What happens when the woman teaching confidence is quietly battling depression behind the scenes?

In this raw, powerful episode, I sit down with Maheen Bhutta, founder of International Posing Academy, client and dear friend to uncover the reality behind the brand.

She may be the bright light leading an entire generation of bikini competitors, but for the first time, Maheen opens up about the moments that nearly broke her: being hospitalised during one of IPA’s most successful weeks, losing touch with herself, and questioning her self-worth while running an international business.

We talk about:

• What it’s like to feel completely alone while being surrounded by people

• The pressure to be “the strong one” as a leader and older sibling

• How she reconnected with her passion and identity after losing it

• Building a community you always wished you had

• The identity crisis of business owners: who are you without your brand?

This episode is for every high-achieving woman who’s silently struggling, for every coach who’s held space for others while crumbling inside — and for anyone who needs a reminder that you’re allowed to take off the mask.

💌 Follow IPA on Instagram @internationalposingacademy and find Maheen on Instagram @theflowposingcoach
🧠 Listen, tag us, and share if this hit home. We see you.

Please note the podcast name was changed after time of recording. Find us

🎙️ @thebetterstandardpodcast