JENNIFER MCFARLAND
FROM SHY & INSECURE…
TO SEXY, OUTGOING
IPL BIKINI MODEL PRO!
PROFESSIONAL PHOTOS BY BEN YOSEF
In this inspiring feature, we chat with Jennifer McFarland, a true embodiment of transformation, as she opens up about her journey from being a shy and insecure individual to becoming an IPL Bikini Model Pro. With a deep commitment to health, fitness, and self-love, Jennifer shares the pivotal moment that changed her life—recognizing the importance of setting a good example for her children. Through hard work, dedication, and invaluable support from family, friends, and mentors, Jennifer not only conquered her personal hurdles but also stepped confidently into the spotlight.
"The turning point for me was recognizing the importance of my health and wanting to set a good example for my children."
INSPIRE MAGAZINE: Hi Jennifer! Welcome to INSPIRE Magazine! You were amazing at the IPL Southwest Grand Prix contest last month! You’ve come a long way from being shy and insecure to becoming an IPL Bikini Model Pro. What was the turning point in your life that set you on this path?
JENNIFER MCFARLAND: Thank you so much! The turning point for me was recognizing the importance of my health and wanting to set a good example for my children. I realized that placing physical fitness as a priority not only benefits me but also inspires my children to lead healthy lives. I was starting to overeat in 2024. I gained 12lbs from emotional eating. I knew I wanted to prevent from getting overweight and protect the health of my organs, so I signed up for my first fitness competition in the spring of 2024 and hired a trainer. I went to the gym 4-6 days a week for three months during the summer.
The competition was towards the end of the summer, and I placed very well. I am glad that I made the decision to prioritize my health. There are many goals in life, but I truly believe that physical fitness should be one of the top ones and you can see and feel the difference. My advice is to not be intimidated by the gym. I was at first and realized it’s no big deal.
"I consider myself an ambivert, which means I have a blend of both reserved and outgoing traits."
INSPIRE: Can you share a specific moment or experience that helped you build the confidence needed to step into the spotlight on the IPL stage?
JENNIFER: One thing that has helped me build my confidence for the IPL stage is my experience as a runway model for fashion designers, along with my experience in pageantry. Walking the runway with hundreds of people looking at not only the outfit but myself taught me to be aware of my every move while showcasing the garments. Pageantry further refined my poise and stage presence, helping me connect with the audience. Both experiences ultimately prepared me for stepping into the spotlight at the IPL.
INSPIRE: Transitioning from a reserved personality to being more outgoing must have had its challenges. What were some of the biggest hurdles you faced, and how did you overcome them?
JENNIFER: I consider myself an ambivert, which means I have a blend of both reserved and outgoing traits. My Mom always taught me to be kind to everyone I meet even if that means being nice at first and then keep my distance if the person has behavior that doesn’t align with what I agree with. Her guidance instilled in me the confidence to connect with others, and I will always cherish that lesson. May she rest in peace. I love you, Mom.
"Prioritizing self-care and mental well-being allows us to truly enjoy our time on Earth and focus on the good moments in our lives."
INSPIRE: What role did self-care and mental health play in your transformation, and do you have any practices that have been particularly helpful for you?
JENNIFER: Self-care and mental health have played a crucial role in my transformation. I enjoy hot baths, meditation, and exercise, which help me recharge. I also believe in the value of talk therapy, whether it’s with a counselor, family, or friends. Listening to music and dancing, socializing, and ensuring I get a good night’s sleep are all essential practices. Additionally, enjoying a yummy meal whether it’s homemade, dine-in, or take-out can significantly boost my mood and morale. I also like to create new goals and stay busy while making time to relax. Prioritizing self-care and mental well-being allows us to truly enjoy our time on Earth and focus on the good moments in our lives.
INSPIRE: Many people find it difficult to embrace their sexuality and confidence publicly. What advice would you give to someone struggling with self-acceptance and self-love?
"Genuine confidence is derived from within, and when you embrace and love yourself, it becomes much easier to express your authentic self."
JENNIFER: Embracing your sexuality and confidence can take time and patience, and it’s okay to navigate this journey at your own pace. If you’re struggling with self-acceptance and self-love, which we all experience at some point, my advice is to focus on what truly makes you happy and fulfilled, as long as it’s moral, ethical, legal, and practical.
Self-acceptance begins with acknowledging your value and putting your happiness first. Seek out supportive individuals who encourage you and release any negative judgments. Genuine confidence is derived from within, and when you embrace and love yourself, it becomes much easier to express your authentic self.
INSPIRE: What was your support system like during your transformation? Were there any key people who played a significant role in your journey?
JENNIFER: My support system consists of my children, family, and friends, all of whom play a vital role in my transformation. During the summer of 2024, my trainer at the local gym was instrumental in helping me achieve my fitness goals. Then, in the fall of 2024, my coach, Leann Kelly, provided invaluable guidance as I prepared for the fall competition. Additionally, Ben Yosef, the President, and Founder of the IPL, significantly impacted my journey with his encouraging words and positive energy that helped reshape my mindset. Most importantly, my faith in God provided me with strength and support throughout this process. As a Christian, I cherish my relationship with God, which has been a foundational element of my journey.
INSPIRE: Looking back, are there any misconceptions or stereotypes about sexy, confident women that you’d like to address or clarify?
