Natalie Hays did what no natural bodybuilder has ever done before. Not only did she win her OCB pro card, to then go on and win the Yorton Cup pro title, but she also then won the Ms. America pro title, and then the WNBF Amateur World title to secure her WNBF pro card…but not satisfied, the next day she competed in the WNBF Pro Worlds, and won the professional women’s bodybuilding title as well. Without any qualifiers, this series of wins at the biggest shows in natural bodybuilding is unprecedented and downright incredible. But, consider that she did this in her very first season competing! In this episode the Erics sit down with Natalie to talk through her historic competitive season and learn just how unique she is, both in her psychology and relentless dedication to her craft, but also in her physiology. Further, like other young champions of late, we learn how she was patient in her decision to eventually step on stage, and was awarded immensely. This is not one to miss for bodybuilding fans!

00:00 We got the intro right and introducing Natalie

Iron Culture Ep. 253- 2023 Lightweight WNBF Pro World Champion Dirk Emmerich https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cGapMQFeznA

05:39 Natalie’s prep and first show experience

22:34 Moving into the natural circuit

27:05 Judging criteria and expectations

36:51 Comparing the atmosphere of shows 

50:14 Finishing the season and obsessing over bodybuilding

1:00:01 Reflecting on the moments

1:09:14 WNBF Worlds

1:17:56 Self-coaching

1:23:36 Being ready to compete and embracing the lifestyle

1:38:30 Getting on-stage and knowing if bodybuilding is for you

1:42:48 Competing in the Natural Olympia, what’s next for Natalie and where to find her

Instagram: @nph_fit https://www.instagram.com/nph_fit

YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@nataliehays5037