The Macro Lounge Podcast

Are you a good athlete? Or are you... kind of being a dick? (this seems to be the theme this season!) In this episode, Chris and Rach break down what it actually means to be coachable and why your results are built in the choices you make when your coach ISN'T watching.They cover:Why reading your plan properly matters more than you think (yes, including page two)The difference between negotiating with your coach and just wishful thinkingWhy going silent when things go wrong is a bigger red flag than the screw-up itselfThe three pillars of being a great athlete: open-mindedness, adherence, and communicationWhy feedback is direction, not criticismHow consistency will always beat intensityPlus some very relatable stories about oat milk flat whites, supersets that apparently didn't exist, and athletes who think prep starts "suddenly."Whether you're deep in prep or just starting your season, this one's a must-listen.00:00 Intro01:21 Competition season is kicking off03:07 What coaching actually is (and isn't)04:13 Read your plan properly07:17 What people think coaching is vs what it actually is08:11 Negotiating with your coach10:59 Exercise in prep vs off-season12:26 Overthinking in prep14:18 Signs you might not be ready to prep18:13 Why athletes hide mistakes20:19 The oat milk flat white problem22:12 You can't blame your coach for your choices25:05 Being transparent with your coach26:28 Results aren't purchased, they're earned28:52 Why coaching matters more in bodybuilding30:37 No refund policy on effort33:42 Being open-minded is everything36:37 What separates good athletes from great ones39:28 Just admit it and move forward41:02 Feedback is not personal42:28 Seeking validation vs improvement44:42 Effort, communication, adherence45:01 Don't be a dick. Just be consistent.Like and subscribe on Spotify and YouTube - it helps more than you'd think.Find us here:🎧 Follow The Macro Lounge on Spotify📸 Instagram: @macro_lounge_podcast▶ YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@TheMacroLoungePodcast⁠📩 Email: ⁠[email protected]⁠Work with us:👙 Posing School: Accentuate Posing Academy ⁠https://www.instagram.com/accentuate_posing_academy/⁠💪 Coaching with Chris: Team Bold Physique ⁠https://www.instagram.com/teamboldphysique/⁠✨ Competition Bikinis with Rachel: Accentuate Bikinis ⁠https://www.instagram.com/accentuatebikinis/⁠

Don't Be A Dick Part 2: Relationships in Prep | Episode 13 Season 2Prep doesn't just change your body. It changes your mood, your patience, your availability and how easy you are to live with. This week Chris and Rachel dive into the side of contest prep nobody talks about enough: what it does to your relationships.From partners absorbing the emotional fallout to friendships shrinking, family not understanding why you're "doing this to yourself," and the legendary broccoli oil incident that almost ended a relationship... this one gets real.Whether you're prepping, supporting someone through prep, or just trying to understand what your bodybuilding friend disappeared into for 20 weeks, this episode is for you.Topics covered this week:🔹 Why prep changes your personality (and the biology behind it)🔹 The partner sacrifice: they didn't choose prep, they chose you🔹 How to handle "just one bite won't hurt"🔹 Scheduling connection time alongside cardio and training🔹 Red flags that prep is damaging your relationship🔹 When discipline crosses into selfishness🔹 Rachel's two unforgivable prep stories (oil in the broccoli and the burnt chicken saga)🔹 Building a prep survival checklist: before, during, and after🔹 Post-show blues and why recovery isn't instant🔹 Professional relationships and knowing when to talk to your coach about timingChapters:00:00 - Intro and setting the scene03:08 - The biology of prep brain: hormones, hunger and tolerance06:08 - Social battery drain and why bodybuilders befriend bodybuilders07:52 - Partners didn't choose prep, so communicate early11:09 - Navigating free meals and takeaways in the house12:38 - The partner sacrifice vs the athlete sacrifice16:14 - When does prep stop being the excuse?19:28 - Survival behaviours: communication, gratitude and scheduled time22:36 - When discipline becomes selfishness25:01 - "Just one bite won't hurt" and how to shut it down28:01 - Keeping friendships alive during prep30:46 - Prep is temporary, relationship damage can be permanent33:01 - Rachel's broccoli oil story (the one that almost ended it all)36:49 - The burnt chicken incident37:25 - During-prep survival checklist: gratitude, shared time and check-ins39:14 - Post-prep recovery: rebuilding bridges and post-show blues42:39 - It takes a village to build a champion44:07 - Professional relationships and work during prep46:48 - Don't microwave your fish (a public service announcement)50:33 - Your worst prep partner stories: send them in💬 Like and subscribe so other athletes can find us!📍 Find us here:🎧 Spotify: The Macro Lounge Podcast📸 Instagram: @macro_lounge_podcast📺 YouTube: @TheMacroLoungePodcast📩 Email: [email protected]💪 Work with us:✨ Posing: @accentuate_posing_academy🏋️ Coaching: @teamboldphysique👙 Bikinis: accentuatebikinis.co.nz | @accentuatebikinis

