MikeCon Photography www.mikeconphoto.com

First and foremost, I want to thank everyone that I’ve worked with over the years!! When people scroll through my work today, they see the polished final product, the beautiful lighting, the sharp focus, the natural expressions. What they don’t see is the sacrifice, the endless hours, and the relentless hustle it took to get here.

Becoming a professional photographer wasn’t something that just happened overnight. It was years of grit, trial and error, rejection, and constant learning. Photography, like any business, isn’t glamorous behind the scenes. It’s late nights, early mornings, and being your own harshest critic.

I want to share my journey so you can understand what it really took to build MikeCon Photography, and why photographers are some of the best problem solvers out there.

Starting From Scratch: In 2012, I moved from San Diego to Colorado. I didn’t know a single soul. If I was going to make it as a photographer, I had to start from zero.

I passed out business cards to strangers everywhere…in malls, churches, grocery stores, restaurants, coffee shops, anywhere I went. But it wasn’t just about handing someone a card; it was about sharing my passion. Every conversation I had was about photography, because I wanted people to know how much I loved what I did.

Most people would take the card, nod politely, and walk away without saying a word. Some would respond, but only to ask for free shoots. And in the beginning, I did A LOT of free shoots. I worked for exposure, for experience, and to get my name out there. Exposure is all that people would offer me because when you’re on the bottom, that’s exactly how they see you.

But over time, I realized that giving away my work for free wasn’t sustainable. I started turning down free shoots, set real prices, and shifted my mindset from hobbyist to entrepreneur. That was the turning point when I truly began to build MikeCon Photography into a true business, not just a passion project.

Mastering My Craft (And the Business)

Being a photographer is only about 25% taking pictures. The rest? Learning to run a business and solving constant problems.

Here’s what I had to teach myself:

Lighting: Indoors, outdoors, golden hour, harsh noon sun…you name it.

Angles: Finding the most flattering look for each person, every time. Trust me…it varies!!

Editing: Mastering photo editing software that’s always changing.

Gear Knowledge: Knowing every button, dial, and setting on my camera.

Website Development: I built my own website from scratch, due to necessity.

SEO & Metadata: I learned how to get found online.

Social Media: Staying on top of Instagram, Facebook, and whatever new app shows up.

Marketing & Branding: Learning how to promote myself without sounding like a desperate salesman.

Building a Client Base: Turning strangers into clients and clients into loyal supporters.

All while learning how to talk and listen (listening is key!) like a civilian again after years in the military. That transition alone was a learning curve most people can’t imagine.

The Reality of the Industry

Photography is a highly competitive field. Let’s be honest…photographers are everywhere, and many will work for next to nothing just to book a shoot.

To stand out, I had to be relentless. I spent countless hours scouting locations across Colorado, Virginia, and overseas in places like Germany, Italy, Switzerland, and France to give my clients something special.

I had to hustle for every publication, working my way into magazines you’ll find on real shelves in real stores. None of it was handed to me.

And the hardest part? Staying mentally strong through it all. There were days when the rejection, the negativity, and even my own doubts tried to get the best of me. But I kept pushing because this wasn’t just a job…it was my calling.

Finding the Beauty in People

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned? Every person has something beautiful about them. Part of my job as a photographer is to find it , even when they don’t see it themselves. That’s the secret behind my style of photography.

Whether someone is shy, uncomfortable, or feels they aren’t photogenic, I work to bring out the side of them they didn’t even know was there. Understanding and respecting other people’s vulnerability and boundaries is key!

The Entrepreneurial Grind

Behind every great photo is a photographer who:

Worked long, non-stop hours.

Stayed positive in the face of negativity…even their own.

Managed clients, marketing, finances, and creative work.

Learned to adapt to people from all cultures and languages.

Solved problems under pressure.

If there’s one thing I want people to understand, it’s this: photographers are natural problem solvers.

Bad lighting? We fix it. Last-minute location change? We pivot. Camera glitch? We troubleshoot. Nervous clients? We coach and encourage.

Photographers wear a hundred hats at once. We’re artists, tech experts, marketers, editors, and business owners.

And through it all, we still have to bring a positive attitude and connect with people from all backgrounds, cultures, and languages. Diversity is a beautiful thing. Look at my portfolio and you’ll see!!

