Olivia's biggest motivation for going on the show was being diagnosed with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and being told she would likely never have children if she didn't lose weight. As an opera singer, she was also tired of losing coveted roles to people who looked healthier - it wasn't enough to just have a great voice. Olivia was born in Pascagoula, Mississippi, and raised in Houston, Texas, the oldest of four children. She received a degree in vocal performance at the University of Alabama, and master's degrees in vocal performance and opera performance from the New England Conservatory of Music. She was overweight in junior high school, but was athletic throughout her school years until she reached college and decided to focus on music. A poor diet and no exercise led to her obesity, and the weight gain continued as she was diagnosed with PCOS when says she "completely gave up." Now 261 pounds and married for 12 years, 35-year-old Olivia was inspired by Season 7 finalist Tara Costa and looks forward to becoming a runner and running in Central Park once she loses the weight.