Let's be real. PEDs are one of the most talked about, most misunderstood, and most misrepresented topics in bodybuilding. So we decided to go there.In this episode, Chris and Rachel break down what performance-enhancing drugs actually are (spoiler: caffeine counts), the real health risks nobody wants to talk about, the difference between tested and untested federations, and why "just a little bit" is never really just a little bit.Here's what we get into:What actually counts as a PED (it's way more than steroids)The categories: anabolic steroids, peptides, fat loss compounds, and performance enhancersReal short-term and long-term health risks, including cardiovascular, hormonal, and fertility impactsFemale-specific risks that can't always be reversedWhy peptides are marketed as "safe" when many aren't even approved for human useSocial media distortion and the natty-or-not illusionEthics vs legality: why legal doesn't mean safeNatural vs untested federations and why neither path is morally superiorWhen (if ever) it makes sense to even consider PEDsChris's honest take on his own TRT journey and why transparency matters⚠️ DISCLAIMER: This episode is for education and awareness only. Nothing discussed constitutes medical or coaching advice. You are responsible for your own decisions, research, and health.Whether you're natural, enhanced, or just curious, the takeaway is simple: make informed decisions, know your risks, and don't be a dick about it.🎧 Like and subscribe so you never miss an episode!📲 Find us here:Instagram: @macro_lounge_podcastYouTube: @TheMacroLoungePodcast💼 Work with us:🩰 Posing coaching with Rachel: @accentuate_posing_academy💪 Contest prep and coaching with Chris: @teamboldphysique👙 Competition bikinis: @accentuate.bikinis📩 [email protected]

Dropping a sweet chilli bottle on your foot is one way to get out of Bulgarians. Not recommended. (We're talking to you Rachel) But it does make for a very relevant episode.This week on The Macro Lounge, Chris and Rachel get into what actually happens when injuries and illness hit during prep - and more importantly, why pushing through is almost always the wrong call.They break down the physiology of why prep makes you more susceptible to both, when to modify vs when to fully stop, the rule for training through illness, and why 3 days of rest is nowhere near the crisis your prep brain is telling you it is.They also give a big shout-out to Ed at Ascend Sports Rehab and Performance (you can find him here: @ascendsportsnz) - because having the right physio in your corner isn't a luxury, it's prep strategy.Plus: the Sharns segment, the APA Poser of the Year award announcement, ICN regional show sponsorship news, and Rachel's new crossover bikini range drop. Phew - its a corker! If you've ever trained through something you absolutely shouldn't have, this one's for you.Like and subscribe on Spotify and YouTube - it helps more than you'd think.Find us here:🎧 Follow The Macro Lounge on Spotify📸 Instagram: @macro_lounge_podcast▶ YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@TheMacroLoungePodcast⁠📩 Email: ⁠[email protected]⁠Work with us:👙 Posing School: Accentuate Posing Academy ⁠https://www.instagram.com/accentuate_posing_academy/⁠💪 Coaching with Chris: Team Bold Physique ⁠https://www.instagram.com/teamboldphysique/⁠✨ Competition Bikinis with Rachel: Accentuate Bikinis ⁠https://www.instagram.com/accentuatebikinis/

The word "sponsorship" gets thrown around constantly in the bodybuilding and fitness world, but most athletes have no idea what it actually means, what it costs, or what it demands in return.In this episode, Chris and Rachel pull back the curtain on how sponsorship in the NZ and Australian fitness space really works, and why most people approach it completely wrong.They break down:The real numbers at entry, mid, and elite athlete levelsThe difference between a sponsor and an affiliate (and why it matters)What brands are actually looking for before they say yesWhy authenticity is non-negotiable, and how businesses spot fakers fastHow to approach a brand the right way without leading with "give me free stuff"Why sponsorship is not a salary, not a reward, and not permanentPlus, Brooke's Follies aka Sharns are back with some of the most chaotic prep brain stories yet, and Chris finally shares a sponsorship story from his early 20s involving gold sparkly shorts, baby oil, and a very well-known gay bar. You really need to hear it.🎧 Follow The Macro Lounge on Spotify so you never miss an episode.WORK WITH US👙 Accentuate Bikinis: https://www.instagram.com/accentuatebikinis/🏆 Accentuate Posing Academy for posing coaching https://www.instagram.com/accentuate_posing_academy/💪 Team Bold Physique for coaching: www.boldphysique.com 📧 [email protected]📸 Instagram: @macro_lounge_podcast▶️ YouTube: @TheMacroLoungePodcast

Coffee's optional. Cardio wisdom isn't.This week Chris and Rach are breaking down one of the most common myths in bodybuilding and fitness - that doing MORE means getting BETTER results. Spoiler: it doesn't.They're getting into why recovery is just as important as training, why your first prep should be your hardest, and what it actually means to train with intent. Plus Rach drops a race car analogy that genuinely slaps, and there's a registration day disaster story involving wrong divisions, no shoes, no wallet, and a ProCut bikini that still somehow has a happy ending.This one's for every athlete who's woken up at 4am for cardio while running on three hours sleep and called it dedication. It's not. Go to bed.Topics covered:Metabolic adaptation and why starting too hard leaves you nowhere to goVolume training and junk volume (not the same thing)DOMS, fatigue, and why suffering isn't a progress metricHow to know when your prep is actually inefficientThe bullets in the gun analogy - only so many tools up your sleeveWhy the magic is made in the off season, not during prepSigns you're overtraining and what to do about itLike and subscribe on Spotify and YouTube - it helps more than you'd think.Find us here:🎧 Follow The Macro Lounge on Spotify📸 Instagram: @macro_lounge_podcast▶ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheMacroLoungePodcast📩 Email: [email protected] with us:👙 Posing School: Accentuate Posing Academy https://www.instagram.com/accentuate_posing_academy/💪 Coaching with Chris: Team Bold Physique https://www.instagram.com/teamboldphysique/✨ Competition Bikinis with Rachel: Accentuate Bikinis https://www.instagram.com/accentuatebikinis/