Final thoughts Being an entrepreneur and a professional photographer is not for the faint of heart. It’s a wild adventure filled with highs and lows, constant learning, and nonstop hustle. Every day brings a new challenge to solve, whether it’s unpredictable weather during a shoot, last-minute client changes, or learning the latest editing software update overnight. The competition is fierce, and the hours are long. You don’t just clock in and out; you live and breathe your craft. But that’s exactly what makes this journey exciting. There’s no roadmap, no guaranteed path to success, just your determination, grit, and passion to carve out your own lane in a crowded industry.

Yet, despite all the long nights and the rejection, the reward is priceless. There’s nothing like the moment when a client sees their photos for the first time and realizes how beautiful, strong, or joyful they truly are. That moment when their eyes light up and they say, “Wow, that’s really me?”; it makes every setback, every struggle, every sleepless night worth it. Photography is more than pictures; it’s helping people see themselves in a whole new way. And to be trusted with capturing those moments, whether it’s a portrait, a milestone, or a magazine cover, is something I’ll never take for granted.

I know, I know… a lot of you have been wondering, “Where’s Mike? What’s he been up to?” My bad for not keeping you all updated on my latest and greatest adventure…so here it is.

Right now, I’m a full-time student at the University of Maryland Global Campus, working toward my undergraduate degree in Human Resources Management. I worked in HR during my 20+ years in the Marine Corps, so I always believed in keeping things simple, and staying in my lane. I started this journey in August 2024, and if all goes as planned, I’ll be graduating by December. I’m pushing to finish even sooner, but that’s my personal challenge.

Why am I going back to school? 🤔

During my time in the Marines, I was unfortunately discouraged a few times from pursuing education by some superiors and I stayed mission-focused instead.

After my friend’s passing from suicide, I fell into nearly two years of depression and never got around to establishing my business in D.C., Maryland, Virginia (DMV).

I made a promise to my dad that I’d earn my degree before anything happened to him.

Most of all…I’m doing this for ME!!!!!

Through it all, I’ve stayed committed to this goal, and I’m proud to say I’ve been crushing it! I’ve made the Dean’s List for Fall 2024 and Spring 2025, and once I wrap up my undergrad, I’ll be rolling straight into an MBA program.

I appreciate all of you who have followed me through the years. This is just the beginning! In addition to going to school, I’ll only be doing photo shoots for people that I know, or for clients who request me ahead of time.

Hey there, fans, fellow shutterbugs, realtors and home enthusiasts! It's Mike here from MikeCon Photography, and boy, do I have a tale to share today. Grab your favorite beverage and cozy up because this one's about Shayla Chado, the realtor with a heart as big as the Rocky Mountains and a sense of humor that could sell ice to an eskimo...in Alaska.

Picture this: Shayla walks up to the location I was shooting in, and I’ve got my camera in hand, ready to capture the essence for her future listings. From the moment we exchanged greetings, it was like two peas in a pod. You know that feeling when you just click with someone? Well, Shayla and I clicked like the perfect lock on a dream home.

From her infectious laugh to her uncanny ability to find the silver lining in any situation, Shayla's energy was magnetic. It's like she had this aura of positivity that could have made even the dreariest of days feel like a walk in the park. We'd be snapping photos outdoors with the sun beating down and Shayla would crack a joke that had us both doubled over in laughter, forgetting all about the weather, or the sweat dripping down my bald head. She was very patient and positive the entire shoot. This is definitely someone who appreciates being in front of the camera and wants a professional look. Realtors are some of my favorite people to work with because they understand that communication is key to making things go correctly, and the preparation to how things must look in order to market and sell properly.

But Shayla's not just a realtor extraordinaire; she's also a newly-engaged gal with love in her heart and stars in her eyes. I'll never forget the day she showed me the ring her beau had slipped on her finger. The sparkle in her eyes matched the twinkle of that rock, and I knew right then and there that this girl was destined for her own happily ever after. Who knows…maybe I’ll fly back to Colorado and do her wedding photos too. The one thing I know deep in my heart is that her marriage will be awesome because of her faith in God, and her big heart!

Sure, Shayla may be a beginner in the world of real estate, but let me tell you, she's got the drive and determination of a seasoned pro. She tackles every challenge with a can-do attitude and a smile that could light up the Denver skyline. Whether she's negotiating a deal or staging a home, Shayla puts her heart and soul into everything she does, and it shows.

