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MOSTMAGAZINEQ: WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO START YOUR FITNESS AND WELLNESS JOURNEY, AND HOW HAS IT EVOLVED OVER THE YEARS?A: I have always loved fitness! I remember doing workout tapes with my sister in the basement while growing up in the %u201980s. I was an athlete in high school, lettering in varsity field hockey and softball. The first time I saw Cory Everson on the TV show BodyShaping, I knew I wanted a muscular physique. As an adult, I became a yoga and group fitness instructor, which eventually led me to discover the sport of bodybuilding. Strength training has been truly life-changing%u2014it not only builds physical strength but also translates into mental resilience and emotional fortitude. Q: AS AN IPL PRO SWIMSUIT MODEL AT 53, WHAT MESSAGE DO YOU HOPE TO SEND TO WOMEN IN MIDLIFE THROUGH YOUR JOURNEY?A: Honestly, I rarely think about my age. I am always learning something new and setting new goals for myself! I strongly encourage women of any age to stay open to learning and unafraid to try something different. With age comes greater confidence and a deeper understanding of who we are. Embrace your authenticity and go after your goals! Q: HOW DO YOGA, PLANT-BASED NUTRITION, AND BREATHWORK INFLUENCE YOUR APPROACH TO STRENGTH TRAINING AND BODYBUILDING?A: Yoga, plant-based nutrition, and breathwork bring a real sense of calm to my life. I have been an animal lover since childhood, and following a plant-based diet allows me to fuel my body while practicing ahimsa (non-harm). Yoga and breathwork are incredibly empowering%u2014they remind us that everything we need to create positive change within our bodies already exists inside us. Breathwork can both calm and invigorate, while movement helps us develop agility, flexibility, and body awareness. These practices enhance my bodybuilding by improving mobility, range of motion, and mind-muscle connection, all while accelerating recovery.Q: WHAT ARE SOME OF THE BIGGEST MISCONCEPTIONS WOMEN HAVE ABOUT FITNESS AS THEY AGE?A: One major misconception is that it%u2019s too late to start or that aging inevitably leads to weakness or poor health. Many women feel discouraged by midlife weight gain, hormonal changes, low energy, or decreased strength. But the truth is%u2014it%u2019s never too late to begin a health and wellness journey! Strength training, in particular, is essential; it%u2019s the key to longevity.I believe in lifelong learning and growth, and that mindset extends to fitness as well. Working alongside midlife health expert Coach Linda Stephens has taught me so much, reinforcing the importance of staying strong, active, and empowered at any age. Q: WHAT ARE THE KEY PILLARS OF YOUR COACHING APPROACH FOR WOMEN LOOKING TO TRANSFORM THEIR BODIES AND MINDS?A: My coaching approach is holistic%u2014I focus on the mind, body, and spirit because they are all interconnected. You cannot transform one without addressing the others. My tools include mindset exercises, breathwork, yoga, strength training, meditation, and movement. I have always seen the best in people, and it is a blessing to help them see the best in themselves. Q: HOW DO YOU HELP WOMEN STAY MOTI- VATED AND CONSISTENT, ESPECIALLY THOSE WHO ARE JUST STARTING THEIR FITNESS JOURNEY LATER IN LIFE?A: Consistency is tied to accountability. I help my clients break their goals into manageable steps. For example, they might have an hourly goal (such as drinking a set amount of water) or a long-term goal (such as learning a new hobby that brings them joy). I also encourage the use of vision boards to keep their goals in sight and journaling prompts to track progress. These tools not only foster consistency but also help clients take ownership of their dreams. Q: WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO STEP INTO NATURAL BODYBUILDING PROMOTION, AND WHAT CAN WE EXPECT FROM YOUR FIRST SHOW IN MARCH? A: I took my own advice and tried something new! Promoting a bodybuilding show in the sport I love is both a challenge and a perfect fit for me. I absolutely love the International Physique League (IPL) and its emphasis on showcasing natural, healthy, and fit athletes. The IPL celebrates each competitor%u2019s unique and authentic vibe, which aligns perfectly with my philosophy. My goal is to create an athlete-centered event that is both special and fun. Stepping into this new role is incredibly exciting!54 MOST MAGAZINE - ISSUE 77