Chris and Rachel go deep on the Arnold Classic bikini, wellness, and fit model divisions - who deserved the win, who missed their peak, and what the lineup tells us about where these divisions are heading into Olympia season.Plus, Sharns are back! Helen Ruth Bailey Strong left her car in a multi-storey and then drove it into a wall two days out from show day (yes, there's video evidence). And Natalia's prep pumpkin almost took out her apartment while she was mid-Stairmaster vibing to Lady Gaga. Prep brain is real, people.If you've been following along, Episode 7 with Sully from the OCB apparently ruffled a few feathers - so if you haven't listened yet, go back and start there. New episodes every Monday at 5am - just in time for your cardio sessions at the start of the week! (you crazy animals) Like and follow so you never miss an episode!

He bumped into Arnold at 13. Walked into a seminar he had no business being at. Got given two free tickets to the Mr. Olympia. And the rest? Well, 160 competitions, three military branches, a police career, and one of the world's largest natural bodybuilding federations later, here we are.This week Chris and Rachel sit down with Sean "Sully" Sullivan, founder and co-owner of the OCB (Organisation of Competitive Bodybuilders), the largest natural bodybuilding federation in the United States and now spanning 13+ countries worldwide.This one ran long, and we left every second of it in.We cover:How Arnold personally sparked Sully's love of bodybuilding at age 13Three military branches, combat deployments, and becoming a Command Chief Master SergeantWhy the OCB was built as a culture before it was ever a federationHow judging should actually work and why most federations get it wrongAngular geometry in judging and why "first in the middle" ruins fair scoringOut-of-competition drug testing and what makes natural testing credibleWhy OCB competitors are encouraged to compete everywhere, including rival fedsWhat "festivals of muscle and feminine beauty" actually means in practiceThe OCB's expansion to 13+ countries and what's coming nextThis is a double episode. Season A competitors, that's two cardio sessions sorted. Season B, you're covered for the week.Connect with Sean here on InstagramFind us here:🎧 Follow The Macro Lounge on Spotify📸 Instagram: @macro_lounge_podcast▶ YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@TheMacroLoungePodcast⁠📩 Email: ⁠[email protected]⁠Work with us:👙 Posing School – Accentuate Posing Academy ⁠https://www.instagram.com/accentuate_posing_academy/⁠💪 Coaching with Chris – Team Bold Physique ⁠https://www.instagram.com/teamboldphysique/⁠✨ Competition Bikinis with Rachel – Accentuate Bikinis ⁠https://www.instagram.com/accentuatebikinis/⁠

This week Chris and Rachel are joined by Maria Reym, who shares her journey through competitive bodybuilding and the transition that comes after stepping away from the stage.Maria talks about the mindset shifts that happen over time, how priorities change, and the moment many athletes begin to ask themselves whether it’s time to stop competing.We also discuss her move into coaching and judging, and how athletes can remain connected to the sport even when their role evolves.In this episode we discuss:• Life after competing• Identity beyond the stage• Mindset shifts as priorities change• Recognising when it may be time to stop competing• Transitioning into coaching and judgingIt’s an honest conversation about the evolution many competitors eventually experience in their bodybuilding journey.You can follow Marias journey and contact her here: https://www.instagram.com/masha_mashow/Find us here:🎧 Follow The Macro Lounge on Spotify📸 Instagram: @macro_lounge_podcastYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheMacroLoungePodcast📩 Email: [email protected] with us👙 Posing School – Accentuate Posing Academyhttps://www.instagram.com/accentuate_posing_academy/💪 Coaching with Chris – Team Bold Physiquehttps://www.instagram.com/teamboldphysique/✨ Competition Bikinis – Accentuate Bikinishttps://www.instagram.com/accentuatebikinis/

Do genetics actually matter in bodybuilding?In this episode, we have an honest conversation about genetic potential, structure, muscle insertions, fat distribution, and why some physiques look more suited to certain divisions.We cover:• What good genetics really means• Bikini structure and proportions• Muscle insertions and stage shape• Genetics vs work ethic• Choosing the right division• Comparison traps on social media• Maximising your own potentialPlus another Sharn that reminds us competing is never as polished as Instagram makes it look.Genetics set the framework. Hard work determines how far you build it.If you’re serious about improving season to season, this conversation matters. New Episodes every Monday! Find us here:🎧 Follow The Macro Lounge on Spotify📸 Instagram: @macro_lounge_podcast▶ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheMacroLoungePodcast📩 Email: [email protected] with us:👙 Posing School – Accentuate Posing Academyhttps://www.instagram.com/accentuate_posing_academy/💪 Coaching with Chris – Team Bold Physiquehttps://www.instagram.com/teamboldphysique/✨ Competition Bikinis – Accentuate Bikinishttps://www.instagram.com/accentuatebikinis/