Greetings, fitness fanatics and Star Wars aficionados! First and foremost, I’d like to again wish Alex a very Happy Birthday, and I pray that she enjoyed it to the fullest! Today, I am beyond thrilled to introduce you to the one and only Dr. Alex Paine, the tall, pretty, and hilarious fitness model from the enchanting state of Colorado. As the proud owner of MikeCon Photography, I've had the delightful pleasure of collaborating with Dr. Paine multiple times, and boy, is she a force to be reckoned with in the fitness community!

**A Fit Pro with a Sense of Humor: Meet Dr. Alex Paine**

Dr. Paine is not your run-of-the-mill fitness pro. Besides her jaw-dropping beauty and her impeccable physique, she is an absolute goofball! With a fantastic sense of humor and an unwavering love for Star Wars movies, she brings a nerdy twist to the fitness world, and we just can't get enough of it!

**Boundless Trust and Hilarious Moments**

Now, let me take you back to 2019 when I was getting ready to relocate to Germany. Dr. Paine, being the wonderful human she is, graced us all with her presence at my going-away party. Amidst the farewell tears, she managed to keep us all in stitches with her witty one-liners and contagious laughter. It was then that I realized that beyond being a fitness pro, she was a gem of a friend who brightened every room she entered.

**From Germany to Colorado: A Legendary Photo Shoot**

Fast forward to 2022, I was back in Colorado, and it was time for another memorable collaboration with the fantastic Dr. Alex Paine. Her radiant red hair and quirky charm were as captivating as ever. During the photo shoot, we had a blast capturing her passion for fitness and Star Wars. The shots were nothing short of phenomenal, and her goofy side shone through, adding an unparalleled vibrancy to the images.

**The Trust Game: Dr. Paine and MikeCon Photography**

Dr. Alex Paine is a Doctor of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, and she takes her fitness journey as seriously as her scientific pursuits. She chose MikeCon Photography above all other photographers in the world, and boy, am I honored! Her trust in our team allowed us to create artistic shots that truly showcased her dedication to both fitness and her nerdy passions.

**A Thank You Email from Mama Paine**

But the love and trust don't stop there! Dr. Paine's mother, who also happens to be a bodybuilder, sent me a heartfelt thank-you email for working with her daughter as a professional. Knowing that another photographer had turned her down before, I was determined to make her photo shoot extraordinary. Together, we proved that embracing uniqueness and being a little bit of a nerd can lead to remarkable results.

**MikeCon Photography: Your Go-To Fitness Connection**

Located in the DMV area, we at MikeCon Photography take pride in our ability to travel frequently to Colorado and beyond, connecting with exceptional individuals like Dr. Alex Paine. We're not just photographers; we're storytellers, capturing the essence of each person we work with.

**Join the Fitness Fun: Go Viral with Dr. Alex Paine!**

So, my fellow fitness enthusiasts and Star Wars lovers, get ready to go viral with the one and only Dr. Alex Paine! Follow her fitness journey, be captivated by her infectious sense of humor, and embrace your inner nerd alongside her. Share this blog far and wide, and let's celebrate the incredible impact she's making in the fitness community. Remember, “Sharing is caring!”

And remember, at MikeCon Photography, we're not just creating images; we're capturing the heart and soul of each individual. So whether you're in Colorado, the DMV area, or anywhere in the world, let us tell your story and make your fitness dreams come to life!

Oh my gosh! I almost forgot to mention that Dr. Paine also designs and creates custom bikinis. Feel free to check out her website Xela’s Customs and get yours done today. She can ship all around the world! She has gone above and beyond to ensure that people get exactly what they need, when they need it!

Welcome to the MikeCon Photography blog, where we share captivating stories of our amazing clients and the unforgettable moments we capture through the lens. Today, we have the pleasure of featuring the remarkable Lauren Varner, a talented lawyer based in Colorado. Join us as we delve into her intelligence, professionalism, and undeniable beauty, showcased during a breathtaking fitness photoshoot at the scenic Cherry Creek Reservoir.

Lauren Varner: A Brilliant and Exceptional Client…

…Working with Lauren Varner has been an absolute privilege. Beyond her striking physical appearance, Lauren's intelligence shines through every interaction. As a lawyer at Varner Faddis, her law firm in Colorado, Lauren's sharp legal mind is evident in her attention to detail and meticulous approach to her work. It is truly inspiring to witness her analytical thinking and how she effortlessly balances her professional and personal pursuits.

