NLP691 - The Power of Connection and Community

In this episode of The Next Level Health & Business Podcast, Brad Jensen and Craig Smith dive into the deep importance of connection, community, and surrounding yourself with like-minded people. We kick things off by recapping the recent Next Level Experience annual in-person retreat—an unforgettable weekend full of breakthroughs, vulnerability, and real connection. Craig shares what it was like to speak at the event and why the energy in that room was something you can’t put into words. From there, the conversation unfolds in a lot of powerful directions—personal growth, leveling up, the impact of environment, and how being in proximity to the right people can shift everything. At the end of the day, it all circles back to this: you can’t grow alone—and you’re not meant to. If you’ve been feeling stuck, isolated, or like you’re doing this journey solo, this episode is your reminder to find your people—or create that space yourself.   Free Guides: Eating Out Guide - Get The Guide Hight Protein Fast Food Orders - Get the Guide Macro Food Options Guide - Get The Guide   Join Us On Patreon - Join Here   Submit your questions to be featured on our Q&A episodes.   Order from Cured Supplement Order from Legion Supplements and get 20% off your first order by using discount code: keynutrition   Connect with us on Instagram Host Brad Jensen – @thesoberbodybuilder Co-Host Craig Smith - @greatestdaymindset Next Level Nutrition – @mynextlevelnutrition

In this short solo episode, Brad delivers 10 minutes of straight fire on one of the biggest roadblocks to success—quitting when things get hard. He brings it back to one of the core teachings from The Four Agreements, especially the one that’s most misunderstood: “Always do your best.” But here’s the kicker… Your best doesn’t mean your best ever. It means the best you can do today. And that will look different on a Monday after a full night of sleep versus a Thursday when life is chaos. Brad challenges you to stop falling into the all-or-nothing trap and start owning what “doing your best” looks like for you—day in, day out. If you’ve been feeling stuck, inconsistent, or beating yourself up for not being perfect… this episode is your reset button.   What You’ll Hear:     •    Why quitting when it gets hard is the pattern that’s stealing your momentum     •    The misunderstood truth about “doing your best”     •    How to stay in the game when motivation is gone     •    A straight-up reminder of what showing up actually looks like   Listen, reflect, and get back in the fight.   Free Guides: Eating Out Guide - Get The Guide Hight Protein Fast Food Orders - Get the Guide Macro Food Options Guide - Get The Guide   Join Us On Patreon - Join Here   Submit your questions to be featured on our Q&A episodes.   Order from Cured Supplement Order from Legion Supplements and get 20% off your first order by using discount code: keynutrition   Connect with us on Instagram Host Brad Jensen – @thesoberbodybuilder Next Level Nutrition – @mynextlevelnutrition   Episode Timestamps 00:00:00 – Brad introduces the return of "10 minutes of fire" and sets the intention for a motivating, no-nonsense episode. 00:01:02 – "Stop quitting when things get hard." Brad emphasizes the importance of not running from adversity and how purpose often comes from pain. 00:03:00 – Brad discusses how our minds create stories from fear and how recognizing this pattern helps break it. 00:04:51 – Key difference between pivoting on your goals and actually quitting; making intentional decisions is contrasted with giving up. 00:07:44 – Brad references “The Four Agreements” as simple yet life-changing principles. 00:10:54 – Always do your best, even if your best changes from day to day. "Act better than you feel" is emphasized. 00:13:19 – Importance of progress over perfection; evaluating daily best based on current circumstances. 00:15:00 – Pivoting vs. quitting in fitness, career, and relationships—growth often comes from adapting, not stopping. 00:16:01 – Empowerment and changing your identity by aligning actions with goals. 00:16:55 – Closing motivation.

