Monique Cormier, who has overcome obesity and severe depression en route to becoming a world class amateur bodybuilder, joins Dave [ ... ]
Spotlight On NPC Bikini Competitor: Leslie Barnett
Category you compete in: Bikini
Date of birth: June 8th, 1982
Hometown: Portland, OR. Currently residing in Coeur D’ Alene, Idaho
Career: Respiratory Therapist
What is your favorite childhood memory? When I was a teenager, my dad and his girlfriend would pack six kids in a van and drive down to Pismo Beach, CA. We would spend the week camping, surfing and going to all of the theme parks. We have so many great videos of all of us being crazy, like having a contest to see how many vanilla wafers we could fit in our mouths or all of us quoting Beavis and Butthead (since they were very popular at that time). So many great memories, I wouldn’t trade them for the world.
Name a song that motivates you.
“Get Thru This” by the Art of Dying. The few words in the song are, “If you can get through this, you can get through anything”. It’s a great workout song, especially when you are tired 
and want to quit. It just reminds me that I can keep pushing and that I am so much stronger than I think I am.
What is your biggest gym pet peeve? My biggest gym pet peeve is when people use the stairmill and sweat like a mofo, then leave a lake of sweat everywhere and don't clean it up. It’s just so wrong!!!
How do you like to reward yourself? Not gonna lie, a good cheat meal (like pizza or a burger) every now and then, is amazing! I also reward myself with some smoking new workout clothes when I feel like I’ve hit a new best.
If you could change one thing about the world what would it be?
World Peace!! Hahaha! Just kidding. I would say to find a cure for cancer and cystic fibrosis. They are both such awful diseases that take so many amazing children and adults’ lives. In my line of work, I have seen way to many precious souls suffer.
What do you do right before you step onstage?
Right before I go onstage, I try to visualize how I’m going to present myself to the judges. That way I am less nervous and go out there with confidence. It helps me not trip and fall on my face. I am such a clumsy person.
Nook, Book or Kindle?
IPad, all the way. I love having everything all on one device. It’s so convenient. Although, I do have to admit that I really miss the smell and feel of a real book.
Competition history:
In 2011, I decided to try out competing in the newer bikini division. I entered my first show, to just get in shape and lose some weight. I lost 30 pounds to compete in my first show and placed fourth. Since then I have become hooked to competing and the bodybuilding way of life. I love being fit and helping others on their own journey of fitness.
2011:
Tanji Johnson Classic, bikini D 4th place
Empire Classic, bikini C 2nd place
Washington Ironman, bikini D 3rd place
Night of Champions, Overall winner 
gtff
2012:
Tanji Johnson Classic, bikini D 1st place
Emerald Cup, bikini E 1st place
IFBB North Americans, bikini D 16th
2013:
Emerald Cup, bikini D 5th place
Next competition: Next two competitions are some biggies, Jr Nationals and Team Universe.
If someone followed you for the day what would they be most surprised about?
If someone followed me around for the day, they would find out that I am a little bit of a geek at heart. I love to watch The Big Bang Theory and I love Sci-fi and fantasy movie, shows, and books. I also married a total techie, who is slowly turning me into one. Our house is full of every new electronic and gaming system imaginable.
What is your preferred tanning product and why? I really love Pro Tan products. Since it’s a stain, it stays on so nicely and you don’t have as many problems with running and spots.
Favorite Quote:
The difference between who you are and who you want to be is what you do. And what you need to do in order to get there may not be pretty or come easy, but will be worth it. – Shannon Dey
Who would you like to thank?
I would like to thank my amazing husband Jeremy Barnett, 
for always being there to support, encourage and love me. Even when I’m crazy!! I couldn’t do it without him, he is my rock! Also, all my family and friends for supporting me and being so understanding. Especially my mom, she is always there to listen to me. I would also like to thank Shannon Dey and all the other Team Bombshell coaches for a great two years and getting me to this point. And CJ Harris from CJ’s Body Management for bringing me into the goal line and knowing what my body needed. He’s been amazing!!
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