Gratitude for an Extraordinary Client:

I cannot express enough how grateful I am to have Lauren as a client. Not only did she trust me to capture her fitness journey, but she also honored me by attending my going away party before I relocated to Germany. It speaks volumes about the genuine connection we formed throughout our collaboration. Lauren's warmth, kindness, and support have touched my heart, and I am immensely thankful for her presence in my life.

A Memorable Photoshoot with Lauren and Megan:

During our fitness photoshoot at Cherry Creek Reservoir, Lauren's radiant energy and passion for life were palpable. It was a privilege to do a separate shoot a few months later to capture her alongside her sister Megan, who shares Lauren's remarkable beauty and charisma. Growing up watching "America's Next Top Model," both sisters have developed an innate understanding of the camera, posing effortlessly and exuding confidence like professional models.

Beauty, Swagger, and Authenticity:

Lauren's beauty is simply breathtaking, and her captivating presence rivals any celebrity. Her natural grace and confidence command attention, making her a true standout. While some may compare her to the Kardashian family, Lauren possesses a unique swagger that is entirely her own. She embraces her individuality, radiating authenticity with every click of the camera. It was an absolute pleasure to capture her essence and showcase her inner and outer beauty.

Conclusion:

Lauren Varner's fitness photoshoot at Cherry Creek Reservoir was a remarkable experience that showcased her brilliance, professionalism, and unparalleled beauty. As a lawyer at Varner Faddis, she exemplifies intelligence and excellence in her career. I am immensely grateful for her unwavering support, and it was an honor to capture her journey alongside her sister Megan. Lauren's charm and camera presence, coupled with her unique swagger, truly set her apart. Stay tuned for more incredible stories and captivating moments here at MikeCon Photography!

Most photographers in the world get to shoot with their subjects once or twice in different locations, however I can honestly say that I had the distinct privilege of doing three separate photo shoots, in three different countries with Fitness Pro and now new Mother of a handsome baby boy…Johanna Hess.

How did we get here? Great question! Scroll down and find out!!

As some of you may recall, I did a blog called, “My Lawyer Johanna Hess WBFF Pro Diva”. In there I spoke about how we met, and the two of us shooting at the historic West Bottoms in Kansas City Missouri, and how I had just moved to Germany. Now, years later before our last shoot (maternity) we had spoken and it dawned upon me that Johanna is the only person that I’ve shot with in three different countries. Coincidentally, all three countries are where she has a law degree and can practice law in.

The photos above were taken on our first shoot in Kansas City Missouri in 2017.

Now one thing I learned new about Johanna on our second photo shoot is that she, unlike most people I’ve worked with in the past, is ALWAYS ready. I truly appreciate that. No matter what clothing outfit I had thought of, she had it ready to go in her closet! Her wardrobe could easily be a, “Master Class’ for anyone aspiring to do photo shoots. For a minute, I thought I had walked into Barbie’s closet LOL! That’s what made it easy, besides her always being in great shape for the camera.

The photos above were taken in 2019 in London, England.

For our final shoot in 2021 in Bavaria, Germany we did her maternity photo shoot. I had never shot in Bavaria, but I had visited that region multiple times and had always been struck by all the natural beauty. It’s so simple, elegant and breathtaking that whenever you go there…You KNOW that God is real. When you go, all you can do is submerge yourself into the beauty of the landscape, and having a photo shoot there just made it even better. For those of you that didn’t know, photography is my business, however it’s also my own way of mental therapy and allows me to just reset and find my focus within (pun intended).

In conclusion, I implore all of you, photographers or not, to get out into the world and see all of its beauty. Get out and meet new people, and have some great experiences. Don’t just stay in one place and let the world go on without you experiencing new things. Had I not spoken with Johanna in May of 2016 in the lobby of her WBFF show, we would’ve been total strangers and not have become better friends. Now she’s the Mom to her baby boy Maximilian and the next time we do a photo shoot, I’ll hopefully have the honor and privilege of doing some work with both of them. You see, a lot of my peers feel like all they can do is one thing only. For me, i want to be that photographer for my clients that is trusted to carry on their photos for a lifetime. You’ll never hear me running away from my people. THEY’RE MY TRIBE!!! #TribeMikeCon

The best advice I can ever give anyone is to just be prepared, and communicate heavily with your photographer; especially me. To me, a lack of constant communication is a recipe for disaster, and sometimes disrespectful, because it shows that you aren’t focused on your investment, but more importantly OUR time. As I stated in my last blog titled, “Leap Of Faith”, people tend to let fear overcome them, and I have to ensure that we achieve success.