Everyone wants to improve. Not everyone wants to hear the truth.In this episode, we talk about feedback in bodybuilding and competition prep - how to receive it, who to listen to, and how not to let ego derail your progress.We cover:• Coach to athlete communication• Handling critique during prep• Why asking too many people for opinions backfires• Emotional maturity in competing• Feedback vs projection• Why growth requires discomfortPlus another Sharn that proves not everyone hears what they’re told.If you’re serious about improving your physique and stage presence, this episode is essential.Find us here:🎧 Follow The Macro Lounge on Spotify📸 Instagram: @macro_lounge_podcast▶ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheMacroLoungePodcast📩 Email: [email protected] with us:👙 Posing School – Accentuate Posing Academyhttps://www.instagram.com/accentuate_posing_academy/💪 Coaching with Chris – Team Bold Physiquehttps://www.instagram.com/teamboldphysique/✨ Competition Bikinis – Accentuate Bikinishttps://www.instagram.com/accentuatebikinis/

The off season is not a break. It’s where your next prep is decided.In this episode, Chris and Rachel unpack what the growth season really means for bikini, wellness, and bodybuilding competitors.We cover:• Why prep starts the minute you walk off stage• Reverse dieting and restoring health post show• How much weight gain is actually appropriate• Why staying too lean hurts progress• Building muscle properly with progressive overload• Growth season nutrition and protein targets• Why posing should start long before prep• The mental shift after stepping off stagePlus the debut of our new segment “Sharns” featuring one very dramatic two weeks out meltdown.If you’re serious about competing and improving your physique season to season, this is required listening.Find us here:🎧 Follow The Macro Lounge on Spotify📸 Instagram: @macro_lounge_podcast▶ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheMacroLoungePodcast📩 Email: [email protected] with us:👙 Posing School – Accentuate Posing Academyhttps://www.instagram.com/accentuate_posing_academy/💪 Coaching with Chris – Team Bold Physiquehttps://www.instagram.com/teamboldphysique/✨ Competition Bikinis – Accentuate Bikinishttps://www.instagram.com/accentuatebikinis/

Posing is not the fun extra you worry about at the end of prep.It is the skill that decides placings.In this episode of The Macro Lounge, Chris and Rachel break down posing from the athlete’s point of view, what actually matters on stage, what judges are really looking at, and why so many competitors sabotage themselves by overcomplicating it or leaving it too late.They cover why mandatories come first, always, how posing exposes weaknesses you have been hiding, and why confidence, control, and facial expression matter more than flashy transitions. Chris shares insight from his time judging, including how comparisons are decided and why routines are often the first thing cut at busy shows.Rachel talks openly about stage presence, confidence under pressure, common posing mistakes, and why copying pros or Instagram poses often works against you. Together they unpack why posing must be tailored to your body, your structure, and your personality, not your coach’s or someone else’s highlight reel.This episode also introduces Accentuate Posing Academy and the upcoming in person workshops across New Zealand, designed for all federations, all levels, and both women and men. The focus is simple, pose for your physique, not trends.Accentuate Posing Academy workshop dates:Auckland, 2 May 2026Book here: https://tinyurl.com/Auckland-WorkshopChristchurch, 18 July 2026Book here: https://tinyurl.com/Christchurch-WorkshopTauranga, 29 August 2026Book here: https://tinyurl.com/Tauranga-WorkshopWellington, 5 September 2026Book here: https://tinyurl.com/Wellington-WorkshopYou can also follow Accentuate Posing Academy on Instagram for updates, education, and behind the scenes content:@accentuate_posing_academyIf you are competing this season, or even thinking about stepping on stage, this episode will change how you approach posing.If you want the coaching and educator perspective to pair with this episode, go back to Season 1 Episodes 21 and 25 with posing experts Becc Gwilliam and Allie Waddell.Find us here:🎧 Follow The Macro Lounge on Spotify📸 Instagram: @macro_lounge_podcastYouTube: 📩 Email: [email protected]

Season 2 of The Macro Lounge Podcast is officially live! In this first episode of Season 2, Chris and Rachel are back behind the mics after a busy off-season and break down everything currently happening in the bodybuilding world, from Fit Model shake-ups to Olympia qualification changes and what they really mean for athletes.In this episode we discuss:• Season 2 direction and how the podcast is evolving• IFBB Fit Model division controversy and where the pro look may land• Bikini pros switching divisions and the ripple effect on standards• Olympia qualification changes and why international athletes are feeling the squeeze• Arnold Classic preview and standout athletes to watch• New Zealand and Australia competition calendars for 2026• Honest advice athletes wish they received before competingThis episode is part catch-up, part industry breakdown, part waffle and part reality check. If you compete, coach, or follow bodybuilding seriously, Season 2 starts right here.👇 Tell us in the comments what you are most excited about for the upcoming season.Find us here:🎧 Follow The Macro Lounge on Spotify📸 Instagram: @macro_lounge_podcastYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheMacroLoungePodcast📩 Email: ⁠[email protected]

