Hello everyone and thank you so much for joining us today on Bikinis After Babies.
I am so excited to bring you this episode, but of course first I am your host Mandy
Rashaun here with your other beautiful blonde host.
Hi everybody, this is Jillian Hughes.
I'm so excited for today's episode.
I have just been counting down the minutes all week.
As you can see, if you're watching us, you can see we have a beautiful, amazing guest
with us today.
And for those of us listening at home, I would like to welcome Angela Angelica
Teixeira.
And today we are just so excited to have her on.
She's a true legend.
This is like literally a dream to have her on today.
Angelica has been competing for 11 years and she is a two time Miss Bikini Olympia
and four time Miss Bikini International.
Angelica took a break from competing after the 2020 Olympia to start her family
welcoming daughters, Alyssa and Isla in 2021 and 2022 or 23, sorry.
Angelica returned to the IFBB Pro Bikini stage at the Arnold Classic this year.
wowed the judges and fans with her incredible physique and presentation.
Just an amazing physique, just a year shy of when her daughter was born.
We are beyond excited to have her on the show today to share all of her wisdom and
experience with our audience.
Welcome to Bikinis After Babies, Angelica Teixeira.
Thank you.
Thank you so much for having me.
I'm so excited to share this experience being a mom and competing.
And just so happy to be here and to be talking to everyone and all the moms out
there.
Yes, yes.
I would be surprised if anyone didn't know who you were, but for somebody who's just
tuning in and knew, can you share with us a little bit about how you got started
competing?
Yeah, so in 2013, I was a weight fitness instructor and a personal trainer.
And I just with Instagram, I start to see like, you know, like people competing and
all the amazing physics and like, you know what, I'm almost there.
I think I can do this.
And I wanted to really know the secret because everyone thinks it's a secret, you
know, behind it.
I'm like, I need to know that secret so I can help my clients, you know, like to get
in, in a even battle shape and if in myself too, but I just want to.
do one competition just to learn and that's it because I always loved food too
much.
Like, you know, like I'm like diet is not for me, but I'm going to do just this one
time.
And then that's, that's how I got into it.
I did figure.
I chose, you know, like I, I didn't choose my coat at that time chose figure for me,
but I was never figure competitor.
First time I went on stage, I was like, I tried to flex my legs and I didn't have
the legs.
and looking at the other girls and like, my God, this is so much bigger than me.
But I did my first competition was figure.
And then that was in 2013.
And then I did my second figure.
My first one, I placed it like last place.
And I was like, OK.
And everyone was like, I think you're going to win if you compete because you
know, like all my clients, all my friends are like you.
you are already in a great shape, you're gonna win, you're gonna win, and I put
that in my mind.
Like, okay, okay, I'm gonna win, and then I got the last place.
And I was like, huh, okay, so you know what, I'm not gonna do just one.
Now I want to get in the top five.
I wanna get in that picture.
And then I did my second competition as a figure, and I placed, I think it was
third.
And I was like, okay, so now I want to win first place.
And that's when, on my third show,
I discovered bikini because back then we had just a few videos.
We didn't have like so many videos like today.
Like to just step on Google and or YouTube and watch, you know, like all the polls in
and learn about everything about bikini.
You guys know how it was back then, right?
So that's when I start to see videos and then I saw Natalia Mello, you know, she
was Miss Olympia at that time.
And then Ashley Kowatzer, you know, and Ninja Paulina.
I'm like, you know what?
This is what I want to do, like, you know, like have all the sass and be able to show
my personality on stage more.
And even though I loved figure and I loved the shape and everything, I was like, you
know what, let me cross over, let me do both.
Let me see how I feel.
And then I did bikini without not even practicing the posing a lot.
I just went with the flow and what I felt.
And I was like, you know what, this is what I'm supposed to be doing since day
one.
Like I love it.
And after that, I was hooked.
I was like...
Well, the plan of just learning the process and doing just one show is gone.
Now I want to really do this.
And that's when I start taking series and start like, you know, the cast for my pro
card.
Mm -hmm.
That's great you didn't let that like that's that last place to feed you either
You know like you expect it to get first you didn't get first you got last and
you're like no We're gonna we're gonna we're gonna go at this.
That's cool.
You had that fire
I'm actually thankful that I got the last place otherwise I would have done just
that one show.
You know, because this is actually how I am.
I think, you know, like my goal was just to learn the process, win the show and
then help my clients, help me, you know, and that's it.
Maybe if I won, I would have you, you know what?
Yes, everything went well.
I got what I wanted, you know, so now I know how to.
Well, there's really no secret.
It's just a more strict diet, right?
But I was like, you know what?
Now I know there's not really a secret, but I, you know, you kind of learn, you
know, like being more strict with your clients also so they can get in the better
shape.
I'm like, now I can help them, you know, like achieve even better physique.
Maybe I would have done just that one show, but no, like that, you know, that
put a fire on me to keep going.
yeah, okay.
I didn't do well.
Okay.
Let me do one more.
So I'm actually grateful.
Yeah.
I think that's such a great mindset.
And I think that's probably one of the keys to success is, you know, just seeing
the sort of the beauty in an adversity and your whole journey has not been without
obstacles.
I mean, just your even quest for a pro card was very challenging.
Having to do multiple shows in order to obtain that title.
Can you kind of talk just a little bit about that for our audience who doesn't
know what that was like back in was it 2014 and 15 when you were trying to get
your pro card?
yeah, I got my ProCard in 2015, but I start like 2014 was the year that I really
just covered like end of 2013 that I won shows and then I thought I was qualified
for nationals, but I just had the green card at that time.
I wasn't an American citizen and I was living here in US with a green card and I
was like, okay, I have a green card.
So now I got qualified for nationals.
That was the last show of the year.
the USAs and then Miami Nationals was, yeah, I think was that show and I was
like, okay, I'm gonna go to Florida, compete, try to get my pro card.
And I almost bought the ticket and set up the hotel and everything.
And then I was like, okay, let me read the rules, right?
So I went on the website and then I saw needs to be an American citizen.
And I'm like, hold on.
I'm not an American citizen, I'm on my way there, but I'm not there yet.
I just have a green card, so I'm not an American citizen.
And then that's when I found out I could not compete at nationals.
I'm like, so if I cannot do nationals, I'm gonna get my Pro Card.
So that's when I contacted the MPC, President Jimenio, and I asked them and
they said, there is some people that was awarded a Pro Card, like, to the country.
So if you win several overalls, you know, like championships, you're gonna...
maybe they can award you a pro card and you're gonna be representing your country,
not US.
And I'm like, well, that is the only way.
Yes, that's the only way right now.
There's no national shows that you can do.
And I'm like, okay, so that's what I'm gonna do.
So in 2014, I start the quest for my pro card and trying to win as many overalls as
I could.
And by the end of the year, I won, so I think I won in 2014, four, no, I won five
overalls.
But one they didn't count.
Yeah, so one they were like, okay, all these overalls are great, but you know
what?
Like this one that you won in Brooklyn, that was the Brooklyn Grand Prix, like
we're not gonna count this one.
I think it was because it was the first year that they had the show.
And I was like, great.
And they're like, you know what?
We need one more.
And I'm like, okay, so that was already the end of the season.
I'm like, okay, next year I'll go for one more.
And then I...
like first show of the season I was still living in New York and was the biggest in
New York is then NEPC Metropolitan and then I prepped and I won the overall I'm
like yay and I was like you know what next week is the New Jersey show I'm gonna do
that one as well and then I got one more overall so there was there was six
overalls total so yeah six overalls total and then they I sent a letter and they
said
Okay, so now that you have all the overalls, this Brazil, right?
