038: A Conversation with Mia Blackburn, Make it Happen or Make Excuses

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of PROCAST BY JOSH, I sit down with Mia, a Pro Bikini competitor, ICN QLD judge, single mum, and someone whose story has so much more depth than what you see on stage.Mia has achieved incredible success as a competitor, earning three pro cards across her journey. But this conversation is not just about titles, placings, or the final physique. It is about everything behind it.We talk through Mia’s journey into health and fitness, from first getting into cardio without really knowing what she was doing, to eventually finding bodybuilding and learning how much structure, guidance, effort and patience the sport truly requires.Mia also opens up about being diagnosed with bipolar, becoming a mum while still in high school, and the role her family, especially her mum, has played in helping her through some of the most challenging parts of her life.A major theme throughout this episode is the idea that success is not about simply “getting there.” As Mia shares, it is a journey, and every season brings new lessons. Even after competing multiple times, she talks about learning the hard way that each preparation requires the same level of effort, focus and respect for the process.We also discuss what it felt like receiving her pro card, dealing with imposter syndrome, and the realisation that becoming a pro is not the finish line. In many ways, it is the start of another level.Key topics include • Mia’s journey into training, cardio and eventually bodybuilding • being a single mum and becoming a parent while still in high school • living with bipolar and how it has shaped her life and mindset • the importance of family support, especially the role of her mum • competing across multiple seasons and earning three pro cards • the value of having the same coach across multiple preps • learning to compare yourself only to yourself • managing the mental side of competing and stepping up as a pro • miscarriage, post competition challenges and the importance of support • why reverse dieting is such an important part of prep • chasing the next goal, including Mia’s pursuit of an IFBB Pro card • making it happen instead of making excusesAt the core of this episode is a powerful reminder that life will always bring challenges, but we still have a choice in how we respond.Mia’s story shows the importance of resilience, personal responsibility, support, and continuing to find a way forward even when things feel difficult. As she shares in the episode, if something is not feeling right, or you feel like you are failing, do not give up. Try something slightly different, and you may find the path that works for you.To follow Mia’s journey and see what she is working towards next, you can connect with her on Instagram here @mia_bikiniproIf you are interested in coaching with PRO YOU, or you would like help with your own training, nutrition, mindset and physique goals, you can connect with me on Instagram here @josh_thefitnessproIf this episode resonated with you, please share it with someone in your circle who might need this message right now. And if you are enjoying PROCAST BY JOSH, a quick rating or review on Spotify and Apple Podcasts goes a long way in helping us reach more people and continue building a community of people committed to becoming PRO in their own world.Support the show