In this episode of The Next Level Health & Fitness Podcast, we dive into a surprising topic: the potential dangers of relying too heavily on ChatGPT and other AI tools—especially when it comes to nutrition, fitness, and critical thinking. AI can be helpful, no doubt. But when it replaces real thought, personalization, and context, it can actually set people back. We break down where things go wrong—particularly in the nutrition space—and how blindly trusting AI advice can lead to confusion, misinformation, and poor results. We also explore new research showing that overuse of AI tools may be affecting brain development and reducing critical thinking skills in students and young adults. What You’ll Learn: Why generic nutrition advice from AI can do more harm than good The importance of nuance and context in health and fitness How AI might be rewiring the way we think—and not in a good way How to use ChatGPT as a tool without outsourcing your brain The difference between information and wisdom—and why it matters This one’s a call to stay sharp, think critically, and remember: technology is a tool—but you’re the driver.   Free Guides: Eating Out Guide - Get The Guide Hight Protein Fast Food Orders - Get the Guide Macro Food Options Guide - Get The Guide   Join Us On Patreon - Join Here   Submit your questions to be featured on our Q&A episodes.   Order from Cured Supplement Order from Legion Supplements and get 20% off your first order by using discount code: keynutrition   Connect with us on Instagram Host Brad Jensen – @thesoberbodybuilder Next Level Nutrition – @mynextlevelnutrition   Episode Timestamps 00:00:00 – Brad Jensen welcomes listeners to the Next Level Podcast and jokes about being the "first listen" of the day. 00:00:46 – Craig notes he's present and joins in on the "first listen" banter. 00:01:02 – Brad and Craig discuss when the podcast episode drops and their international listeners. 00:01:32 – Brad recounts technical errors with episode drops and not wanting to point fingers. 00:02:10 – Craig brings up common phrases like "no disrespect" or "can I be honest?" and their impact on communication. 00:03:07 – Brad and Craig discuss better ways to offer feedback or express concerns, emphasizing open communication. 00:03:28 – Brad shares a personal story about being asked if he was ready to receive tough feedback and the benefits of postponing tough conversations. 00:04:17 – Craig dives into the importance of welcoming communication, asking permission, and setting the stage for productive conversations. 00:05:14 – The hosts shift into lighthearted banter about T.J. Maxx, Bed Bath & Beyond, and store nostalgia. 00:06:23 – Brad tells a story from a police show about honesty and the surprising confessions of a man pulled over. 00:07:39 – Brad introduces the main topic: the uses and flaws of ChatGPT and other AI tools like Gemini, comparing them to Google. 00:09:52 – Brad discusses the bias of ChatGPT's answers, how prompts affect responses, and examples of biased answers. 00:11:33 – Craig talks about the danger of losing critical thinking skills due to overreliance on AI for quick answers. 00:13:59 – Brad highlights how AI content lacks "soul" and why personal writing and human connection matter, especially for coaches and entrepreneurs. 00:20:12 – Brad shares a cautionary story about a client using AI for advice on anabolic steroids and the risks of poorly sourced AI information.  

In this insightful episode, we’re joined by Andres Ayesta — RD, fat loss coach, and founder of Planos Nutrition — who has helped over 600 clients achieve lasting fat loss with expert-built systems. With more than 12 years of coaching experience, Andres shares why so many people fail in their fitness and fat loss journeys, and what it actually takes to succeed. Andres breaks down his powerful “rocks, pebbles, and sand” analogy, helping you understand what’s truly important in your health journey — and what’s just noise. We unpack why foundational habits like daily movement, strength training, and protein intake are your “rocks,” while debates over seed oils or supplements are more like “sand.” You’ll hear practical tips on prioritizing what matters most, plus examples of how clients get caught up in distractions that don’t drive real progress. Andres shares actionable strategies to simplify your approach and finally see results. Key Topics Discussed: Why most people fail to make lasting changes in fitness and nutrition. The “rocks, pebbles, and sand” framework for setting health priorities. Common distractions like seed oils vs. foundational habits like walking more. How to simplify your diet approach for sustainable fat loss. Coaching insights from working with 35+ men and women over 12+ years. About Our Guest: Andres Ayesta is a Registered Dietitian and Fat Loss Coach with 12+ years of experience helping men and women 35 and up achieve fat loss that sticks. He has served over 600 clients through his evidence-based, habit-focused systems. Based in Tampa, Florida, Andres shares practical nutrition and lifestyle strategies to help people transform their health for good.   Check out his coaching: linktr.ee/planosnutrition   4th of July Sale! Get 15-20% off Nutrition Coaching until July 5th - Work With A Coach   Free Guides: Eating Out Guide - Get The Guide Hight Protein Fast Food Orders - Get the Guide Macro Food Options Guide - Get The Guide   Join Us On Patreon - Join Here   Submit your questions to be featured on our Q&A episodes.   Order from Cured Supplement Order from Legion Supplements and get 20% off your first order by using discount code: keynutrition   Connect with us on Instagram Host Brad Jensen – @thesoberbodybuilder Guest Andres Ayesta - @andresayesta Next Level Nutrition – @mynextlevelnutrition