But I kept contact with the NPC, always putting them on the email so they can
follow everything.
I'm like, okay, so now I have six overalls.
What can I do?
Like, you need to come to Brazil and compete here so we can give you your pro
card because we need you to at least compete once here in Brazil.
So, you know, we can tell that you're representing Brazil.
And then they invited me for the Arnold Classic in Brazil.
And they were like, you don't even need to win.
We just need you to come and compete here.
But I thought they thought that I can go because I wasn't an American citizen.
I think they thought, you know what, if she's not an American, she can't leave US.
She needs to stay there.
So when she say that she can't come, we say that we deny her pro card.
But I said, OK, I can.
I have a green card.
I can travel.
And then I went and I got third place.
And then they say that I didn't need to win.
You know, and I did great because there was a
such a crazy lineup in Brazil for the Arnold Brazil.
And then I came back and I'm like, okay, I'm not gonna say nobody said anything
about my pro card.
So what's going on?
So I waited two weeks and nobody said anything.
And then I messaged, I mailed the Brazilian Federation and I'm like, okay,
it was great to compete in Brazil.
It wasn't because they treat me really bad in Brazil to be honest, you know, but I
said, okay, it was great because they never liked it because now.
It's pleaded.
It's not the AFPB elite anymore in Brazil.
But before was just one federation and in Brazil was terrible.
It was, you know, like super complicated.
It was super hard to get a pro card.
There was a lot of politics, things on behind the scenes, you know.
So it was, it was super tough.
And, you know, so today's different because the NEPC worldwide is there.
So it's another situation.
But the way they treated me, because they said, you would
You're with the NEPC, right?
No, we don't do NEPC here.
This is just so they treat me really, really bad in Brazil because I was
competing with the NEPC.
And that was a dream to compete in Brazil.
And I was like, wow.
I'm like, I never was treated so bad, you know, like in my whole career.
And I was like, okay, I just want to get this done.
Let's keep going.
As long as I get my ProCard, it's okay.
So I'm like, okay, it was awesome competing in Brazil.
So now that I placed third place and you say that I didn't need to win, just
compete there, so what's the next step for my pro card?
They're like, we actually had a meeting and because we found out that you can come
and go, so I think we should start all over and do everything like all the other
people in Brazil that represent in Brazil do.
So you have to do the local show and then the national show and then the states and
then the national.
And then if you win the national, you're going to qualify for the world.
So for Arnold, and if you win the overall there, that's when you're going to get
your pro card.
I'm like, after 20 competitions trying to get all the overalls.
Yes.
So you say to remember, right?
So it was like, it was crazy.
And I was putting everything on social media.
Instagram was really small.
It wasn't that big at that time.
But I...
because everyone that compete, I think everyone kind of like follow each other
back then, right?
So I had friends all over, they also competed and everyone was kind of like
following, you know, like this quest for like two years and then they denied and
I'm like, okay, I tried everything and you know, so now it's not on my hands anymore.
There's nothing else I can do.
But then I email, I kind of like translated everything and sent to
President Emmanuel and they kind of like, okay.
Don't worry, I'll take care of this.
And I'm like, what he's gonna do?
I'm like, I don't know, maybe they're gonna talk to Brazil and you know, and
then I was just like two weeks, the longest two weeks of my life.
I'm like, you know what?
I don't think it's gonna work.
I'm not gonna get my pro card.
I better try, but at that time I was already so in love and kind of like I had
a voice in my mind and people coming to me like, but why are you doing this?
Like, like why are you doing this?
You're just spending money.
You have no sponsors.
Like.
Like it's so hard for you to get your pro card.
Why you keep going?
And I'm like, I had that voice like, hey, you have to keep going.
I know you're gonna be, you know, like great doing this.
So keep going, you know?
And I was paying for all my competitions.
Of course I had no sponsors.
And I was like, no, I'll keep going until they say it.
Well, now you can't, right?
So I was already kinda like, hmm, I think I have to start, you know, like thinking
about something else that I wanna do with my life because.
I thought this was gonna be my career.
And then I was kind of just hopeless.
And then I received a letter in the mail with my pro card.
And then I'm like, what?
I'm like, what is this?
Yes, I'm like, what is that?
It was the best day of my life back then.
I'm like, I can't believe.
And then when I saw, I was representing US and signed by Jimenio, President Jimenio.
And I was like, huh?
I'm like, you know what?
I thought President Jemena was going to talk to them and convince them to give me
the pro -card, but he told me, like, Angelica, the US, we are awarding you your
pro -card because you deserve.
Like, everything that you've done, everything that they ask you to do, you
did.
So if they denied, we're giving you your pro -card because there's no other way,
sadly, for you to get the pro -card, but you proved that you deserve to, you know,
like, stand with the pros.
Yeah.
then I started like representing US and yeah, it was amazing.
That was in 2015.
two years later, sorry, go ahead.
No, I just, I love, cause like I knew some of the backstory, you know, I've again
followed you for so long, but like, I love that you get to represent the US because
of the experience you had in Brazil, you get to represent like the US that like
loves you so much and treated you so well and honors you.
And the fact that like you got the pro card from the US and you get to rep that,
like I just loved that whole experience for you.
me too.
And actually, like all my Brazilian fans, there was always like, because I always, I
make sure that I also represent Brazil, even though they were saying US, because
well, this is my home country too, right?
So I have the half heart in Brazil, half heart here in US.
And I always make sure to talk in Portuguese in my page and, you know, like
to keep representing Brazil.
So I built a big following in Brazil as well.
But then when it was like the Olympia time and they brought me on stage, representing
United States.
Well, like, you know, like when I won the Olympia, all the Brazilians like, well,
very nice, but why don't say Brazil, you know, when you come on stage?
So they all got really mad.
So at one time I had to go on a big platform in Brazil and speak and tell the
whole story, you know, because a lot of people was like mad because they knew I
was Brazilian.
They knew, you know, like I was also now American and Brazilian, but they were kind
of like mad because it never say Brazil, but they didn't know, you know, everything
that I went through, you know?
So now because Brazil and US with the NEPC worldwide, they so like, you know, like
it's so strong, the link and you know, like Brazilians are here all the time
competing.
Now it's so many Brazilians that got the pro card and before it was just a few.
Now Brazil is like number two in the world, you know, because it's crazy with
the wellness that was created in Brazil, you know, and all of that and all the
amazing competitors coming from Brazil.
It's like super big.
So now when I come on stage, like when I came on stage for the Arnold Classic this
year, it was the first time and I was surprised.
They were like, she's from Brazil, now living in Austin, Texas, you know.
-hmm.
Mm -hmm.
way for me to represent both, you know, the way they brought me on stage, you
know.
And I already see on the Olympia athletes that are qualifying on the list, they put
Brazil, they didn't put US.
And it was someone on the high ups there that put the list, that take off the list.
They chose to put me as...
representing Brazil this time and I'm okay with that because I was always be
representing both no matter you know like and I think when they bring me on stage
they're not just just gonna say Brazil because they know the whole the whole
story you know as well yeah.
Yeah.
That's such a wild story.
I mean, and that's, you know, dating back so many years ago, probably a lot of newer
competitors maybe don't understand, you know, that it was very difficult for
international competitors to obtain pro cards and you never gave up, which I think
is just a very strong quality of yours and why so many people love you.