With all that being said, I finally broke down and decided to open up my playbook on one of my all-time favorite photo shoots. As you can see from all of my previous blogs and postings on social media, I NEVER share my Behind The Scenes (BTS) material because I honestly don’t like being filmed, and I always believe that if someone wants to learn how you do things, they’d pay you for your time. This photo shoot like many needed a lot of coordination because it involved more than just myself and my client. We had to have Body-painter Alisia Silliman (@a.vanlang_couture on Instagram) , and unlike a regular makeup artist, Alisia had to perform a miracle to transform Shannon into the “Disco Ball” concept we dreamt up. If you look, I added videos, and I had to make them 18+ for YouTube because there may or may not be some nudity, and I’m not one for all the drama about a nipple showing, or you getting fired from your job because someone saw a glimpse of a sparkly vulva from my client.

Now I know a lot of you have seen, “body-paint” shoots before, as have I. Most of them I’ve seen have been pretty good. Some of the lighting and shooting techniques have been done, over and over again, and again, so I wanted to just have our shoot look like my own creative technique, and not shoot it with a shallow dept of field. Believe me, that was all in my first paragraph, of the first conversation I had with Shannon. Seeing everyone shooting the same style, or technique just gets lame, and I personally, and professionally do not desire to have my work look like someone/everyone else’s. Hopefully all of this creativity will inspire someone to make some art and remember to, “Go against the grain”.

I know….I know…Here I go again, apologizing for not blogging, and barely keeping an online presence for over a year, however I think a lot of professional business owners were keeping their things down to a crawl, and some just went out of business. I fortunately don’t have the option of shutting down completely, quitting, etc., and if I did, I still wouldn’t because I LOVE photography too much, and my people that I work with.

I’m not a doctor of medicine that specializes in viruses and diseases, a formal scientist, nor will I ever claim to be one. I’m a photographer, and that’s what I’m here to talk about, and that’s what I’ll always focus on. All the other stuff is a distraction from what I want to achieve, and the goals that my clients and I want to achieve. You know…I just hit on something, and it’s overlooked from people a lot of times….GOALS! I give my clients goals, just like they give me. Most times their goal is to achieve a certain weight, or look prior to the shoot, to have a great shoot, and for some it’s to be published in a magazine. I don’t have control over being published, however I’m always going to do my absolute best to make sure we give it our best shot (pun intended).

Some of you have been wondering what I’ve been up to…well…I’ve been doing A LOT of local commercial photography for different industries here in Germany. I’ve also just been on some strict lockdown quarantines by the German government, and I got vaccinated so that way I can travel all around Europe. I’ve been doing a lot of traveling and working with various pro athletes for commercial shoots as well. When I was on lockdown, I internalized myself with my art. I watched a lot of different tutorials on photography, editing, and lighting techniques, because being a photographer is a never ending learning process. I even had a lot of great laughs catching old episodes of Key and Peele. Laughter is great for the soul and when things seem to be dark out there, a good laugh is what I needed; hell, it’s what we all need.

For those of you thinking about coming to Europe, please do so and let’s talk and do something together. I don’t care what country you’re from, all we need is communication and a desire to make something great. Europe’s a great place to do photography in because there’s a plethora of great places to go to for photo shoots. I can get there with the greatest of ease. Oh…did I forget to mention that I’ll be back in the United States in July? I’ll be there for one month to visit in Oregon, Colorado and Georgia. If you desire to do a photo shoot then, please contact me immediately so we can coordinate properly.

“You know, sometimes all you need is twenty seconds of insane courage. Just literally twenty seconds of embarrassing bravery. And I promise you, something great will come of it.”

I’m quoting this because it’s very true. I say this because whenever you’re photographing people in every element that I do, people tend to let fear overcome them. There’s the moment of overcoming the fear and showcasing how fierce they can be is what I love the most. In those brief moment, is where I make my magic.

Most of the people I photograph have rarely been in front of a camera, or are doing a photo shoot for their first time. Part of my job is to help ease those fears and create something for my people. There’s so many things that could go wrong during a photo shoot (i.e. weather, technical issues, and etc.), however I’m constantly working out solutions to ensure success and make sure that we don’t fail our goal.

No matter what the conditions, I’m always going to give whomever is in front of my camera, my absolute best. Most times I just talk with my clients, tell silly jokes, however the biggest of them all is that I listen. I listen to their needs, desires, and goals, that way we can have clarity, laugh and I can capture those moments that make great photos.

