I’m Vaughan, a Bodybuilding and Nutrition coach for TAF.

In middle school I grew up in what I would call not the most positive social circle, often doing things that weren’t in my best interest. Often doing what was easiest to fly under the radar. Sometimes these choices lead me down some of what I’ll call, less than ideal life decisions and situations. Ultimately just floating through life directionless. Eventually one of my friends took me to the gym. Where I met the owner, which to say to the least, was life changing for me, and ultimately changed the trajectory for my life.

I immediately fell in love with the constant chase of pushing your body and your mind. For no other reason than personal satisfaction and growth. I was hooked. I began prepping my meals and putting on a decent amount of muscle for a novice lifter. A lot of my life has been turbulent to say the least. Life is chaos, you can’t control it, but what I found was, what I could control was what happened in the gym – my decisions allowed me to continue to make progress daily. Ultimately my passion in fitness was a driving force, sending me down the path of my current career being a police officer.

I’ve been training for 10 years and only continue to become more invested, digging into hypertrophy case studies.

I competed in my first bodybuilding show in 2018 and secured a second place standing at the Leigh Brandt Muscle Classic. Now I’ll be competing in my first Natural competition in May 2025, and am the hungriest I have ever been. The goal of pursuing my pro card within the WNBF, has ignited a level of confidence I never thought I would have.

My love for helping people can only go so far within my career, yet I always felt a part of me was missing – which I know is elevating others to help them realize how strong and great they truly are. I believe if you allow yourself to shed the negative self-talk that many of us struggle with, you can become greatness.

I understand the difficulties that life can present everyone with. However, what I can offer is a voice of positive reinforcement, realistic expectations with your health and fitness goals, and be someone that will keep you accountable to not give up on yourself. Chances are if you’re making training or nutritional mistakes – I’ve made them and learned from them. Chances are if you’ve experienced your pivotal moment, and know you need help and guidance, I’ve also been there. The time is now to become greatness.