And there's probably been other times in your life where, you know, you had
adversity.
I kind of want to talk about the knee injury in 2020 and needing to have
surgery.
prior to the Olympia, that was probably another time where, you know, there's
probably a voice going, my gosh, like, maybe this is time for me to take a break.
Maybe I need to, you know, step back a little bit.
So what was that experience like and how did you push through it?
It was really tough because I lost my title in 2019, right?
And then I was like, you know what, I'm going to come back and I'm going to win
that title back in 2020.
And then I did the Arnold, I got second place and it was very close with these.
And I was like, you know what, I can do this.
I'll come back for the Olympia and I'll get that title back.
That was all that was in my mind that year.
And then when I was about to start my prep, there was COVID and this.
you know, that crazy time.
And then dancing with my knees, my knee just from like nowhere because I wasn't
feeling pain or anything.
Like it was something that was like, what happened?
And that was my meniscus.
And yeah, I went to the doctor and he said, okay, you need to get surgery.
But I'm like, hey, I have the Olympia, the Olympia, you know, that was the only thing
that was good for me during COVID time that they pushed the Olympia to December.
And it was always in September, right?
So that was June when I got hurt.
And then he said, well, if you get surgery as soon as possible, I don't think you'll
be able to recover to compete the end of the year because I know you need to go
through, you know, like at least three months of preparation.
And I'm like, no, I actually need to go more because the level of bikini is going
high and I need to bring my best.
And he's like, my God, like there's not enough time.
And I'm like.
What if I don't do this surgery?
He's like, you're going to be limping and not going to be able to even walk properly
on stage and not even train.
And I'm like, OK, let's do this surgery.
And he's like, but I'm telling you, you might not be able to compete.
And I'm like, OK.
And then he did it.
And he was like, OK, physical therapy for two months and no training.
And then I start physical therapy.
And the physical therapist was like, you're recovering really well.
And then everything that he asked me to do, I'm doing, I'm overdoing at home.
-hmm.
And it's like, okay, no lower body workout for two months at least.
And I'm like, okay.
But I start doing like shoulders with like one week after the surgery.
I'm already doing shoulders and biceps, anything that I could do, I was doing.
I had that machine in my garage that I bought for COVID time, like thank God.
So I was kind of like going down in the garage and doing back and.
You know, doing like all the physical therapy, you know, like the exercise from
physical therapy.
And then I was like, you know what, with like less than one month, I was already
trying to squat in the machine.
And I'm like, in the physical therapy, he said, the pain is the signal.
If you feel pain, stop.
And I was kind of like squatting and no pain.
I'm like, you know what?
I think everything is good.
I'm recovered.
And I went back to do a session, like a physical therapy session.
He's like,
You know what, I don't wanna see you anymore." I'm like, what?
He's like, you don't need it.
You're super strong.
Like, I don't know what you're doing, but it's working.
And I'm like, okay, this is all I wanted to hear.
And I'm like, so I'll tell you, I'm already training at home.
I'm already doing leg workouts, squats, and he's like, I knew it.
And he's like, you're too strong.
You come here to physical therapy and this is nothing for you.
And I'm like, okay, so I'll just keep going.
He's like, keep going, you're doing great.
So he just gave me a few exercise.
And then I went back to see my doctor and he's like, and Terika, I knew it.
I'm like, doc, I'm already training.
I feel so good.
And then he did all the exam.
He's like, you're great.
Like, I don't know how you did it, but well, you're ready.
You're ready to start training again.
But when he saved like that, you know, I was like, okay, so now I need two tubes.
Like I already lost my title.
I got second place.
Of course I came from winning, you know, like, like years of just winning, winning,
winning, winning, winning, you know?
And then I lost my title.
I got third place at the Olympia.
And that was kind of like a big, of course third place at the Olympia, come on, it's
every competitor's dream.
But once you're on top for so long, when you drop to third place, it's like,
Wow, well, like, you know, it's kind of like, what's wrong?
What's going on?
You know, even though it's too great, like after that, boom, you're still grateful.
Like, well, I'm still on top, like being on the top five at the Olympics is
amazing.
But come on, I want to go back to the first place, right?
And then there are no, I got second place again.
I'm like, okay, I better start getting used to not getting the first place, you
know?
But in my mind I was like, you know, I know I can do it, you know, like the fire
in my heart.
I'm like, I know I can come.
And I think like no matter the odds, every competitor should always train to win.
No matter, like I had two babies and I start training just after a few months,
thinking about competing.
Like, you know, like I knew I was going to be on stage after just one year of giving
birth and the odds of me not doing well was super high, you know, like.
Everyone was kind of like, she's kind of crazy, you know?
But every competition, I think every competitor should train and get ready for
the competition.
In your mind, like, I can win this.
No matter what it is, no matter if people say like, Angelica, you know, it's like,
right now, it's not really, you know, like, it should be kind of like realistic.
We are, but you still have to win, you know, like to aim to.
do well.
Like I think if you start a preparation, if you do true a prep, thinking about
like, you know what, if I get like fifth place, I'm happy.
Like if you already prepping with that mindset, you might end up doing like
getting like 15 or less, you know?
So, so that year was kind of like, I'm like, you know what, this may be a time to
step back for real and maybe recover and then think about have kids.
All I can prove again that I can overcome, you know, like my life, nothing was easy.
Like coming from Brazil with no English and then having to learn from zero, like
being here was like being born again.
It was super tough and I had the chance to give up.
I had college in Brazil.
I had my, you know, like I could work as a fitness instructor in Brazil.
That's what I went to college to do in Brazil.
You need to go to college to be a personal trainer.
to work in the gym and I love that.
So I had my job in Brazil, I had my family in Brazil, friends, everything, but I was
like, you know what?
I like the tough side, I will learn this.
I always like a challenge.
And I was like, you know what?
This is one more opportunity for me to prove and to inspire other people that
maybe are going through something similar.
But I didn't say anything, I didn't post anything online.
I'm like, you know what?
I don't want anyone to be kind of like...
you know, like second guessing me like, now she's hurt.
And so let's see what she looks like.
Or also people like, poor little thing.
She lost her title.
Now she hurt her knee.
no.
You know, I didn't want that.
I was like, I just want to come.
I know I can overcome this, but I'm not going to say anything to anyone.
I'll do it for me.
And after I'll tell everybody, you know?
So that's what I did.
And I ended up getting fourth place.
And I was like, you know, the fourth place tasted like a first place after everything
I went through that year.
So it was worth it.
Yeah.
Yeah, absolutely.
Were you at that time thinking about, okay, babies are on the horizon now, like
this might be one more show and then we're gonna take a little break.
And when you started your family, did you ever think you might not come back to the
stage?
Yes, I thought like my husband he wanted kids since 2010, you know since before I
start competing.
So that's when I stopped taking like like the pills that I used to take, you know to
avoid 2010 and I was like, okay when comes comes right, but I never came.
So I start competing 2013 and then I was like I never avoided I never you know,
never thought it so I'm like when it's time even though if I'm competing.
no matter what's going on in my life, God knows the right time and kids will come.
So throughout my whole journey, I know it's crazy, but me and my husband, we
never avoided babies, you know?
So it was like, okay, when it comes, comes.
And then like, there was a point after I got my ProCard that my husband sat with me
and then I got my ProCard, I qualified for the Olympia super fast.
And then I'm like, my God, I'm on a roll.
-hmm.
my first Olympia I'll do super good.