Season One of the Macro Lounge is officially wrapped, and what a ride it has been. Twenty six episodes, countless sparkles, a few near cancellations, and a community that grew faster than Chris adds carbs in a reverse.In this final episode of the season, Chris and Rachel look back on the highs, the lessons, the chaos, and the moments that shaped 2025. From insane prep stories and athlete breakthroughs to behind the scenes insights from the bikini business and guests who brought serious knowledge and hilarious honesty, this show has become something far bigger than we expected.A huge thank you to every listener who tuned in, shared the episodes, sent messages, laughed with us, cried with us, and gave us the courage to keep showing up imperfectly but consistently. You built this community with us.A special shout out to Valerie, Mrs B - producer, editor, thumbnail queen and the very patient third member of this podcast. Without Valerie, there would be no polished episodes, no Canva magic, no crisp audio and probably no YouTube at all. She keeps the chaos in line and the podcast alive.Season Two lands late January or early February. Bigger topics, more guests, more honesty, more sparkles.Thank you for making Season One unforgettable.See you in 2026!!!🎧 Follow the Macro Lounge on Spotify📸 Instagram macro_lounge_podcastPLEASE leave us a rating or review. It really does help! See you next year!

From PNBA World Champion to IFBB Pro League judge to founder of the Australian Posing School, Becc Gwilliam has shaped the posing game across Australia and beyond.In Episode 25, she joins Chris and Rachel for a deep dive into bodybuilding, posing, judging and how APS became the global standard for stage presentation.Becc shares how she went from investigative journalist to international posing coach, how APS grew from a solo idea into a worldwide team, and why posing remains the most underestimated part of competing. She also opens up about athlete transformation stories, backstage emotions, judging insights and the trends she hopes will disappear forever! Expect wisdom, sass, storytelling and a lot of laugh out loud moments.Find Becc here:📱 Instagram: @becctheposer🏫 Australian Posing School: https://www.australianposingschool.com.au/📸 APS Instagram: @australianposingschoolFind us here:🎧 Follow The Macro Lounge on Spotify📸 Instagram: @macro_lounge_podcast📩 Email: [email protected]

Dr Susan Baxter, PhD in movement science, award winning educator, former bikini competitor, global presenter and founder of the AHA Method, joins Chris and Rachel for a deep dive into the worlds of bodybuilding, coaching, business systems and longevity.In this episode we cover:👉 Susan’s wild origin story from Highlanders TV host to national stage winner👉 How competing shaped her discipline, resilience and academic career👉 Why so many PTs struggle with skill set and structure👉 The rise of wellness and recovery and what gyms are getting wrong👉 Identity loss after competing and how to transition without blowing up your life👉 How bodybuilding systems can improve every part of your worldSusan also shares her best gym horror stories, her favourite movement pattern, and why she once ended up on a newspaper cover in a bikini she regretted immediately.🎧 Subscribe for new episodes every Saturday📸 Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/macro_lounge_podcast/If you want to get in touch with Dr Susan Baxter PHD - find her links below! She'd love to hear from you. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drsuzbaxter/Website: https://www.drsuzsquad.com/

This week, Chris and Rachel sit down with Cam - founder of UglyFace - the brutally honest supplement brand shaking up the industry with zero sugarcoating (and maybe a few paper bags).From dodgy fat burners and “detox teas” to collagen hype and influencer fakery, nothing’s off-limits in this caffeine-fuelled deep dive into the realities of the supplement world.💥 What you’ll hear:The origins of UglyFace (spoiler: caffeine + chaos)The worst supplement scams still sellingWhy collagen protein is basically uselessWhat brands get wrong about transparencyInfluencer horror stories and shady formulasHow small NZ brands can do it betterIf you’ve ever felt lost reading a supplement label, this one’s your crash course in spotting the red flags.Big thanks to Cam for his honesty on the subject and for giving up his valuable time to chat with us! 🎙️ New episodes every Saturday at 8am. 📸 Instagram: @macro_lounge_podcast📩 Email: [email protected]

You’ve nailed show day - now what? The hard part isn’t the prep, it’s the after.This week, Chris and Rachel dive deep into reverse dieting – or as they call it, the recovery phase. They unpack what actually happens when the tan fades and hunger hits, and why this stage can make or break your next season.💬 What you’ll hear:👉 Why “reverse dieting” isn’t magic – and what the science really says👉 How fast to raise your calories without wrecking your headspace👉 When to chill vs when to push for recovery goals👉 How to handle body image shifts and post-show binges👉 Why blood work and hormone health belong in every athlete’s planIf you’re feeling lost, tired, or just “off” after comp season, this one’s your lifeline back to balance.🎧 New episodes drop every Saturday📸 Instagram: @macro_lounge_podcast📩 Email: [email protected] you are looking to get blood work done, Chris mentions Strom Sports in this podcast - you can find all the information on their website, here: https://stromsports.co.nz/pages/strom-athlete-blood-testing-nz

