NLP618 - Muscle Imbalances, Practicing Grit and Grace, Weightlifting Belts, Cardio Before Weights, and More! Q&A

Welcome back to The Next Level Health and Fitness Podcast! I'm your host, Brad Jensen, and today we have an amazing guest who's here to share her incredible journey with us. Meet Emma Hooker, a certified fitness and nutrition coach who’s lost a jaw-dropping 160 pounds! Emma's story is packed with ups, downs, and everything in between. In this episode, Emma dives into what it was like to deal with loose skin, go through a few surgeries, and fight an autoimmune disease during her school years. She also opens up about how essential mental health and therapy were in her transformation. But it’s not all heavy stuff—Emma’s got loads of practical advice on moderation, nutrition, and keeping things real in a world of diet myths. She’s all about balance, allowing yourself small indulgences, and focusing on sustainable health changes. So, whether you're kickstarting your own fitness journey or just need some motivation, you’ll definitely find value in Emma’s story. Don’t miss out on this inspiring chat—it’s time to get to your Next Level!   Register for our free upcoming webinar - Register Here   Interested in working with a coach? Get a free nutrition consultation - Schedule 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 Emma Hooker - @emmaa.getsfit Next Level Nutrition – @mynextlevelnutrition   Episode Timestamps 00:00 Join free training for goals and giveaways. 08:04 Struggled with self-image, illness, and school success. 14:36 Weight struggles led to transformative fitness journey. 20:02 Listen, balance food; restrictive diets often fail. 25:30 Self-taught mindful eating through simple tracking. 34:09 Perseverance, motivation, and support fueled weight loss. 39:03 Loose skin is worth good health and acceptance. 43:09 Weight loss acceptance versus painful surgery trade-off. 50:24 Prioritize mental health, self-kindness, and positive thoughts. 54:52 Struggled with addiction, committed to lasting sobriety. 01:04:53 Addiction struggles require personal responsibility for change. 01:07:02 Empowerment: Acknowledging responsibility leads to transformation.

In today's episode, we dive into the benefits of full range of motion exercises, debating the merits of training to failure, and the underrated importance of stretching and mobility. Our hosts tackle the pros and cons of home workouts versus the gym and discuss the mixed reliability of fitness wearables. As they navigate through body part splits and high-intensity interval training, Brad and Craig also share passionate insights on the emotional highs and lows of being sports fans, covering topics like college football dynamics and NIL money influences. Offering a mix of humor, motivational advice, and practical tips, this episode is a must-listen for fitness enthusiasts and sports aficionados alike. Join Brad and Craig for another engaging chat designed to elevate your fitness and mindset on Next Level.   DohJoy - (code: BRAD) - Order Here   Interested in working with a coach? Get a free nutrition consultation - Schedule 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 Delicious homemade bread with protein, fiber benefits. 06:05 Athletic director criticized for defending players. 13:10 Sports are brutal; emotional investment is tough. 20:49 HIIT's aesthetic overrated; health underrated, efficient fat-burn. 28:37 Fewer sets improve effectiveness, reduce overtraining. 35:05 Train hard, avoid failure for safety, recovery. 38:29 Increased mobility improves recovery and sleep quality. 45:37 Intensity matters more than frequency in training. 46:47 Accountability improves fitness; group workouts are underrated. 55:16 Wearable fitness trackers are often inaccurate, overrated. 01:02:09 Focus on full range and lengthened movements. 01:05:04 Be grateful for not being into sports.

Welcome to the latest episode of Next Level, where we go deep into the sophisticated world of nutrition, psychology, and healthier living. Today, Brad Jensen sits down with Jared Hamilton, a seasoned nutrition coach, host of the "Inside Out Dieting" podcast, and renowned content creator with over a decade of experience in the fitness industry. In this episode, Jared debunks the common myth equating food addiction with drug addiction, shedding light on the significant behavioral differences between the two. We'll explore the complexities of our relationship with food and how self-perception, beliefs, and the power of the placebo effect often lead individuals to think they are addicted to sugar. Jared shares practical strategies to manage eating habits and improve our relationships with "trigger" foods, emphasizing moderation over elimination. Join us as we delve into the psychological elements of dieting, the impact of parental behavior on children’s self-image, and the importance of addressing deeper personal patterns and emotions connected to binge eating. We'll also discuss industry pet peeves like fearmongering and deception in the fitness world while emphasizing the necessity of combining professional therapy with physical exercise for true mental and emotional well-being. Get ready for an insightful conversation filled with actionable advice and real-life anecdotes that will help you navigate your journey towards a balanced and sustainable healthy lifestyle. Don’t forget to subscribe and share this episode with anyone who might benefit from these valuable insights!   Interested in working with a coach? Get a free nutrition consultation - Schedule 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 Jared Hamilton - @realjaredhamilton Next Level Nutrition – @mynextlevelnutrition   Episode Timestamps 00:00 Transformed from overweight kid to fitness entrepreneur. 07:08 Discussing self-talk, dieting impact, and impersonations. 08:16 Content creator engages audience with relatable skits. 14:05 Childhood diet mentality impacts self-view, communication. 18:28 Food addiction isn't identical to drug addiction. 21:20 Beliefs shape reality; sugar addiction often misunderstood. 25:23 Drugs aren't the issue; self-change is essential. 27:52 It depends on willingness to address habits. 32:41 Change habits by creating new neural pathways. 41:42 Gradual steps lead to self-control development. 43:44 Client struggles with discipline, needs accountability check-ins. 47:52 It's always about understanding and addressing emotions. 50:19 Widespread deceit in media through image manipulation. 53:05 Industry filled with fake 'natural' bodybuilders using gear. 58:12 Contradictory advice creates unnecessary consumer fear. 59:24 Check out "Dieting from the Inside Out."