Maybe I'll get a top 10.
Well, who knows, maybe top five.
We all dream big, right?
And then I got the second to last place in 2015 at the Olympia.
And then I'm like, OK, I got my pro cut.
But to compete on this level, I don't think I'm on that level yet.
So my husband, we both sat down.
He's like, baby.
I already got your pro card, you compete at the Olympia, that's all you wanted, you
know?
So maybe it's time for us to have babies.
And I'm like, okay.
I'm like, I think you're right.
You know what?
So I also, I wanted to do the Olympian.
I also really wanted to compete at the Arnold, but I don't think they're going to
invite me because who am I, right?
I just did one more pro show, just place last, you know, second to last at the
Olympia.
I don't think they're gonna invite me, baby, but at least I need to send this
letter of consideration.
So I sent the letter and they never got back to me.
And I was like, I didn't know that the lease was gonna come out.
I didn't know anything.
I was kind of like, it was already super tough for me to live here and learn
English at the same time and work and make money for me and my husband and him too
working all day.
You know, we're both trying to survive here and make a living and...
at the same time learning English and competing, you know, just competing is
already something super overwhelming.
So sometimes I didn't know a few things that our competitors sometimes knew, like
that a list was gonna come out for the arna.
I didn't know that.
I sent the letter, but I thought they was gonna answer my email with like, because
it was an email back then.
They were gonna like with one, two days, get back to me or maybe a week, but and
then a week went by, two weeks, and they never got back to me.
And I'm like, you know what, baby, you're right.
They didn't answer, so they did not even consider.
So let's just, you know, like focus on us.
And I think to have babies, I need to bring my body fat, you know, like higher,
you know, I need to gain some weight and some body fat.
So let's just enjoy.
We would out, you know, like having dinner like three, four times, you know, like a
week, things that, because I was on the quest to win overalls, you know, like
that.
whole 2014 was tough, we could not do much, right?
So just enjoying, traveling, and like, I gained like, I don't know, maybe 15, I was
the heaviest, like ever since I started competing.
And then I was in the gym, you know, like with my clients, right?
Like training my clients.
And then my phone started beeping, beep, beep, beep, beep, beep, beep, beep, beep,
beep, beep, beep, beep
And then I keep walking and then beep beep beep.
I'm like, hold on, something's going on.
Like my phone never rings that way.
And then when I see like so many messages from all the other bikini girls like, my
God, congratulations, you got invited for the album.
I'm like, what?
They're like, you didn't know?
I'm like, no, what's going on?
They're like, the list came out.
I'm like, what list?
I was just like flying away.
Like I didn't know, you know, like, and then I was like, where is this list?
Where?
They're like, they're FBB Pro League website.
And they also posted on the Instagram.
So I went to see everything.
And I'm like, I look at me, I'm like, my god, I'm so fluffy.
I'm like, what am I going to do?
And hey, and me and my husband, we sat down.
I'm like, OK, I'm not going to invite me, looks like.
So let's focus on have babies.
So I sat down with my husband that day after work.
And I'm like, baby, there's something that I need to tell you.
He's like, what's going on?
I'm like.
Arnold invited me to compete.
Like, I'm invited, you know, so I can do the Arnold.
And he's like, I'm like, but I know you want to have kids and we, you know, like,
we're kind of like excited for this new journey.
So, so you tell me what do you want to do?
And he's like, baby, it's the Arnold.
You have to do it.
And I'm like, yes, I think so too.
You know, so that's when everything shifted and the goal of having kids, we
always had it, you know, we always wanted.
But then after the Arnold, that was when I break the top five and I got fourth place
in 2016.
And then my name start to be out there like, who is this girl?
And then I won the South Lake City show and then I won the Pittsburgh Pro and then
the New York Pro.
And I kind of came as one of the favorites for the leap and got second place, like
after Courtney Kane in 2016.
And then I was like, baby, we can't stop now.
He's like, no, no, we can't stop now.
You know, you're doing too good to stop.
So he always supported, you know, even though he was the one that really wanted
kids.
Since when we got married, like, you know, like we together for 20 something years,
you know.
So since the beginning, when we got married in Brazil, still, he always wanted
kids, but I wanted to wait.
I wanted to do something with my career.
I didn't know it was going to be competing, you know, like I was gonna
just...
just being a personal trainer, you know, being a trainer.
But, and then he said, well, now you're on your way, like, you know, like your dreams
are coming true, like you can't stop now.
So that's when I kept going, kept going.
And I was like, you know what, now I want to do everything that I can, be on top,
build my name.
And then after I see that I've done everything, that's when I want to have
kids.
So after the Olympia that I got third place, that I lost my title, I was like,
huh, maybe it's the time.
But I was like, no, I don't think it's fair to lose and stop.
I think I should at least prove to people that I didn't give up, that I lost.
And at least I came back and I tried to win it back or I show up.
I don't want to be that champion there.
The first fall, stay there and say, you know what, that's it.
Like, this is it, you know?
I'm like, I want to prove to people that no matter if I lose or win, as long as I
keep showing up, you know, like I'm proving to myself that, you know, like I'm
proud of myself and, you know, like they still can do this.
So, I'm not gonna stop now.
I'm still gonna do that one more show, you know?
So after the Olympia 2020, that was clear in my heart that that was the time, you
know?
So it's like, now I got fourth place, it's amazing.
I was happy.
I was super happy with my physique.
I think I never brought like, you know, like for me it was my best shape, even
though I won the Olympia.
Like we all know that, you know, like the physique evolves with time.
And I think I did that.
Like after I lost, like I was able to change everything, kind of like do a
different prep and bring a different shape for the Arnold and also a different shape
for the Olympia.
And I was proud.
I'm like what I wanted because honestly in 2019 I lost my title.
But I was super down because I wasn't proud of myself, of my physique.
And, you know, so once I was on stage, I didn't have fun.
It wasn't fun, you know?
I didn't leave the stage kind of like, wow, I'm proud, you know, like of what I
brought, you know?
So I wanted the last show to be like, before having kids, to leave the stage and
be like...
I'm proud.
Like, you know, I think I presented a package that, you know, like no matter if
I win or if I lose, I'm proud and that's what matters, you know.
So after the show, even though I got fourth place, I was happy.
I'm like, hey, I'm still like in the top five best in the world.
And I think this physique was even better than the other physiques, even though I
won the other years.
I think I was able to really improve my package and this and that.
And I'm like, okay, now it's time.
So I told my husband, he's like, okay.
He was like, yes, baby, this is the time.
You are amazing.
Your name is there, you know?
And no matter what happens, nobody gonna take, you know, like from you everything
that you've done and who you are.
Everyone loves you.
And I think this is the next step.
Let's have babies.
I'm like, okay, let's do it.
But in my mind I was like, okay, let's do it.
But what can we do different?
Because we have been avoiding babies for this long.
So in my mind I was like, I think I'll have to do a treatment, you know?
That's what I thought.
And then I went to my primary doctor and did like a bunch of blood work and exams.
And I told him like, hey, maybe you're gonna have to give me a contact of a
doctor.
You know, they specialize in having babies because I told him like, all this time we
did not avoid, but I never got pregnant.
And I was happy that I never got pregnant during this time, but now like maybe
something's wrong.
Yeah, yeah.
clinic, something's going on.
Yeah.
sure.
And then Mark was like, maybe it's me.
I'm like, no, maybe it's me.
And also because my body fat was always so low during all this time.
