (@kellynicolefit) to talk about something so many women experience but don’t have the words for — feeling “skinny fat.” We break down what actually creates a toned, defined look, why eating less and doing more cardio won’t get you there, and how to approach true body recomposition through fueling your body and training with intention.
If you feel like you're “doing everything right” but not seeing the muscle tone or shape you want, this episode will give you clarity on where to go from here.
If this conversation resonates and you’re ready to start applying for coaching, you can learn more at www.nicoleferrierfitness.com.
This is a solo episode where I break down one of the most common fears I see with women in their fitness journey: “If I eat more to build muscle, won’t I just gain fat?”
The truth is you can build muscle without piling on unnecessary body fat. But it takes intention, a structured plan, and understanding what your body actually needs to grow.
We’ll talk about what a real muscle-building phase looks like (not a free-for-all “bulk”), how to confidently increase calories, and why some weight gain is normal—but how to make sure it’s mostly lean muscle and not just fluff. I’ll walk you through exactly what to focus on with both nutrition and training so you can build shape, curves, and strength without feeling like you’re losing yourself in the process.
In this episode I cover:
How to set calories to support muscle growth without overeating
The difference between muscle gain and simply gaining weight
What effective hypertrophy training actually looks like
Why muscle building takes time and how to stay patient and grounded
How to minimize fat gain while adding size and tone
If you’ve ever felt afraid to eat more because you didn’t want to “ruin” your progress this episode will help you move with confidence.
Want coaching or support?
Apply for 1:1 coaching at www.nicoleferrierfitness.com or send me a message @NicoleFerrierFitness on Instagram.
In this episode, I’m joined by Austin Stout, also known as @austinst8 on Instagram an experienced online coach with a strong background in bodybuilding, body recomposition, functional health, and mentoring.
We dive into the world of functional health and discuss how this space, while valuable, can sometimes take things too far — leaving people feeling like they’re broken or that something is always “wrong” with their body. Austin and I unpack why many people are skipping over the fundamentals and how mastering the basics often leads to better progress than chasing every lab marker or supplement trend.
We also touch on how data collection — from tracking metrics to running excessive lab work — can actually backfire when it becomes obsessive and causes more stress than benefit.
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by all the “functional” advice online, this episode will help you zoom out, simplify, and refocus on what truly matters for your health and results.
Follow Austin on Instagram: @austinst8
Follow me on Instagram: @NicoleFerrierFitness
Learn more about coaching at www.nicoleferrierfitness.com
In this solo episode, I’m diving into how to actually set yourself up for a successful fat loss phase. So many women jump into a cut without realizing the key things they need to have in place first and it ends up making the process harder than it needs to be. I’m breaking down the most common mistakes I see (and ones I’ve made myself), plus what to focus on before you start dieting so you can lose weight with ease, maintain your results, and feel your best throughout the process.
Whether you’re prepping for a competition or simply want to feel more confident in your body, this episode will give you the tools to go into your next cut with clarity and confidence.
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Connect with me:
Instagram: @NicoleFerrierFitness
YouTube: Nicole Ferrier Fitness
TikTok: @NicoleFerrierFitness
Website: www.nicoleferrierfitness.com
Apply for Coaching:
If you’re ready for 1:1 guidance to reach your goals, apply for coaching at www.nicoleferrierfitness.com/coaching
In this episode, I’m joined by IFBB Pro Phoebe Hagan (@phoebehagan_) to talk all things bikini posing, presentation, and evolution within the sport.
We break down why posing is one of the most important parts of bikini competition prep not just for show day, but for confidence, stage presence, and bringing your best look to life. Phoebe shares insights from her experience as both a professional athlete and posing coach, discussing how bikini has evolved over the years and how the division’s standards differ around the world.
We also dive into the differences between amateur and pro posing routines, how to build your own unique style on stage, and what judges are really looking for in a winning presentation.
Whether you’re a bikini competitor, coach, or aspiring athlete, this episode will give you valuable takeaways to elevate your posing game and better understand the artistry behind bikini competing.
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Connect with Phoebe: @phoebehagan_
Connect with Nicole:
Website: www.nicoleferrierfitness.com
Instagram: @nicoleferrierfitness
In this episode, I sit down with Erin Crawford to have an honest and insightful conversation about GLP medications how they work, what people aren’t talking about, and the potential dark side behind their growing popularity.
Erin, known as @innately_nourished on Instagram, shares her professional perspective on how these drugs affect the body, metabolism, and relationship with food. Together, we uncover what you really need to know before deciding if a GLP is right for you.
If you’ve been thinking about trying a GLP or are curious about how they impact long-term health, this is an episode you don’t want to skip. It’s all about cutting through the noise and helping you make informed, empowered choices for your body.
Connect with Erin:
Instagram: @innately_nourished
Connect with Nicole Ferrier Fitness:
Website: www.nicoleferrierfitness.com
Instagram: @NicoleFerrierFitness
TikTok: @NicoleFerrierFitness
Coaching Inquiries: Visit the website for 1:1 coaching and programs
🎙️ In this episode, I sit down with Sammi Radzai (@sammirad_ifbbpro)—an IFBB Fitness Pro whose journey is nothing short of inspiring. We dive into her transition from athlete to bodybuilder and what it really takes to succeed at the highest level of competition.