In this episode, Brad and Craig dive into two essential topics for anyone looking to level up their health, mindset, and lifestyle: Dealing with Opinions & Online Noise Craig shares his recent experience of a TikTok video going viral and the flood of comments—both supportive and critical—that came with it. The guys break down how to stop letting the opinions of strangers get in your head, why it’s key to remember most people don’t know you or your journey, and how to keep your confidence intact in a world full of noise. The Calorie Bomb of Dining Out Brad pulls back the curtain on how deceptively high in calories restaurant meals can be, sharing a real-life example from an Italian restaurant menu where the average entrée clocked in at 1,500+ calories. They unpack why dining out so easily derails progress, and why we often underestimate what’s actually on our plate. Key Takeaways & Actionable Tips: Why most comments online have more to do with the commenter than with you How to block out negative opinions so you stay focused on your goals The truth about restaurant calorie counts (they’re almost always higher than you think) Simple strategies to enjoy dining out without blowing your calorie budget, including: Pre-checking menus online Asking for dressings and sauces on the side Prioritizing protein-forward options Splitting entrées or taking half home And more   4th of July Sale! Get 15-20% off Nutrition Coaching until July 5th - Work With A Coach   Free Guides: Eating Out Guide - Get The Guide Hight Protein Fast Food Orders - Get the Guide Macro Food Options Guide - Get The Guide   Join Us On Patreon - Join Here   Submit your questions to be featured on our Q&A episodes.   Order from Cured Supplement Order from Legion Supplements and get 20% off your first order by using discount code: keynutrition   Connect with us on Instagram Host Brad Jensen – @thesoberbodybuilder Next Level Nutrition – @mynextlevelnutrition

In this high-energy, deeply insightful episode, Brad sits down with Andrew Finnefrock to talk all things personal transformation. From breaking through self-limiting beliefs to navigating relationships, this conversation is packed with practical wisdom, humor, and real talk. Andrew shares how most people are unknowingly standing in their own way, and what it actually takes to get unstuck and live a life by design. They dive into the power of belief, patterns from childhood, emotional honesty, and the mindset shifts needed to create real change. Whether you’re feeling stuck, searching for more meaning, or simply want to level up, this one’s for you.   4th of July Sale! Get 15-20% off Nutrition Coaching until July 5th - Work With A Coach   Join Us On Patreon - Join Here   Submit your questions to be featured on our Q&A episodes.   Order from Cured Supplement Order from Legion Supplements and get 20% off your first order by using discount code: keynutrition   Connect with us on Instagram Host Brad Jensen – @thesoberbodybuilder Guest Andrew Finnefrock - @andrewfinnefrock Next Level Nutrition – @mynextlevelnutrition

In this powerful and raw episode, Brad and cohost Craig Smith dive deep into a message that hits home for so many: the connection between pain and purpose. This isn’t a long episode—but it’s one that pulls no punches. We talk about how the toughest seasons of your life often don’t make sense until later… when you can finally look back and realize they shaped you, strengthened you, and gave you something powerful to share with others. We break down the idea of turning your mess into your message—and how your struggles might just be the thing that equips you to help someone else rise. Whether you’re currently in the storm or you’ve been through it, this episode will remind you: growth comes through adversity, and your pain isn’t pointless.   Interested in working with a coach? Get a free nutrition consultation - Schedule Here   Join Us On Patreon - Join Here   Submit your questions to be featured on our Q&A episodes.   Order from Cured Supplement Order from Legion Supplements and get 20% off your first order by using discount code: keynutrition   Connect with us on Instagram Host Brad Jensen – @thesoberbodybuilder Next Level Nutrition – @mynextlevelnutrition