And after I start doing well and well, you miss Olympia, you cannot really rebound
and gain all the weight.
I always kept like a healthy weight during my off seasons, but I don't think it was
enough, you know, like to be able to get pregnant.
So I was like, I always had my period too.
I would lose, you know, like miss like...
that last month of PrEP, always not come.
And I'm like, okay, so I don't have my period this time, but right after when I
went into off season, it was back with a month.
So I'm like, so it was kind of like, always kind of like normal.
So I don't understand why.
So like, okay, let's investigate.
But after I went and saw my primary doctor, he sent the referral for the
doctor, for the fertilization doctor.
And then...
I'm like, I start feeling weird, I'm like, I'm feeling a little weird.
And then my husband like, baby, your belly got so bloated.
And I'm like, I know, right?
Wow, the every off season.
Yeah, only him, yeah.
He's like, nobody tell that, but I can't like, he's like, I'm like, yeah, baby, I
always getting weight on my thighs, you know, my hip area, you know, it's always
like for my off season, but never my stomach.
And I'm like,
Baby, I'm really feeling weird because I never get that bloated during my off
season in my stomach.
It's always like that fat under the glutes.
And I'm like, something's going on.
He's like, baby, you pregnant.
I'm like, no, babe, of course not.
Like, we not even went there to see the doctor yet.
And it's been, that was March.
I'm like, I just step out of stage.
Like I'm still super lean, you know?
Like it was just a bloat in my belly, but that's it.
I'm like, I'm like, baby.
There's something, something's really weird.
I'm like, so I went quiet and bought the test and I didn't tell him, but he was the
one that said like, you are pregnant.
I'm like, I'm not.
So I went really quiet, bought the test and then went to the restroom and did it
like it was an afternoon.
And then I'm like, everyone says it's better in the morning.
So I'll do another one tomorrow.
But then I did it and then I waited.
And when I look, I'm like pregnant.
I'm like.
Hmm?
way!
I'm like, no, I bought three and then I'm like, no, I'm gonna do one more.
It's not possible.
No.
I'm like, all these years not getting pregnant and I'm gonna get pregnant so
easy now.
Like, something is wrong.
And then I did another one, pregnant.
And then I researched like, can it be wrong?
And they say, no, it can be wrong if it says negative, but positive is not a
possibility.
I'm like, my God, I know what to do.
I'm like...
God, I'm still gonna do more tomorrow morning because they say gotta be in the
morning, you know?
But then my husband was kind of like out and he was gonna, he was coming back from
work and he called me like, baby, I'm gonna stop by the police academy because
I'm gonna run with the guys and roll two cheats.
So with the guys I'm like, no baby, I think you should come home.
And he's like, are you okay?
I'm like, I'm okay, but please come home.
And he's like.
I'm like, we can run here together.
You don't need to run with them.
And I'm like, I just wanted him to come home.
And he's like, okay, no, okay.
I'm like, are you sure you okay?
I'm like, -huh, come home, babe, please come home.
And then he got home and he went, it's like, I see all the woman, you know, that
tell their husbands, super, you know, they made a V, they make a video, they record
everything, they put on a box, kind of like, you know, like the test and give it
to them.
Super nice, make a surprise.
I was super, you know, I went crazy.
And I'm like, and then he got home and he was like, I need to use the restroom.
I'm like, no, baby, come here first.
I'm like, no, no, I really need to use the restroom.
He went straight to the restroom and I couldn't wait.
I went to the restroom and I'm like, baby, I'm pregnant.
He was sitting on the toilet.
You're just so excited though.
my gosh.
wait.
And then after, and then he was like, my God, thank God I'm already sitting in the
toilet because I feel like I'm sick now.
And then I was kissing him, he was kissing me, he's sitting on the toilet.
I'm like, my God.
And after that, real life, yes.
For the second one, I tried to do different, I'm like, okay, this time I'll
do different, you know?
But for the first time it was really funny, you know.
After that, after that that I saw that and then I stopped because I was always so
busy competing, making a life here and this and that.
I was not even looking at what pregnant woman, how they tell their husbands, you
know, like I didn't know.
There was nobody that I followed back then that was getting pregnant and well, I
didn't know.
And then after that, a bunch of videos popping for me.
I'm like...
So now you show me that it's nice to make a surprise for your husband, okay?
But yeah, but it was awesome.
And it was, for me, it was God.
Like, you know, like we didn't do anything different.
It was just like, I don't know if it was the mindset or, you know, what changed it.
There was like, you know, I'm wedding now in like just two months, like December,
October, no, December, January, February, March.
So three months I was pregnant.
So for me it was God.
It's like, okay, she's ready now, it's the perfect time and it happened, you know?
Yeah, yeah.
But yeah, but you ask also if it was in my mind that I was one day go back on stage.
At first I thought like, this is it.
Now it's another, you know, like chapter.
I did everything I done.
I still wanna be like involved in the industry.
So.
I got more clients, like I start coaching more.
I was already coaching since 2019, but after I got pregnant, I was like, you know
what, now I want to coach more because I don't wanna be on stage anymore.
I don't know what's gonna happen to my body.
You know, and as the pregnancy, you know, it start to happen and my belly was
growing and my body was transforming.
I kind of like embrace it, you know, like I think I was always like that my whole
journey.
I was never one of those competitors that didn't like to see my body on off -seats.
I always show off with more curves, you know, on a bikini and cellulite and a
little bit of fat here and there.
I always really like, you know, like the shape.
It never really bothered me.
So once I got pregnant, it was kind of like, you know what, I have to embrace
this.
And then my body changed and I really loved my body during pregnancy.
But I was like, okay, after baby's gone, after baby's out, like...
You know, that's when I'm really, yeah, that's, you know, like the empty belly and
what's gonna happen, lose skin and I don't know what's gonna happen, you know?
So I was like, no, I would just focus on building my family now because I don't
want just one.
I always wanted, you know, like my baby to have siblings or at least one.
And then after I had the lease, I was like, you know what, doctor say, so now do
you want to avoid have babies?
What method do you want to use?
I'm like, no, I don't wanna use anything.
He's like.
Really?
I'm like, Doc, I'm not too young, you know, so I want my baby to have a sister
or a brother.
So it took me all this time to get pregnant.
Look, I never voted in like since 2010 that I didn't have, you know, and just now
I got pregnant.
Imagine if it takes a long time for me to get pregnant again.
And he said, usually, after you get pregnant once, it's easier for you to get
pregnant really fast right after.
I'm like, I don't know doc.
I'm rather not avoid and when it's time, when God wants again, I'll get pregnant
again.
And okay, so blessed.
He's like, okay, no, you're right.
If you're not too young, you don't feel comfortable waiting.
Okay, well, four months, at least it was four months and I was already like,
something's wrong again.
And Mark like, okay, because I got in a really good shape right after.
And I felt really good.
And in my mind, I was like, you know what, if I get pregnant now, I'm comfortable
again with my body.
So I think it's fine.
I wanted to get pregnant after losing, you know, like the pregnancy weight and
feeling nice and comfortable again with my body.
That's when, you know, I said, I want to get pregnant.
And it happened really fast.
Thank God, you know, I think because I kept training my whole pregnancy, eating
really well.
And then after baby, after doctor cleared me to start training again, I was awaiting
the team training, eating,
You're eating super good, you know?
So my body was kind of like back, not to, of course, competition shape, but to a
nice body that I like it with more curves and, you know?
And then my husband again, like, you're getting bloated again.