Last, but not least…As a photographer, I do things a little different than most photographers you know. I am not afraid of getting into the water, or other elements to get the shot I need for my people. You have to roll your pants up, get your feet wet, and bring forth the essence of your concept. For me, it’s not about just getting the goal, but exceeding it.

Thank you for your time, and don’t forget to look before you leap!

In September 2012, I had just moved to the beautiful state of Colorado after retiring from the Marine Corps. I was living in a hotel, and awaiting to close on my new home. During that time at the hotel, I was trying to meet people in my area, and reached out to another fitness photographer via social media to meet up. That weekend I drove and met up with the other photographer and they were doing high-key, “pin-up” shoots with his clients.

Well…I met one of the young ladies at the photo shoot and shortly later connected to work together, then immediately we grew as friends. Her name is Mandy Martin. Mandy was wearing a, “Sailor” type outfit for her pin-up shoot, and she truly looked the part. The biggest feature that’ll catch your attention with Mandy is her eyes. Besides her goofy sense of humor and her laugh, she’s got these electric blue eyes that make you pay attention to her every word. Oh man, I forgot to mention that Mandy was the first fitness model athlete that I had ever worked with. So big kudos to her contributing to my photography journey for allowing me to develop and grow within my industry. You probably are laughing or wondering why however, when you’re a beginning photographer, NOBODY wants to really work with you; especially on the fitness side of the house. Some folks can really crush your ego with their own. Thankfully Mandy didn’t have that issue.

As I was still a beginner at the time, still learning about lighting, my camera and how to build my business, I had reached out to Mandy to see if she would like to help me develop my lighting skills with a test shoot. She agreed and we did a shoot. The shoot didn’t turn out too bad for a beginner however I won’t be showing those because that would take me digging through my archived images on one of my 12 different hard drives, besides, I want you guys to see where we are now. If you’d like to see those photos, you’ll have to ask Mandy to dig them up. LOL!

Since that first time, we had done a few other shoots whenever I was testing out lighting for something fitness related. Well, this time was completely different and a lot of time had passed, and I had grown as a photographer. Mandy contacted me about hiring me to do an outdoor photo shoot with her, I immediately said, “I have this great spot in mind that I’ve never used with anyone else”! Now I’d be lying if she didn’t hesitate after explaining to her that it was at a skateboard park. The weather was still a bit cold however we kicked it up a notch as the sun came out and BOOM!!! MAGIC!

After our shoot, I asked Mandy if she’d allow me to send them off to potentially be published in a magazine (It’s never guaranteed). She agreed and lo and behold we were approved to be featured in Men’s Muscle & Health Magazine. To them and Mandy, I am forever grateful! Thank you Mandy for having faith and confidence in my abilities. Below I added some addition photos that we’ve taken from some other shoots, please enjoy!

I need to introduce you all to Katy Lute!!! Tomorrow’s her birthday, and it’s rare that I get a chance to have a blog ready to go on someone’s birthday however this one is definitely special to me, so it had to happen! Katy Lute is definitely someone who needs to have her, “fitness journey” story told. I met Katy via social media, and we started talking about doing a photo shoot together, and I saw that she too is a fellow photographer, and actually lived a few streets away from me in Castle Rock, CO. After a few weeks of not hearing back from Katy, I looked on her Facebook and lo and behold, tragedy struck in her family. Immediately, I reached out to Katy to check up on her and to see how her family was doing. We ended up working out a deal and did an amazing photo shoot together along with one of my all-time favorite Makeup Artists, and friend Savannah Appel (IG - @SavageBeautyCO).

It took my breath away when Katy wrote me these kind words in an email: ”Mike,

Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. I feel like I cannot express in words the gratitude I have to you. It makes me so emotional just thinking of what you have done for me. I was a stranger and you can so much compassion for me and my daughter. I am truly floored by what you have done for us. It reminded me of the good Samaritan story, how you did such amazing and kind things to help a me, a stranger, in a time of need. Thank you again for your heart of compassion and generosity. I will treasure these photos for the rest of my life. Your act of kindness is something in my life that will never be forgotten.

Thank you again!

Katy Lute”

Here’s Katy’s story…so please…pay attention!:

Were you athletic in your youth?