Welcome to another thought-provoking episode of the Next Level Podcast. I'm your host, Brad Jensen, and today we're diving into the powerful influence of language on children's self-esteem, body image, and their relationship with food. We'll explore how mindful language and positive body talk can shape young minds, from the early stages of development to their teenage years. Join me as we unpack the research that highlights the critical role parental attitudes play, and hear some practical advice on how to foster a healthy, balanced approach to food and self-image in your home. Plus, I'll share some personal experiences to illustrate just how impactful our words and actions can be. Let's get started on the journey to becoming positive role models for our kids' self-esteem and body image!   Interested in working with a coach? Get a free nutrition consultation - Schedule 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 Mindful language and its impact on children. 04:35 Young children internalize language, shaping self-perception. 07:21 Parental dieting talk influences children's body image. 12:35 Weighing food teaches awareness, not disordered eating. 15:18 Promote health by modeling positive behaviors. 18:35 Guard your language, especially around children. 23:51 Moderation in giving child M&Ms treats. 26:49 Encourage kindness and resilience over physical appearance. 29:53 Address body image issues proactively with positivity. 33:12 Mindful language: mistakes teach, avoid negative self-talk.

This week's guest, and Next Level Nutrition coach Chelsey, opens up about overcoming disordered eating without formal treatment and the challenges of societal pressures, especially before her wedding. We explore her journey through functional health, gut issues, and a break from high-intensity workouts, all of which deepened her self-worth beyond physical appearance. We also touch on the power of somatics and understanding emotional connections within our bodies to break patterns like emotional eating. Tune in for an episode packed with inspiration and practical advice, perfect for anyone looking to enhance their relationship with food, body image, and holistic health.   Get a Free Nutrition Consultion - Schedule 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 Chelsey Bird - @chelsey.bird Next Level Nutrition – @mynextlevelnutrition   Episode Timestamps 00:00 Aspiring coach inspired by helping others' habits. 04:03 Unexpected opportunity led to coaching role offer. 08:59 Disordered eating and personal realization drive recovery. 12:21 Internal work led to body appreciation and love. 18:04 Surrendering leads to better results, trust coaches. 20:27 Coaching guides; personal readiness determines success. 25:03 Somatics: Understanding self through body connection. 31:48 Connect with body to access intuitive wisdom. 35:15 Embrace emotions to overcome emotional eating patterns. 38:41 Awareness, acceptance, action — vulnerability empowers change. 43:02 Be compassionate; embrace life's changing capacities. 45:25 Find Chelsea Dot Bird on Instagram.

Welcome to another episode of The Next Level Podcast! Today, we dive deep into the art of decision-making. We'll tackle the often-blurred lines between quitting and changing one’s mind, guided by intention and thoughtful reflection. Craig shares a personal journey from powerlifting, where injury and lack of preparation prompted a reassessment of his goals. Together, Brad and Craig explore how emotions can drive impulsive quitting, while informed decisions to change direction bring clarity and growth. We’ll discuss the importance of internal versus external motivations, with examples from weight loss goals to professional transitions. Brad opens up about his own experiences, highlighting how personal priorities and shifting perspectives can redefine our commitments. Whether it's fitness ambitions or life-altering choices, tune in to discover how embracing change with a rational mindset can lead to invaluable personal growth. Join us as we encourage you, our listeners, to reflect on your own goals and embrace the power of informed decision-making.   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   Episode Timestamps 00:00 Discussing past topics; curious about Craig's perspective. 06:00 Injury and inadequate preparation led to quitting. 09:14 Quitting can be impulsive or deliberate decisions. 12:32 Changing goals prioritize personal growth over numbers. 17:25 Chose not to attend due to exhaustion. 19:57 Evaluate decisions: relief or missed opportunities? 24:59 Personal development clarifies personal goals and identity. 28:10 Aspirations shouldn't sacrifice important life priorities. 30:47 Adapt philosophies; change outdated beliefs; progress.

