Jodi, thanks for the "heads-up" on all-natural NPC Figure competitor, and mother, Jeanette Freed. So, below is Isaac Hinds interview with Jeanette (and some more pics.). Quite an accomplished woman!
Isaac Hinds interview of Jeanette...
If you didn't know any better you might think she's been competing for years. She has great stage presence, an incredible physique and a smile that will light up any room. Who dat? Well that would be the New Yorker taking the figure stages by storm this year, Jeanette Freed.
Consistently at the top of every show she's been in Jeanette is still on the hunt for the waskily lil pro card. Yes, yes that was my Elmer Fudd voice. Don't worry your little heads kids, cause this woman is a class act. She's had a few disappointments, but you won't hear her complaining about it. Enough of my ramblings, let's get to know a bit about Jeanette.
[ Q ] Name:
Jeanette Freed
[ Q ] Nickname:
Jeany
[ Q ] Currently live in:
Brooklyn, NY
[ Q ] Always been a New Yorker?
Yes
[ Q ] Who/what is Dolphin Fitness?
Dolphin Fitness is large chain of health clubs throughout the New York Metropolitan area owned by a former pro football athlete, Andrew Carino. His gyms have everything you could possibly need to work out and most of them are open 24 hours which is a plus for me since I have a crazy schedule.
[ Q ] You've only been competing for 2 years ? what? Are you for real?
My first show was last year in March 2003 at the New York Mets. I placed 2nd and I was addicted ever since.
[ Q ] That's awesome... how did you get into competing in NPC Figure?
I went to see a few shows run by Bev Francis and Steve Weinberger in NY. I thought "wow" these girls look great and their so disciplined. My brother Pete was with me and he kept on encouraging me to try to compete in one the local shows.
I wanted to but kept making excuses because I didn't know how to train for the show or how to diet for it. I was already in pretty good shape and worked out occasionally so one day I pulled out a competition diet from Oxygen, stuck to it religiosly for 7 weeks, trained myself intensely and finally got my butt up on that stage. Till today that has been the most rewarding show for me. I stuck to something and actually finished it. That was my goal and to have placed 2nd was just icing on the cake for me.
[ Q ] You competed in a number of shows this past year always placing high, what was your favorite show from 2004?
Well I guess I answered that question already but I have to say all the shows have been a learning experience for me. I always see how my body changes and what I could do to improve for the next show. I really enjoyed competing in Chicago. I met so many nice and interesting girls backstage and the show ran so smoothly.
[ Q ] Do you find it difficult to hold your conditioning throughout the year and doing so many shows?
Because I have done 8 shows in 17 months, it feels like I've been dieting most of that time. I have stayed close to my competition weight most of the time. I am looking forward to the off-season where I can really make the improvements I need too. It's hard to make improvements when you're always getting ready for a show.
[ Q ] Okay, so everyone wants to know... what's your thoughts on Figure Nationals and coming up one place shy of a pro card?
In Chicago I came up one place shy of a pro card so I was familiar with the feeling. I was just so happy to place the way I did in that show. In New York however I honestly have to say that I was confused and disappointed. I never go into a show expecting to win, I just have faith that all my hard work and dedication will pay off and I'll get the placing I deserve.
However, I'm also a big believer in that everything happens for a reason. It wasn't my time and I have to look at the whole picture. I have had an incredible year and have been blessed with the ability to compete and do very well.
There are victories in your life and their are disappointments, you just have to take them both in stride. The important lesson is that you don't let the disappointments kill your dreams and aspirations. They should make you stronger; not weaker.
[ Q ] Many people at the show and on the message boards thought you got royally hosed on placing 3rd at this year's Figure Nationals. Now that the show has come and gone, what's your thoughts on how it went?
It really means a lot to me that so many people had such positive input . It helps so much to hear and get e-mails from other competitors, photographers and friends showing me support and taking time out just to tell me to keep my head up. That's more than I ever expected. Thanks everyone.
[ Q ] What's the next show on the horizon?
Believe it or not I am doing the North Americans next week, September 4th, in Ohio. I figured it's the last show of the year and I'm already in competition form. You can't knock me down that easily.
[ Q ] How long have you been training with John Scoma?
I have been training with John since May 2003. I have to say he is an incredible trainer, motivator and friend. He gives me that extra push I need at times and has helped me believe in myself as a competitor. He also kicks my butt in the gym.
[ Q ] You have a 3 year old daughter, right?
Yes, Briana, she is the best thing that has ever happened to me.
[ Q ] What do you do in your spare time when you're not competing?
I train, take care of my daughter, cook a lot of healthy meals for my husband and I and try to enjoy and be grateful for my beautiful family.
[ Q ] What do you have to say to the women out there who say they can't compete or even train for that matter, because they have a lil one?
I have to say, "Don't ever rule anything out" Prioritze your time and try not to make excuses. If you really want something you can attain it with faith, hard work and dedication. Good things don't always come easy but they sure are rewarding.
[ Q ] As many of the people reading this would certainly agree, you're a beautiful woman. Have you done any modeling?
This is all new to me. I would love to do some modeling.
[ Q ] The bigger question all the boys want to know... are you available?
I am married to a very supportive man. His name is Evan and he is very excited about how competing is going for me. He thinks it's great that I'm so happy and motivated by it.
[ Q ] Sorry for the side track, had to make sure all the lads out there knew not to get their hopes up.
That's very flattering, thanks.
[ Q ] Did you get your Cinnamon rolls after your last show?
Absolutely, not to mention I also had pizza and chocolate cake.
[ Q ] Silliest thing you've been asked or told from someone online?
Not online but guys will ask, "Excuse me but do you workout."
[ Q ] What are you going to be working on before your next competition? Goals for the next year?
Working on developing my hamstrings and shoulders, competing, modeling, getting endorsed and enjoying all of it.
[ Q ] Aside from Dolphin Fitness are you sponsored by anyone?
No, but I would love to be. Ha Ha.
[ Q ] Web site?
Definitely have to work on that this year as well.
[ Q ] Thanks so much Jeanette! Anything else you'd like to share?
Thanks you for taking the time out to interview me and I look forward to great things happening in 2005. Thanks everyone that has e-mailed me and God Bless.
Thanks again and best wishes to you and your family. Kick some booty at your next show and we'll all be routing for you to be on the Figure Pro stage soon.