I was not active in my youth. I always felt conscious of my body and felt “chubby” growing up. The first time I ever even remember attempting some kind of physical exercise, it was running a distance longer than 1 mile running was at age 17! So, you could say that I found exercise at age 17. It started with simple morning jogs to try to “stay skinny” as my 17 year old brain thought. Over the years, I became more and more interested in fitness, and ended up majoring in Health and Fitness in college. For many years, I was a runner. I ran 13 half marathon races over the course of many years. This was the fitness lifestyle I lived until 2016, when I threw in the towel on the cardio lifestyle and switched to a strength training lifestyle complete with protein, heavy weights and muscle.

Describe your life before you started training.

As a young person and as a child, I was out of shape and didn’t like how exercise felt in my body. It felt uncomfortable, so I just avoided exercise altogether. I later became a runner for the beginning of my adult life. After becoming a mom of two kids, I felt like running was not helping me achieve my ideal physique goals anymore. One day, I decided to completely overhaul my fitness approach and took my emphasis away from cardio and tried weight lifting. Weight training has helped my body transform from overweight to lean and mean with muscle definition. Weight training has completely changed my life. I will never turn back. I have been weight training for 3.5 years.

Was there a pivotal moment that motivated you to start training? If so, what was it?

When I was about 8 months postpartum with my second baby, my body felt and looked awful. I was so uncomfortable. I hated the way I felt. It’s hard to admit this: but because my body felt so uncomfortable, I felt like my self esteem was low and that it negatively affected my ability to be a good mom and a good wife. How I felt in my body sadly affected everything in my life. At that time in 2016, I had just trained for, and ran, 2 half marathon races back to back, but yet I still hadn’t achieved my goal weight, size or shape. This was a pivotal point for me to stop what I was doing and completely overhaul and try a new approach to fitness. Enter weight training. BAM, life change!

What were some of your athletic accomplishments?

-I ran 13 half marathons before finding weight training.

-I can deadlift 225 pounds.

-I can squat 185 lbs.

-I can bench 95 lbs.

(I expect all of those PRs (personal records) to increase in weight with time.)

When did you start working out and what inspired you to do so?

My current fitness journey began at age 30. I was 8 months postpartum with my second child and my body felt awful. I hated living in that body. It felt terrible and it affected how I felt in life. I decided to try lifting weights. The approach I started with was found in the Body For Life book I found stashed in an old box from college. That first 12 weeks of following Bill Phillips’ plan completely changed my body. I have never looked back from weight training and tracking my diet. While I no longer following the exact Body For Life plan, I still attribute so much of my successes to that book.

Who is your role model? Why?

My husband is my role model. It may sound cheesy to choose him, but he inspires me to be and live better every day. He is such a loving person, a stand-up dad, and a hard worker.

Are you more of a cardio woman or a weights gal? Why?

I am a whole hearted weights gal! The cardio bunny days are over. I am all about lifting heavy weights and sculpting a beautiful physique with muscle.

What is your favorite cheat food? How often do you indulge?

My favorite cheat food is ice cream and pizza. I eat ice cream regularly as part of my balanced lifestyle. As long as the calories fit, I can eat it. Pizza is something I eat less frequently, probably two times a month.

What is your favorite non-cheat food?

Fruits! I love the taste of all fruits. Strawberries, blueberries & cherries top the charts.

What is your favorite training move? Why?

Sumo deadlifts are my favorite exercise. I enjoy the movement as well as I feel that deadlifts are the #1 exercise that has transformed my entire physique. 

What is your workout plan like?

I train 6 days per week. Three leg days: 1 heavy squats day, 1 heavy deadlifts day, 1 high volume day. I train upper body three days a week: 1 shoulder focused day, 1 back focused day, and 1 general upper body day. My cardio looks like: 10 min easy warmup before lifting legs. On upper days, I do 15-20 minutes HIIT cardio, which is usually sprint intervals on the treadmill.

What time of day do you workout and why?

I generally workout mid morning, as it works best for my schedule as a mom, as well as that time of day I have the most energy to put towards my training. Early morning workouts are too hard for me as I am not yet awake enough. Evening workouts are also hard because I’m so full of food at that point. Mid morning is best for me!

What celebrity are you told you most look like (if applicable)?

I have always been told I resemble actress Kate Bosworth (from the movie Blue Crush).

What do you love most about living in the U.S.?

I love living in the U.S. because I have so many freedoms to live as I please. I love Colorado because it’s a beautiful and sunshine-filled state.

Where in the world would you like to travel to the most?

I would love to travel anywhere that has a beach and a cabana for me to lie under.