Drum roll please - our very first guest episode and who better than Allie Waddell to make her debut on The Macro Lounge stage? 👑Allie is the founder of Spotlight Society, creator of the Stage Fairies, and one of the industry’s most sought-after posing coaches and stage glam experts. Based between Arizona and Vancouver, she helps athletes around the world master posing, mindset, and the sparkle factor that separates good from unforgettable.In this episode, Allie joins Chris and Rachel to talk about:✨ Turning nerves into confidence through mindset work💃 Why posing is psychology and artistry🧠 How NLP and mental awareness change your stage presence👙 Building your “stage identity” vs copying your coach💄 The biggest glam and posing mistakes competitors make (yes, we’re looking at you, matchy-matchy eyeshadow!)🥇 What it really takes to stand out - without losing your authenticityThis one’s packed with golden advice for bikini, wellness, and figure athletes - or anyone who wants to bring more confidence to the stage and life beyond it.A huge thank you to Allie Waddell for joining us as our first-ever guest - absolute queen energy. 🙌If you want to work with Allie or learn more about Spotlight Society, check out:🔗 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alliewaddell/🌐 Linktree for Allie 🎧 Subscribe for new episodes every Saturday!📸 Instagram: @macro_lounge_podcast📩 Email: [email protected]

The final wrap-up of 2025 is here - and what a finish it was!This week, Chris and Rachel dive into the ICN Oceania Championships in Christchurch and the NZIFBB Tournament of Champions in Palmerston North, wrapping up an epic season of sparkles, tiaras, and some seriously stacked lineups.Inside this episode:✨ Rachel’s Pro debut (and win!) at ICN Oceania🥇 Who earned new Pro Cards - Brooke, Taylor, Nicole, Maki, and more🎭 Why dress design and posing can make or break Runway🤔 Judging trends, show formats, and a few controversies along the way🏋️‍♀️ TOC highlights — Jamie vs Kate, pros bringing the heat🍳 Post-show mindset & smart reverse dieting tips😂 Behind the scenes — colour-matching suits, jewellery fails & “Team Dapper”It’s our last comp recap of the year - and a huge celebration of everyone who stepped on stage this season.🎧 New episodes every Saturday at 8AM (NZT)📸 Instagram: @macro_lounge_podcast📩 Email: [email protected]

From Naturals to Nationals — we’re breaking down everything.Chris was ringside, notebook in hand (and spelling names phonetically as always 🤭), while Rachel was in full sparkle analysis mode.We cover:✨ The new IFBB Pro Card winners — including Corrie, Chantal, Louise, Sian, Carolyn and Tayla. 👙 Trends in judging and conditioning — bigger delts, fuller looks, red bikinis everywhere.🏆 What’s next heading into the TOC and Moe’s Muscle Pro Shows.🎧 Listen now 📸 Instagram: @macro_lounge_podcast📩 Email: [email protected]

Taupō delivered! Rachel walked away from ICN 2025 Nationals with three overalls and two pro cards (hello, double pro). We break down bikini, wellness, figure, runway, and swimsuit, what judges rewarded, and how stage presentation & posing tipped decisions - including Chris literally shouting posing instructions from the audience .What’s inside:ICN Nationals 2025 recap: division-by-division highlights & honest judging takeawaysBikini criteria now: balance, glute projection, soft but athletic conditioningRunway & Swimsuit: why dress choice, cut, and walk mechanics matterWellness vs Bikini: conditioning, glute tie-ins, and stage flowPrep reality: peaking for Nationals, maintaining condition, and backstage strategyRachel’s wins: strategy, posing cues, and that iconic purple bikiniPerfect for NZ natural bodybuilding athletes and coaches looking to understand ICN judging trends and how to present between callouts.🔔 New episodes every Saturday. Follow & rate to help other athletes find the show.📸 Instagram: @macro_lounge_podcast📩 Email: [email protected]

The 2025 Olympia results are in - and we’ve got thoughts. Chris and Rachel break down the big shifts in judging trends, why bikini went softer this year, and what it means for athletes heading into 2026. Expect honest takes, sparkly suit talk, and the usual dose of chaos.Oh - and yes, Producer Bubsickle aka Chris's wife Valerie really did save Chris’s life this week (literally). Ice cream was involved. 🍦Listen now and don’t forget to hit Follow or leave a comment so you never miss an episode.Email us here: [email protected] us on Insta here: https://www.instagram.com/macro_lounge_podcast/

So you’ve smashed (or survived) your regional bodybuilding show… now what?In this episode of The Macro Lounge Podcast, Chris and Rachel dive into the critical weeks between regionals and nationals where small tweaks can make or break your stage look.We cover:👉 How to assess whether you’re ready for nationals👉 The “1% fixes” that add up fast (posing, tan, presentation, mindset)👉 Why you shouldn’t reinvent the wheel after regionals👉 How to handle nerves, comparison, and post-show blues👉 Travel tips, backstage hacks, and avoiding peak-week chaosWhether you’re chasing a national title, a pro card, or just want to bring your best package yet — this episode gives you the reality check and game plan you need.📩 Got questions or episode ideas? Email us: [email protected]📱 Follow us on Instagram: @macro_lounge_podcast

Blue skies, closed tunnels, and a whole lot of sparkles. Chris flew solo on the ground while prep-brained Rachel brought the glitter. We break down the Wellington double-headliner: the NZIFBB Joe Ulberg Classic Natural and the Open Regional in Wellington 2025. In this episode:Figure highlights: smart class choices and where conditioning edged sizeWellness watch and who challenges at NationalsFit Model first impressions: cuts, coverage, and what judges actually rewardedBikini breakdown: juniors, true novice, masters, and the Open showdown (Er hello, Natalia 👀 Are we biased? HELL YES)Coaching/posing nuggets + what this means for Nationals🎧 New episodes every Saturday📸 Instagram: @macro_lounge_podcast📩 Email: [email protected]: We don’t receive promotional consideration, endorsement, or compensation from NZIFBB (or any federation). Opinions are our own.