I'm like, no, stop that.
Like, no, no.
Yeah.
you're a little bloated, go take a test.
funny because some women feel nausea, right?
I never had for both pregnancies, no nausea, no nothing.
It was like, I swear, it was like nothing was happening.
The only thing that I had with my first one was kind of like some food aversions,
like I loved pinabarro and then during pregnancy I hated pinabarro.
Like onions, I love everything with a lot of onions and garlic, you know, all my
food for seasoning, I always put a lot of onions.
I could not do any onions, you know?
So that was the only thing, but other than that, no nausea, no feeling sick, no low
energy, no nothing.
Like it was amazing.
Like my doctor said after my second one, he said, when are we gonna go for the
third one?
I'm like, no doc, no, I'm done.
That's it.
He's like, don't say that.
You are my best client.
Even having babies, you don't complain about anything.
You feel great your whole pregnancy.
You're super healthy your whole pregnancy.
I'm like, no doc, it's not true.
Because I had a lot of allergies during pregnancy.
I'm like, remember my allergies?
Like, this is nothing.
I'm telling about the other bad stuff that happens to all the pregnant women.
I'm like, no, dad, you were right.
But that's it, doc.
Because that's like, I felt really, really good.
The only thing was allergies was really, really high my whole pregnancy.
So that was the thing that today I'm like, no.
I think I'm good because it was so, so bad that I had to get a sinus surgery after my
second one.
-huh.
Yeah, yeah.
Because I don't know why.
I was always a little allergic in Brazil, in New Jersey, when I was living in New
Jersey, no allergies at all.
Once I moved to Texas, here in Austin is really like a lot of trees, like, you
know, like there, everyone gets allergic here, and I started getting allergic in
2019 when I moved here.
and then start getting worse in 2020 and then I got pregnant.
And then during pregnancy, you know, like the airways, everything kind of like is
different because everything gets a little swollen here.
And my breathing was terrible, but a doctor said, take all your medicine.
I'm like, no, I'm like, I'm not gonna risk taking medicine, you know, knowing that I
have my baby here, I'll just push through it.
And then I went to see the doctor again, like, hey, you can, it's okay.
You can't be feeling, you know, like so bad about your sinus and about your
allergy.
You need to do something.
I'm like, so this is safe to do.
I'm like, I'm not gonna do it.
So I chose not to do any medicine during pregnancy.
And then after Alisa, it was really bad.
I discovered I had asthma because I was all the time not treating, you know, the
allergy.
So I was like, huh, so now I have asthma.
I had to start treating the asthma.
And then it was mild asthma.
So I need, you know, it wasn't something that I needed to worry so much, but it
happened.
And then I got pregnant right after.
And I'm like, well, and then everything started all over again for all those nine
months.
So there's no pregnancy that has with, you know, like not everything.
Yeah.
Everyone always will have a little something that will bother, you know, and
for me it was just that.
Like nothing else will bother, but my eyelids, my sinus.
And then after I had the islet,
And I went to treat and the doctor said, okay, we finally can treat.
Please don't get pregnant again.
Let's just treat this first.
And then I did a CT scan and they were like, wow, this is really interesting.
Like all my sinus was all gray and it's supposed to be black, right?
Because it's a hole and it was all gray here, here.
That was all full of mocos like everywhere.
And then we tried with antibiotics and like sprays and...
nothing worked like in steroids and a lot of things that they gave me but nothing
worked like I did another CT scan and like still gray like to a point that I stopped
feeling the sense of smell and stopped like hearing from one from one year and
I'm like okay yeah we need to do something and the doctor say that surgery and it's
the you know like the high level surgery need to do in the hospital now even the
clinic and it was like general anesthesia I'm like wow.
Okay, so you know, like think about having another baby and now I clean everything.
I feel better even though it's not 100 % but I feel much better.
I'm like, you know, like because of their reason and other reasons too, you know,
I'm happy with two.
It's, you know, I think they have each other, you know, we all, we have happy
family.
Yeah, they stay 13 months apart and that's what I really wanted because I'm 13
months, exactly 13 months apart with my older sister.
Mm -hmm.
always like this.
And then we have my younger sister is two years younger than me.
And we also like, you know, us three, like three best friends.
So I'm like, I want to have one back to back so they can be friends like us, you
know?
So that's what I have.
And I'm like, you know what?
I'm happy.
Even though we wanted a boy too.
I told the doctor, I'm like, Marco wanted a boy.
He's like, there's no way.
Like it's 50 -50.
Like, you know, like.
Yeah.
I don't wanna keep trying, keep trying, keep trying, you know?
No.
they had four girls before they had a boy.
And that was, yeah.
no, I don't want to, yeah, no, I can't.
And Michael said, well, one day we end up having a boy.
I'm like, no, no.
I'm like, baby, now I'm happy with my body.
You know, like, I don't want to go through everything again.
And not just my body, but also like my health, like, you know, feeling that way
again and then having to maybe go get surgery again.
You know, like, I'm like, no, this was too extreme.
Like, I think we're good with you.
Yeah.
So take me back then to the time when you've now got two little ones and now
you've had sinus surgery and you decide you're going to make a comeback.
Like when did you decide, OK, I'm going to go back to competing and I'm not only
going to pick a pro show, but I'm going to put in for the Arnold.
So tell me how that kind of all came to be.
Yeah, so it was actually, it was so after I had the highland, then my body went back
like, you know, like super fast, you know, I didn't expect that.
I'm like, okay, now that I'm having my second baby back to back, my body gonna be
different, you know, like two pregnancies, you know, like the belly did not even go
back all the way and then stretch again.
I'm like, let's see how I look.
And then after my body start changing, change, I start losing weight.
Not even trying super hard, like still going out enjoying life.
But when we have this lifestyle, we are, you know, this is what we do.
Like, if I'm not going out with my husband, I'm eating clean, you know, and
what I do, I go to the gym.
That's what I do, you know, my whole life.
So it's my lifestyle.
So just by doing this as a lifestyle and super with balance, I was already getting
back in shape.
And then, and then I was like, okay.
I just feel good for me and that's it.
I don't think I want to, I love having this balance and being able to enjoy life
more and eat, you know, like whatever when I want and traveling with my husband, with
my kids and you know, this is great.
But and then I went to the Olympia, you know, like they hired me to do the pay
-per -view for Brazil and I was there.
And then, you know, like I, while I was there, I was like, in my mind, she like,
no, I don't think I'll ever.
you know, like compete again.
But when I saw Bikini on stage and I was talking about bikini and then all the
environment, and I was like, my God, maybe, maybe like I stop and never say
that I was, that was my last show.
Like, you know, maybe, you know, this is not fair.
Maybe I should still go back there, you know, and feel, feel like, and see how I
feel and even like motivate more people now that I have babies, right?
So they start to kind of like bug me.
at the Olympia when I saw Bikini on stage.
And then also everyone that was kind of like seeing me in the industry because it
was a long time that I didn't see, you know, like a lot of people, they're like,
my God, you're getting ready for a show, you look amazing.
I'm like, really?
They're like, yeah, you look great.
I'm like, my God, maybe I do, you know?
So I kind of like lost sense, like, you know, like where I was standing with all
my, you know, my physique.
And people were really impressed, like, my God, you look great, like all the time.
I'm like, maybe I really do look great and maybe I'm close, like, I don't know.
So after I came back from the Olympics, step on scale, it was a while that I
didn't step on scale, and I'm like, 121 pounds?