In this solo episode, I’m speaking directly to the men out there — especially the dads. This is a wake-up call. Not to be the most shredded dad on the block… but to be the present one. The disciplined one. The example your kids actually need. You don’t need six-pack abs. But you do need to model what it looks like to take care of yourself — physically, mentally, and emotionally. Because whether you realize it or not… your kids are watching. And they’re learning more from your example than your words. In this episode, I break down: Why leading your family starts with leading yourself How fitness isn’t about vanity — it’s about vitality and presence What your kids are picking up just by watching you Why emotional leadership starts with physical discipline A quick message for the moms, too — and how they can inspire change in the home This isn’t about guilt or shame. It’s about ownership. Because you’re not just raising kids — you’re raising future adults. And your legacy isn’t what you leave behind… it’s what you live in front of them.   Next Level Experience Discovery Call - Schedule Here   Interested in working with a coach? Get a free nutrition consultation - Schedule Here   Join Us On Patreon - Join Here   Submit your questions to be featured on our Q&A episodes.   Order from Cured Supplement Order from Legion Supplements and get 20% off your first order by using discount code: keynutrition   Connect with us on Instagram Host Brad Jensen – @thesoberbodybuilder Next Level Nutrition – @mynextlevelnutrition

In this Q&A episode, Brad Jensen and cohost Craig Smith tackle a wide range of listener-submitted questions that span fitness, mindset, spirituality, and real-life challenges. From teenage fat loss struggles to navigating a spiritual path after stepping away from organized religion, this conversation is real, raw, and packed with practical insights. Here’s what we cover in this episode: Do you really need to cycle off creatine? We break down the science and the myths. Our go-to mantras and affirmations for grounding ourselves and showing up powerfully each day. How to rediscover or redefine spirituality after leaving religion—and why this journey matters more than most think. Teen weight loss: What we would do differently if we could go back and coach our younger selves. Can you build muscle and lose fat at the same time? Our honest take on recomposition. Strategies for dealing with picky eaters—whether you’re the parent or the picky one. This episode is packed with real talk, practical tools, and no-BS answers to your most pressing questions. Whether you’re deep in a fitness journey or navigating personal growth, this one’s for you   Next Level Experience Discovery Call - Schedule Here   Interested in working with a coach? Get a free nutrition consultation - Schedule Here   Join Us On Patreon - Join Here   Submit your questions to be featured on our Q&A episodes.   Order from Cured Supplement Order from Legion Supplements and get 20% off your first order by using discount code: keynutrition   Connect with us on Instagram Host Brad Jensen – @thesoberbodybuilder Next Level Nutrition – @mynextlevelnutrition

In this powerful episode of The Next Level Podcast, I’m joined by two of our lead coaches in The Next Level Experience, Frank Young and Cass Zimmerman. Together, we unpack one of the biggest truths in personal transformation: if you want to change your life, you’ve got to change your identity. We dive deep into the psychology of why people stay stuck — stuck in patterns, stuck in ruts, stuck in stories they didn’t choose. We explore what it really takes to shift out of autopilot and into intentional living. This episode is more than just a conversation — it’s a wake-up call. We also talk about: Why most people sabotage their own growth The discomfort of letting go of your old self Why lasting change is about who you become, not just what you do How coaching and community make all the difference Leveling up in life takes work — but trying to do it alone? That makes it exponentially harder. If this episode lit something up in you, don’t ignore it. Spots for the next round of The Next Level Experience are almost gone. Book your discovery call now to claim one of the final few.   Next Level Experience Discovery Call - Schedule Here   Interested in working with a coach? Get a free nutrition consultation - Schedule Here   Join Us On Patreon - Join Here   Submit your questions to be featured on our Q&A episodes.   Order from Cured Supplement Order from Legion Supplements and get 20% off your first order by using discount code: keynutrition   Connect with us on Instagram Host Brad Jensen – @thesoberbodybuilder Coach Cass Zimmerman - @casofras Coach Frank Young - @frankthetankyoung Next Level Nutrition – @mynextlevelnutrition