Sammi shares how she balances the demands of bodybuilding prep while also pursuing her college degree, proving that chasing your goals doesn’t require the “perfect” timing or circumstances.
If you’ve ever felt like you need everything lined up before you start, this conversation will shift your perspective. Sammi’s story is a reminder that you can begin right where you are and grow along the way.
Tune in for an honest, motivating discussion that blends discipline, resilience, and the reality of balancing big dreams with real-life responsibilities.
✨ Connect with me for coaching and more:
📲 Instagram: @NicoleFerrierFitness
🎥 TikTok: @NicoleFerrierFitness
🌐 Coaching & Programs: www.nicoleferrierfitness.com
In this episode, I sit down with my client Kailyi Boles to share her journey leading up to her very first bikini competition. Together, we navigated the ups and downs of prep the challenges, the sacrifices, and the lessons learned along the way.
Kailyi opens up about what it was like stepping into a new chapter of her fitness journey, including the obstacles she faced and how she learned the importance of being flexible with her timeline. Prepping for a show isn’t always a straight path, but Kailyi’s determination and willingness to adapt made her incredibly successful throughout the process.
This episode highlights not only her physical transformation but also the teamwork and trust that went into making her stage debut possible. If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to go from lifestyle client to competitor, this conversation will give you an inside look at the mindset, strategy, and support required to make it happen.
✨ Connect with me:
📲 Instagram: @NicoleFerrierFitness
🌐 Website: www.nicoleferrierfitness.com
💪 Interested in lifestyle coaching or competition prep? Apply for coaching through my website or DM me on Instagram to learn more about how we can work together.
In this episode, I’m joined by Eric Roberts, an online health and fitness coach who’s known for his straightforward, no-fluff approach to fitness. Together, we break down how to simplify fat loss so you can stop overcomplicating the process and finally see results that stick.
We talk about the importance of building a strong mindset and how shifting your perspective can make fat loss feel less like a chore and more like an empowering journey. Eric also drops some of his most practical, no-BS fat loss strategies that cut through the confusion and help you focus on what actually matters.
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by conflicting advice, frustrated by slow progress, or unsure of what really works, this conversation will give you the tools and mindset shifts to stay consistent and achieve your goals without burning out.
📲 Connect with Eric:
Instagram: @EricRobertsFitness
📲 Connect with me:
Instagram: @NicoleFerrierFitness
Coaching: www.nicoleferrierfitness.com
In this episode, I sit down with Lexa Rukstela better known as @alexarukstela on Instagram to dive into one of the most overlooked yet crucial parts of competing: stage presentation. Whether you’re a first-time competitor or a seasoned athlete, the way you carry yourself on stage can make all the difference.
Lexa and I talk about what it really means to present with confidence, how posing is more than just hitting mandatory shots, and the little details that can set you apart from the competition. From mindset tips to body language, this conversation is packed with practical advice to help you feel polished, powerful, and proud when you step under those stage lights.
If you’ve ever struggled with posing nerves or want to refine your stage presence, you won’t want to miss this episode.
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Connect with Lexa:
Instagram: @alexarukstela
Connect with Nicole:
Instagram: @nicoleferrierfitness
Coaching & Inquiries: www.nicoleferrierfitness.com
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In this episode of Beyond the Bikini Radio, I sit down with my assistant coach Mary to chat about her decision to take the leap into the bodybuilding world. Mary opens up about the nerves that come with trying something new, but also the excitement she feels about stepping into this next chapter.
We dive into the realities of competing and break down what you should really consider before you ever step on stage—everything from mindset, time commitment, and lifestyle factors, to the importance of having a strong “why” behind your goals. Whether you’re thinking about competing or you’re just curious about the process, this conversation is filled with insights and encouragement for anyone considering the bodybuilding stage.
If you’re interested in coaching or want to learn more about working with me and my team, visit www.nicoleferrierfitness.com or connect with me on Instagram @NicoleFerrierFitness. You can also follow Mary’s journey on Instagram at @marykuettel_fitness.
In this episode of Beyond the Bikini Radio, I sit down with Hailey Sykes, an online health and fitness coach who specializes in pre and postpartum fitness. Hailey shares her expertise on navigating health and fitness goals while raising young children, and we dive into the realities of balancing motherhood with self-care.
We talk about the importance of boundary setting, finding realistic expectations during different seasons of life, and how to strengthen your partnership by becoming true teammates in the process. Whether you’re a new mom, expecting, or simply trying to juggle family life with your goals, this conversation is full of practical advice and encouragement.
Connect with Hailey on Instagram: @health_by_hailey
Stay connected with me on Instagram: @NicoleFerrierFitness
Apply for coaching and learn more at: www.nicoleferrierfitness.com
In this episode, I’m joined by Jennifer Fleming, owner of Beauty Aesthetics, to dive into the world of beauty treatments and how to make the most out of your service. We discuss what to look for in a great injector, how to get results that enhance your natural features, and the surprising health benefits of working with someone who truly understands both the artistry and medical expertise behind the craft. Whether you’re a seasoned client or curious about your first treatment, this conversation will give you the tools to approach beauty procedures with confidence and realistic expectations.
📲 Connect with Jennifer: @beauty_aesthetics_co
💻 Apply for Coaching: www.nicoleferrierfitness.com
📧 Email Me: nicole@nicoleferrierfitness.com
📸 Follow Me on Instagram: @NicoleFerrierFitness