I'm like, this is almost my stage weight.
I'm like, what's going on?
And then I'm like, well, weight is pretty close, but my physique is not so close,
like so.
I'm like, you know what, let me do a video, let me put it on the bikini because
it's been since 2020 that I, you know, didn't put on a bikini.
And then after the Olympiade Légion, I'm like, you know what, let me put on a
bikini.
And then I put on a bikini, did a video and I'm like, well, you know what, it's
not that bad.
Like, okay, missing something here and there.
You know, I think I'll have like some work to do, but it was more like it was the
opposite as all the other preps.
Like, I'm like, okay, now I think I will need to.
Regain some muscle.
I think I you know, I did lost some muscle by the way I lost like my weight is super
low I always started my prep around 130 and now I'm 121.
So I actually need to start this prep gaining weight now losing weight, you know
So that's when I was like, you know what and then I told my husband like let's see
He's gonna throw me down like hey, come on.
We have two babies now, you know, no time for that.
I'm like, baby.
What do you think?
like
A lot of people ask me if I'm getting ready for a show at the Olympia.
Like everyone kind of like saying that I look great, that I'm super close, think
that I'm prepping already.
Like, do you think I should step on stage again?
And he's like, I think you should.
I'm like, really?
You think so?
Like, Angelica.
Like, there's nothing more motivating, like more inspiring than having like two
babes, back to back babes and then being able to step on stage again and looking at
you, baby, you.
you're not too far, like you can do this.
I'm like, really?
I'm like, okay.
I'm like, okay, I think I can do this.
And then I send like a really close friend and a doctor.
She lives in California.
She's Brazilian too.
And she was always like, she always followed this whole journey, you know,
like as a friend, she was also competing.
And then she was always like, you know, in my corner.
And I said it to her, like my video, like, Amiga, I think I'm gonna compete again.
What do you think?
She's like.
my god, I'm calling you right now and this is like, start putting that fire like, I
think you should, my god, look at your video.
You are an alien, like, who else I know, you know, like they're gonna have two
babies and look like this, like this is so close, amiga.
And I'm like, okay, so let's do it.
This is like, yeah, I'm here for you, let's do it.
So that's when I start to, you know, like I'm like, you know what, I will do it and
I'll take like big challenge, like I don't wanna just do it, I'll.
I'll sign up for the Arnold.
I think I had 16 weeks, I think, at that time.
Like, I'll send my letter of consideration to the Arnold, and let's see if they're
gonna accept me, but I'll start prep right away, and I'll prep myself.
And then, like, you know, like, my husband was like, prep yourself, like, this is
crazy.
I'm like, you know what?
Yeah, if I'm gonna do something crazy, I'll go big.
I'll go crazy all the way.
Yeah, I'll do it all.
And then I start prepping myself.
Of course, I had people on my corner to help me, you know, like I coach with Fit
Body Fusion.
You know, I started in 2020, like last year.
So it's been over a year that I'm with them.
And I'm like, hey, you know, like I have Jamie that she can kind of like guide me
with anything that I need.
You know, she's super knowledgeable and she was, you know, one of the eyes that
had, you know, like second eyes.
And then this friend too, you know, she's super knowledgeable too.
She has clients that compete.
She's a personal trainer and she kind of, she was a competitor herself and my
husband was always there too, you know, kind of like following every step through
this like 40 competitions that I've done, you know?
So he knew too.
So like I just needed someone to kind of like tell me, okay, it's going well.
You're in the right, you know, like track, you know?
So.
I had all these people in my corner and I said, okay, I can do this.
And it was amazing.
I was super, super happy with the package that I brought.
I love seeing all your, like the prep journey with your kids though.
Like all of the reels and photos.
Like it's just so fun to see your little girls like be a part of it.
Like while you're doing posing or practicing or trophies, it's just so cute.
Like to see them like, look at mommy.
It's...
yeah, and that was the main reason that I say, you know what?
And then I was thinking my husband, you know, gave me that push and I'm like, I'm
like, you know what?
Like if I never go back on stage, they might end up thinking that I stopped
because of them.
I know they're going to be super proud of all my journey, you know, like my, my now
both of them, you know, the youngest, kind of like looking at me, mom, mom, mom, you
know, like all my pictures on the wall, my bikini that I have a room that has, you
know, like.
all my, a lot of things on the wall, my bikini that I won the Olympia, like, you
know, magazine pictures.
And that, you know, at that time, just the oldest one, like, was always like, mom,
mom, and kind of like wanted to see my magazines and, and kind of like touching
my bikini and trying to wear my bikini.
I'm like, they are very proud, you know, like I know they're going to be proud, but
in, in the back of their mind, like, as soon as mom got pregnant with us, she
stopped.
So we ended her career, you know?
I'm like, it's not fair to leave this on them, like to think that, okay, after all,
she never competed again because we end up her career.
I'm like, no, I want, I actually want them to be part of this.
I want them to be with me at a show and to, I want to have pictures with them of
me on the bikini and they watch me on stage, you know?
I want them to be part of this because competing is such a big part of my life.
Like something that I love is something that,
You know, like I do it because I love, I start doing this because I love, I always
enjoy, I enjoy prep, I enjoy going to the gym, I enjoy the diet.
It's something that I do and it's not really a struggle for me.
Otherwise I would not sacrifice my family and be miserable, you know?
So I'm like, it's something that I enjoy, it's such a big part of my life and I want
to make sure that they are part of this chapter too, you know?
So I'm like, it's not now, yeah.
I'm like, if not now, when?
I'm like, if I don't do it right now, right after, I'm not gonna do it later.
Time is ticking, I'm not super young and I don't wanna be doing this, of course,
forever, but I feel that I should can.
I look at my physique, I'm like, I had two babies, but I think I should can bring
something special to the stage and inspire other moms and people that are away from
the stage and that did not even had kids, but maybe.
step away and maybe thinking about coming back but feel that they are too far away
from that, you know?
I'm like, I think this would be like good to send a message, hey, we can do this.
Like no matter what you put your mind, you know, to if you really want it, you can do
it, you know?
Yeah.
So yeah.
What do you say?
Yeah.
ever and continue to work on your goals.
And it just looks different.
I think that's what's kind of daunting because now you've got, you know, more on
your plate and you've got so many different hats that you wear.
And one thing we always like to ask our pro athletes that are mothers, how do you
juggle all of the things that you have to do to take care of your family, your
responsibilities as a wife, as a coach, as a sponsored athlete?
and as a pro competitor, how do you fit it all in?
Yeah, sometimes I ask myself like, how I'm doing all of this?
my God.
Like, there's, you know, like one time of the month that I go like, God, I don't
know if I can do this anymore, you know?
But it's just like really having balance and really living in the moment.
And like when I'm with my kids, I'm with my kids, you know, like when I'm with my
husband, they are the, they are number one, like priority phone.
on top of everything, you know?
So that is a time for them and I can like try to really set up a schedule for
everything.
Like, you know, like the time that I'm with them and no matter what happened, you
know, it's their time.
And then after, you know, like that time I have a time that I answer all my check
-ins, my clients, you know?
And then after that time I put them to nap and I have a babysitter that stays here in
the house, you know?
Thank God I have her.
She takes care of everything.
Babies like wash the clothes, fold, put in the right place, wash the bottles, prepare
like food if I need to, you know, like I'll tell her what I want her to prepare
for them.
And like all these little things like that my free time I can just spend with them,
you know?
I don't need to be, okay, babies play, I'm washing the bottle, you know?