Double the shows, double the sparkles. ✨In this week’s episode, Chris and Rachel break down the first IFBB shows of the season: the NZIFBB Auckland Open Regional Championships and the NZIFBB Auckland Natural Championships.From front-row judging insights to standout physiques, here’s what you’ll hear:Key differences between the Natural and Open lineupsConditioning trends the judges rewarded (and what they didn’t)Standout athletes across figure, wellness, bikini, and fit modelThe return of familiar faces (and mums making a strong comeback)Which athletes are already front-runners heading into NationalsIt’s the ultimate wrap-up to kick off the NZIFBB season.🎧 Subscribe for new episodes every Saturday!📸 Instagram: @macro_lounge_podcast📩 Email: [email protected] note: We don’t receive any endorsement, promotional consideration, or compensation from the NZIFBB (or any federation, for that matter). Everything we share here is purely our own opinions and observations from inside the sport.

From flight delays and midnight tanning in Christchurch, to runway gowns, posing critiques, and the stars of the show - this episode covers it all.Chris and Rachel share their unfiltered recap of the ICN South Island Classic, including:👉 Backstage drama (and why camping stretchers might be the new prep essential)👉 Rachel’s perspective competing in swimsuit, runway, and bikini👉 Which athletes stood out across figure, wellness, sports model, fitness, and bikini👉 The posing trends that worked and the ones that didn’t👉 Honest takes on judging, class sizes, and what Nationals could look likeIt’s equal parts competitor insight, coach perspective, and a little bit of chaos, just how we like it.🎧 Subscribe for new episodes every Saturday!📸 Instagram: @macro_lounge_podcast📩 Email: [email protected]

Motivation gets you started. Discipline keeps you going.In this week’s episode, Chris and Rachel pull back the curtain on one of the hardest parts of bodybuilding: staying consistent when the spark fades. From prep brain to comparison traps, kitten cuddles to cardio, they get real about:Why motivation is fleeting (even for pros)The systems and habits that keep athletes on trackWarning signs you’re burning out (and what to do about it)How to reconnect with your why when prep feels impossibleIf you’ve ever thought “just one missed session won’t matter” or felt guilty for snapping at your partner mid-prep… this one’s for you.🎧 Subscribe for new episodes every Saturday!📸 Instagram: @macro_lounge_podcast📩 Email: [email protected]

Prep isn’t just “dieting harder.” It’s the months-long process of getting ready for stage — physically, mentally, and emotionally. In this episode, Rachel and Chris break down everything first-timers (and even seasoned athletes) need to know about prep: timelines, readiness, common mistakes, and why sparkles won’t save you if you’re not conditioned.They also cover:How long prep really takes (hint: it’s not 12 weeks for most)Signs you’re ready — and not ready — to startThe mental grind of brain fog, cardio, and hangerHow to balance honesty with your coach and discipline with flexibilityWhether you’re about to start your first prep or just curious about what it involves, this is a no-BS walkthrough of what to expect when you sign up for the journey.🎧 Subscribe for new episodes every Saturday!📸 Instagram: @macro_lounge_podcast📩 Email: [email protected]

From world champions to first-timers, imposter syndrome doesn’t discriminate. In this episode, Chris (coach & former judge) and Rachel (world champ & sparkle queen) unpack the mental side of bodybuilding — the self-doubt, comparison, and those “I don’t belong here” thoughts every athlete knows too well.We cover:Why bodybuilding is the perfect breeding ground for imposter feelingsHow social media fuels the comparison trapThe three types of comparison (upward, lateral, downward) and which one actually helpsThe common signs of imposter syndrome (and how to spot them in yourself)Tools to reframe, refocus, and stop moving the goalpostsChris also gives a shoutout to Jess Stuart, whose books and courses on imposter syndrome are brilliant resources. You can check her work here: jessstuart.co.nz/imposter-syndrome📩 Got questions or a topic you want us to cover?Email us: [email protected]📱 Follow us on Instagram:Macro Lounge Podcast🎙️ New episodes every Saturday. Subscribe for your weekly hit of real talk, rhinestones, and raising the bar.