Where do you work out (home, gym, studio, community center, etc.)?

I train in the gym. I need a lot of access to free weights, specifically barbells & weight plates.

Do you prefer training alone or with a buddy and why?

I prefer training solo. My workout it my alone time to zone out and work hard. Training with a buddy throws me off. I do find that working out in the presence of others who are also training hard is very stimulating to me. It pushes me to see others hitting it hard.

What's your favorite type of cardio?

I don’t really “like” cardio, but if I had to choose, I enjoy interval sprints. 

What's your best fitness tip (this could be related to training, nutrition, personal attitude, fitness gear, etc.)?

My best fitness tip is to find your “WHY” first. Without a true reason or a “why”, you will likely always give up. The “why” keeps you going.

What gets you pumped up the most right before a workout?

Preworkout! I like PEScience High Volume, as it’s a caffeine free preworkout that gives good pumps.

How do you balance career/school/family and fitness?

As a mom of two kids, it is a battle to juggle a schedule that actually includes time for myself. As a mom, you definitely have to put your own name on the list of priorities. I make the gym and my nutrition a priority, so the gym happens early in the day before life gets too chaotic later in the day. Thank goodness for kids club at the gym!

Do you have a favorite quote that inspires you and why? 

Joshua 1:9: “Be strong and courageous.”

Have you ever competed and if so, how long have you been competing? 

Competing just isn’t for me! I admire those who do compete. For me, I enjoy the lifestyle approach.

What would you like to see change in the health and fitness industry?

I think it’s already shifting this way: but I’d love to continue seeing women empowered to train hard and with heavy weights. No more fear of “getting bulky” and just going for that strong and muscular lifestyle! Muscles and booty’s are in!

What do you wish you had known when you were 16?

Stop caring what other people think, and just do what makes you happy!

How do you relax when you’re not working out?

Netflix.

Do you have any hobbies?

Before I became a mom, I used to ski obsessively! Now, it’s a time or two each season.

What do you always take with you to the gym (list 1–3 items)?

Headphones & music

Hip thrust sponge pad

Weight belt 

What is your favorite book and why?

The Bible. It’s God’s word and has changed and transformed my life from the inside out.

What is the last movie you saw?

Frozen II at the theater with my two daughters.

What is your best beauty secret?

Stay out of the sun! Sunless tanner is your friend.

What music do you listen to when you work out? Why?

It varies from worship music (Red Rocks Worship, Elevation Worship, etc) to the Top 40 pop to 80’s rock ballads.

What piece of advice would you give to a newbie in the gym?

Stop prioritizing cardio and get in the weight room. Lifting weights + proper diet will CHANGE your body!

What is your favorite physical feature and why?

I like my smile.

What is your least favorite physical feature and why?

I don’t believe it is good to pick apart our flaws! Flaws are what make us unique in our beauty.

Who has supported you the most throughout your fitness journey?

My husband, Eric. When I decided to first make this huge lifestyle change, I humbly asked him to join me for the first 12 weeks. Once we had both reached that 12 week mark, we realized there was no looking back for us. He has continually been my cheerleader, supporter, as well as motivator throughout the years. He himself has transformed his own body and has gained so much strength and muscle. I admire his own fire and dedication!

What are your big plans for the future?

Continue being a mom and wife. Continue training hard. Keep growing the glutes!

On that last set that is so tough that you just want to quit, what is the image or voice that drives you to push yourself one step further?

The image that drives me to push further is the visual of how my body looked and felt right before I started lifting weights. I was so uncomfortable with how I looked and felt. That image of that girl drives me to push harder. I never want to feel like that again.

Is there anything else you want to let us know about? Tell us!

I am just a regular girl, with normal husband and normal kids, just an everyday mom who could have just easily accepted my unfit and overweight body. But I didn’t. I did it! I made changes and I changed my situation. I changed my body and made myself proud. It was HARD to initially make those big changes, but I DID IT! I do not have the best genetics, or the most motivation in the world. I took things one day at a time and I gave it my best effort. If I can do it, anyone can do it. I hope to inspire the other “every day normal moms” to stop cutting yourself short in life. You CAN do it, and I am your proof!

Please list your social media and how people can find and follow you: Instagram: @KatyLuteFit

Thank you Katy for sharing your inspiring and motivating words. Have a very happy birthday and stay blessed my friend! I’ll definitely be making my own fitness journey soon enough, so thank you!!!