"People often mistakenly associate sexiness with being overly provocative or focused solely on physical appearance. But it’s essential to recognize that sexiness encompasses qualities like intelligence, strength, and compassion."
JENNIFER: There are many misconceptions about sexy, confident women that I’d like to clarify. A common stereotype is that these women are self-absorbed or superficial, when, in reality, true confidence arises from an authentic sense of self-worth. People often mistakenly associate sexiness with being overly provocative or focused solely on physical appearance, but it’s essential to recognize that sexiness encompasses qualities like intelligence, strength, and compassion.
Additionally, it’s important for women to understand the distinction between being sexy and being classy, versus crossing the line into territory that is not seen as classy. Embracing a sexy image shouldn’t mean compromising self-respect or dignity. Instead, it should involve celebrating femininity while maintaining elegance and sophistication.
Society frequently suggests that women should downplay their confidence to be more relatable or likable, but being confident with ourselves should never be viewed as a negative trait. It is crucial to challenge these stereotypes and realize that confident women can be multifaceted, nurturing, and powerful, each defining their own version of what it means to be sexy and confident.
"I aim to keep evolving and inspiring others by maintaining a growth mindset. I want to lead by example..."
INSPIRE: What are your future goals, both within the IPL and beyond?
JENNIFER: My future goals, both within the IPL and beyond, revolve around personal health and competitive excellence. I aim to exercise more consistently, adopt a healthier diet, prioritize better sleep, and incorporate regular stretching into my routine. Additionally, I am excited about the prospect of competing again on the IPL stage. I look forward to challenging myself and improving my performance.
INSPIRE: Finally, how do you plan to continue evolving and inspiring others?
JENNIFER: I aim to keep evolving and inspiring others by maintaining a growth mindset. I want to lead by example by learning new exercises and embracing healthier habits. I also plan on creating a new social media profile dedicated to fitness. On this platform, I will share exercise pictures and videos to motivate people to embrace an active lifestyle. By showcasing my own journey and providing tips, I hope to encourage others to incorporate fitness into their daily routines and realize that they, too, can achieve their goals. It could also be a supportive community where people can connect, share their stories, lift each other up and inspire one another to strive for better health and well-being. INSPIRE
More Jennifer McFarland
INSPIRE Magazine: Jennifer McFarland From Shy & Insecure…To Sexy, Outgoing IPL Bikini Model Pro!
“The turning point for me was recognizing the importance of my health and wanting to set a good example for my children.”
New IPL Pro Jennifer McFarland Lands Cover Of VIGOROUS Magazine
“It was an unforgettable experience to compete in my first fitness competition at 9th Annual IPL Southwest Grand Prix. This achievement is not just a personal milestone, but a profound opportunity to inspire and motivate others to take charge of their well-being through exercise, positive thinking, and a healthy lifestyle. I am immensely grateful to IPL and VIGOROUS Magazine for providing me with this platform to amplify my message and connect with so many wonderful people.”
More From INSPIRE Fall 2024 Issue
INSPIRE Magazine Cover Story: The Epitome Of Inspiration! New IPL Pro Adrienne Akinsete Is 68!
“…a healthy lifestyle can lead to profound changes, both physically and mentally. By sharing my story, I hope to inspire others to embark on their own journeys toward health and wellness, proving that it’s never too late to start living your best life.”
INSPIRE Magazine – Mindful Eating: How to Transform Your Relationship With Food
By cultivating awareness around our eating habits, we can transform our relationship with food from one of guilt and anxiety to one of joy and nourishment.
INSPIRE Magazine: What Our Spring 2024 Cover Girl IPL Pro Deanna Faulkner Is Up To Now
“You have to know how to tune out the negativity, not just from the outside but within your own mind. You have to have the drive to see it through to the end. Even when you are tired, and sore, and want to throw in the towel.”
INSPIRE Magazine: Holistic Approaches To Chronic Pain
If you’ve ever felt like you’ve exhausted all the conventional options, this exploration of holistic strategies might offer a refreshing new perspective.
INSPIRE Magazine: Jennifer McFarland From Shy & Insecure…To Sexy, Outgoing IPL Bikini Model Pro!
“The turning point for me was recognizing the importance of my health and wanting to set a good example for my children.”
New IPL Pro Adrienne Akinsete Lands Cover Of INSPIRE Magazine
“I am incredibly honored to grace the cover of INSPIRE Magazine, and I want to take a moment to highlight the significance of the International Physique League in the realm of natural bodybuilding. This journey has not only allowed me to gain professional status with the IPL, but has also ushered in a vibrant retirement lifestyle that I never imagined possible.”
More From INSPIRE Magazine
INSPIRE Magazine – Janet Garcia’s Amazing Weight Loss & Lifestyle Transformation
“…I decided to start somewhere with hope, belief and a big smile on my face, because I knew this was going to be a ride!”
INSPIRE Magazine: Betsy Brown – 50s Are The New 20s!
“I made a commitment at 53, that by 54 I would be back to the weight I was in my 20s! Well, here I am. I hit my goal weight for this show!”
New IPL Men’s Athletic Masters Pro Patrick Curtis Lands Cover Of INSPIRE Magazine!
“Today, as I stand on the cover of INSPIRE Magazine, I am humbled and grateful for the opportunity to share my story. I am deeply thankful to the IPL for providing a platform to amplify my voice, allowing me to inspire others by proving that transformation is within reach for anyone who dares to believe.”