Stepping on stage for the first time? Or maybe you’ve competed before but still feel like backstage is total chaos? This episode is your ultimate show day walkthrough.Rachel and Chris cover everything from tanning disasters (yes, seatbelt streaks and green armpits are a thing) to what to wear, how athlete briefings actually work, what to pack backstage, and why pumping up too early will ruin your look.They also share tips on hair, makeup, toilet logistics (you’ll never look at a funnel the same way), and the little things that can make or break your stage presence.Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned athlete looking for fewer stress lines in your tan, this episode will get you show-day ready.Dont forget to share, like and subscribe so other people can find us!📩 Email us: [email protected]📱 Follow us on Instagram: @macro_lounge_podcast

Think competing is just about the sparkles and stage lights? Think again.In Episode 8 of The Macro Lounge, Rach and Chris break down the real cost of bodybuilding - from coaching and bikinis to flights, food, and the tan that can make or break your look. Warning: contains rhinestones, sass, and maybe a little post-show bakery shame.Chris even put together a free Competing Cost Budget Tool so you can work out exactly what you’ll be spending before you start prep. Download it here: www.boldphysique.com (Free Downloads section).Whether you’re planning your first show or eyeing up a full season, this is the episode that’ll save you from nasty surprises on your credit card bill.New episodes every Saturday - subscribe to us on Spotify so you never miss one. 📩 Email us: ⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠📱 Follow us on Instagram: ⁠⁠The Macro Lounge Podcast

We couldn’t wait until Saturday for this one! Join us for a full recap of the ICN Hawkes Bay Show on 2 August where we talk about everything from perfectly executed posing to show-stopping physiques that lit up the stage.We cover:Our standout athletes across figure, classic figure, swimsuit, sports model, wellness, fitness model, and bikiniWhich placings we agreed with… and the ones we didn’tStage presence vs. conditioning – and why both matterThe competitors to watch heading into NationalsAs always, it’s honest, a bit cheeky, and full of insight from two people who live and breathe this sport.Not affiliated or associated with ICN New Zealand. Just our take. 📩 Email us: ⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠📱 Follow us on Instagram: ⁠⁠The Macro Lounge Podcast

EPISODE 6: So You Want to Compete? Here's What You Need to Know FirstThinking about stepping on stage for the first time? This week we dive into the signs you're actually ready to compete - physically, financially, mentally and emotionally. From prep timelines to posing chaos, choosing the right federation, avoiding coach clashes, and embracing the suck (hello, Bulgarian split squats) - Rachel and Chris cover it all.This is your roadmap for what should happen before you commit to a comp. If you're asking, "Am I ready?", start here.New episodes every Saturday - follow us on Spotify so you never miss one. 📩 Email us: ⁠[email protected]⁠📱 Follow us on Instagram: ⁠The Macro Lounge Podcast

What actually makes a good coach? In this episode, we get stuck into the red flags, the green flags, and all the things athletes often don’t think to ask when choosing a coach. Chris shares insight from decades of experience in the industry, while Rachel breaks down how to actually be coachable – and why that matters.We talk about expectations, communication styles, hand-holding vs high performance, and why not every coach suits every athlete. Whether you're looking for a coach or are one, this episode’s worth a listen.📩 Email us: [email protected]📱 Follow us on Instagram: @macro_lounge_podcast

From colours and crystals to cuts and chaos – this episode is all things bikinis.Rachel shares everything you need to know when choosing a competition bikini: how to pick a colour that works for your skin tone and personality, what judges notice (and don’t), what cut flatters your glutes, and how to care for your suit once the show’s done - and we also learn that Chris is red/green colourblind. Helpful! Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned competitor, there’s plenty in here to help you avoid costly mistakes and show off your hard work the right way.Connect with us on Instagram: @macro_lounge_podcastEmail: [email protected]

Which bodybuilding federation is right for you? In this episode, Chris and Rachel break down the differences between federations in New Zealand, from IFBB and NPC to ICN, and what you need to know before stepping on stage.They chat about category differences, posing, progression pathways, and how to pick the federation that aligns with your goals and values – with plenty of laughs along the way.Plug in, get your cardio done and lets get started. Connect with us on Instagram: @macro_lounge_podcast Email us at: [email protected]

Thinking about stepping on stage? In this episode, we chat about why you should (or shouldn’t) compete, the realities of bodybuilding, and how to decide if the sport is right for you.Chris and Rachel share honest insights on categories, expectations, and why at the end of the day, all you can control is what eat and what you lift up and what you put down! ⚠️ TW: This episode touches on eating disorders.Connect with us on Instagram: ⁠⁠The Macro Lounge Podcast⁠⁠Email us at: [email protected]

In this first full episode of The Macro Lounge Podcast, Rachel and Chris introduce themselves, their journeys into bodybuilding and bikini competing, and how they ended up starting a podcast that will probably never stick to the plan (sorry, Producer Bubsickle).They chat about Rachel’s journey from competitive swimmer to world champion bikini competitor and bikini designer, and Chris’s decades-long involvement in bodybuilding as a competitor, judge, and coach. Expect honest takes, a few side tangents, and plenty of laughs as they set the stage for what’s to come on The Macro Lounge.Next episode, they’ll dive into why you should (or shouldn’t) compete and what the reality of bodybuilding really looks like.Plug in, get your cardio done, and let’s get started.Connect with us on Instagram: ⁠⁠The Macro Lounge Podcast⁠⁠ Email us at: [email protected]

In this short intro, your hosts Rachel (Accentuate Bikinis) and Chris (Team Bold Physique) give you a taste of what The Macro Lounge is all about – unfiltered chats about bodybuilding and bikini competition life in New Zealand, Australia, and beyond.Expect expert advice, questionable jokes, a few sparkles, and zero adherence to the plan. Whether you're deep in prep or just curious about the sport, this is your new favourite cardio companion.Plug in and let’s get into it.Connect with us on Instagram: The Macro Lounge Podcast Email us at: [email protected]