So I have like, that's why, you know, I told her like I need to hear, but
sometimes not.
To stay with babies would be more to take care of everything babies, so I can spend
more time with them.
And then after, so we both put them to nap and after that it's the time for me to
leave the house because they sleeping.
So I try to go train and while I'm train I represent my sponsors because then I'm
wearing the clothes that I love and taking the supplements.
So I try to do everything in the gym while I train.
I take pictures, I make videos, I make a selfie, you know, so it's part of my, like
I just represent things that I really love for their reason, you know, like I had
like more things that kind of like opportunities that came and even like
different things like to represent that doesn't fit like my regular lifestyle,
like let's say a watch or represent like something different, like, you know,
something that is, that they see that I kind of like have a little bit of
influence like.
hey, but maybe you can do this even though it's not fitness related.
I'm like, I can't.
It gotta be things that I really love that I'll be happy using and that will be part
of my life that I can show.
Like trifecta is the food that I eat.
My baby eats trifecta.
I'm kind of like eating and I'm showing.
It's not something that I need to take all the time to prepare or to promote.
So everything is really real.
Yeah.
to the gym before my training.
I show that I'm using my pre -workout from Bucked Up and then I'm wearing my TLF
clothes and I'm eating trifecta and I'm wearing my slittoon shaper, you know, like
in waist training.
So like I'm just representing things that fits my lifestyle because that makes my
life easier, you know?
I love it.
I'll be wearing even though if I was not an athlete, so why not, right?
Yeah.
makes it super easy.
So I say no to a few opportunities because it would not fit this lifestyle, you know?
And I'll have to be taking time to just like take a picture here or pretend I'm
doing this, you know?
There's no time for pretending.
It's just like everything that I love, like, okay, I love, I use it.
Why not represent and tell everyone that follows me, you know, that I really love
and use and recommend, okay?
So when I'm in the gym, that's when I make all the food and everything.
And then I come back home, they waking up, the time is for them again.
And then if I have one client or the client that needs me, send me a message,
not check -ins anymore, I already answered all my check -ins earlier.
So I can get back to them because we like all my check -ins is in the app and I get
a notification in my phone.
So it's easier.
Like why are they playing?
I can answer, like my clients.
And then, like, night times for my family, for my husband, I make dinner for them
even though I'm on prep.
Like, I make pizza for them even though I'm on prep, you know?
Like, it's easy for me.
It's not.
I think after doing this for so long, we don't...
I don't know if you guys are the same, but yeah, I'm not really like, ugh, yeah.
a, it really is a mom thing because I've been doing it since I started prep two.
It's just, I don't want to miss out on that stuff with my kid.
Same thing, like I'll make all their breakfast, lunch, dinner, and I'll make my
prep food.
We'll sit up and we'll all sit at the table and eat together.
I'll eat my prep food and they'll eat whatever it is that I made them.
So.
you that they want to eat a little bit of your food.
That was the hardest part for me.
Because yeah, they're sharing.
They eat super clean.
So I was like, I'm like, my god, they're going to want to eat my food now.
So I.
always steals my water.
That's he's still to this day.
I'm like you are 14 years old get your own water He's like, but yours is right here.
I'll just drink yours.
I'm like
it.
Yeah, yeah, same here and they're super young and they see that big gallon.
I think they think, wow, it's so interesting.
Let me drink this water.
But yeah, I start like waiting, waiting some extra, you know, like extra rice,
extra chicken.
So like if they want, it's right there.
I can give them from the extra like, yeah.
Yeah.
growing up in it, so they won't know any different other than, you know, mom works
out and mom, you know, eats this way and it's just, it's how it is, you know, and
so, and it's healthy.
Yeah.
They like vegetables.
They like fruits.
They like, you know, like all the types, like they love protein, like chicken,
beef, anything that I give them.
It's like, you know, they love like any type of food.
So I think this is a great example.
They already going to the garage, pretending training.
I'm working out.
I'm like, okay.
I'm like, you know, I love this, you know, me and my husband too super active.
So we both setting a good example on them, you know, to exercise, to eat well.
So this is, I'm proud, you know, to be showing them.
Like some people say, maybe if you prep, you're going to show them that you're
being too strict and maybe this is not good for them.
Like, I don't think so.
Like, you know, really don't think so.
I think this is being great.
Like, you know, like for them to see like, mommy's eating healthy, mommy's eating
vegetables.
Like,
She's not just telling me to eat broccoli, but she's also eating broccoli, you know?
So, yeah.
hard work, too.
boy, teenage boy in a bikini bodybuilding world and it's the best thing I ever did.
is, yeah, that is something else.
Now you're saying that I never thought about that because, well, I'm raising two
girls and they already like talking about bikini.
They want to put on my bikini and my heels.
Raising a boy is different and you see?
Yeah.
the food, the training, he sees it, he sees the dedication.
It's really the same.
Like, he sees how, you know, staying dedicated, staying disciplined, going to
the gym, what you can achieve.
He's gone to my shows, he's seen the guys, he's seen the girl.
But it does give him a real respect for women, because he sees how hard it is to,
like, achieve and maintain a physique, and how, like, you know, building muscle, and
just, like, the dedication.
So it's just a different perspective, but it's neat, so.
great job.
all my friends compete and all overall in bikinis all the time.
So he's totally unfazed by women in bikinis.
And he's my son's competed already.
He's 16 and he did a competition.
Yeah.
So like the whole family is, you know, is interested and supports me in my goal
because they've, you know, seen me do it.
So I think for, you know, women, like young women growing up and seeing moms be
strong and, you know, fuel their bodies and, you know, learn about nutrition.
I think it's so important.
And, and.
and having goals and showing them that you just, you set a goal and you go for it.
You're showing them to reach for the stars.
And yeah, they've got a great role model in you.
Yes, yeah.
love that.
You both doing a great job.
Like I'm just getting started, you know, I did just two shows with them.
And I know you guys have been doing, you know, like such a big journey with kids.
It's not easy, but it's so rewarding.
It's like, you know, honestly, it was the best feeling like getting out of the stage
and they are there, you know, they were happy.
They kind of like ran towards me and I'm like, I don't know if I...
cry or if I laugh, you know, like the best feeling.
Like, and no matter what happened, they will always be there for you and proud,
right?
Yep.
exactly.
It's so rewarding.
That's so awesome.
Yeah.
my gosh, this has been just so great to talk to you as a mom and what that
experience has been like.
It's so different now on the competition side with a family and how you're
balancing it.
And you're such a role model to so many, especially us who've got kids and seeing
you juggle it all.
So thank you so much for your insight and you're just a true icon in the sport in so
many ways.
And so thank you.
I appreciate it.
I appreciate this time, you know, like having me here and You know, like I told
you guys, you know, like I'm not doing so much so many podcasts like there's so many
invites but Life is so busy, you know with all of this that we spoke about and I was
like, you know what this this one I need to do it because you know, like bikini
after babies, you know This is special for me.
Wow.
So yeah
I'm three days out.
I'm too emotional.
I'm going to cry.
Thank you so much.
Yeah.
the podcast and juggling life.
Like you guys are amazing too.
Like, you know, I'm so happy to be part of this community and have this sport.
Yeah.
Thank you.
guys, thank you so much for listening to this episode today.
All of Angelica's information, if you don't already follow her, which you
absolutely should be, will be in the show notes below.
Angelica, thank you so much for joining us today and we'll see you guys next time.
Bye.
Bye bye.