In this episode of The Next Level Health & Fitness Podcast, I sit down with my close friend and trusted expert, Liz Roman—known as “the poop queen” on Instagram. Liz, who coached me last year to optimize my gut health and immunity, is one of my go-to resources for client cases, and you’ll quickly see why. We dive into an “overrated and underrated” segment where Liz shares her insights on a wide range of topics related to gut health, hormone health, and supplements. From probiotics to electrolytes and constipation issues, Liz provides practical tips and hacks for improving gut health and overall wellness. This episode is packed with valuable information for anyone looking to optimize their digestion, support their immune system, and better understand the role of supplements in their health journey. Don’t miss this informative conversation full of actionable insights! Podcast - Probiotics: What you need to know - Listen on Apple Podcasts   Sign-up for our free webinar 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 Liz Roman - @thepoopqueen Next Level Nutrition – @mynextlevelnutrition   Episode Timestamps 00:00 Next Level podcast: Gut health insights, free webinar. 08:42 Poop Queen's authenticity led to viral success. 12:52 Helping women worldwide with virtual functional medicine. 20:40 Social media isn't suitable for telehealth interactions. 25:10 Ensure quality probiotics; consider needs and conditions. 30:54 Diverse diet supports a healthy gut microbiome. 35:15 Nicotine disrupts gut balance, causes digestive issues. 38:13 Persistent ear infections resolved by getting ear tubes. 44:09 Chew slowly to improve digestion and absorption. 52:04 Increase fiber gradually for better gut health. 57:30 Use MRT for accurate immune response assessment. 01:01:49 Detox cleanses can be ineffective and harmful. 01:06:47 Lemon aids digestion, despite enamel concerns. 01:11:42 Magnesium is essential; soil depletion reduces intake. 01:16:32 Experimenting with hydration methods and water bottles. 01:22:15 Choose what makes you feel confident and good.

In this Q&A episode of the Next Level Health and Fitness Podcast, co-hosts Craig Smith and I dive into a wide range of listener questions. We discuss the role of weightlifting belts and how to use them effectively, address muscle imbalances and how to correct them, and explore the balance of grit and grace when getting back on track after falling off the wagon. We also break down whether cardio is better before or after your workout, along with a few other topics that provide practical tips to optimize your fitness journey.   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 Encouragement: Compete only with yourself, keep going. 04:42 Intuition, guidance, and empowerment in group leadership. 07:29 Submit questions via show notes link. 10:41 Coaching thrives, but people skills are essential. 14:23 Balance levels; takeaways exist; transition requires persistence. 16:46 Be okay not being great initially. 22:22 Mistakes are valuable lessons and growth opportunities. 26:37 Belts reduce injury risk for heavy lifting. 27:33 Limit weight belt use to heavy lifts. 34:11 Optimize training by splitting cardio and weights. 37:47 Reflect on addiction, seek support for recovery. 42:09 Struggling with weed can lead to guilt. 45:58 Balance focus on physical, mental, emotional, spiritual health. 49:56 Combine activities for holistic well-being through value stacking. 54:08 Podcast enhances lifestyle: business, health, fitness insights.

In this episode of The Next Level Health & Fitness Podcast (formerly The Key Nutrition Podcast), I’m joined by none other than Adam Schafer, co-host of the wildly popular Mind Pump podcast and one of the most recognized voices in the fitness industry. Adam shares his personal journey of getting back into peak physical condition, giving listeners an inside look at the challenges, strategies, and mindset shifts required for success. We dive into the ins and outs of the fitness business, discussing how the landscape has changed over the years and what it takes to stand out in such a competitive field. Adam offers his candid thoughts on the current state of the fitness world, touching on trends, common pitfalls, and the importance of balancing health with sustainability. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast, a coach, or simply someone looking to take your health to the next level, this conversation is packed with actionable insights and thought-provoking ideas. Adam’s deep experience and no-nonsense approach make this a must-listen for anyone serious about fitness grotesque.   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

On today’s episode of The Next Level Health & Fitness Podcast, I sit down with fellow Next Level nutrition coach Jennifer Orme for her third appearance on the show. In her last episode, we celebrated Jenn being in the best shape of her life at 45, but a year later, she faced unexpected health challenges that resulted in a 25-pound weight gain. After discovering an autoimmune condition, Jenn embarked on a year-long holistic journey to find the root cause of her issues. We dive into how this experience impacted her mental health, confidence as a coach, and her approach to fitness. We also discussed the often-overlooked importance of maintenance and shared tips on how to successfully navigate this crucial phase. Jenn’s  story is a powerful reminder that setbacks can be overcome, and her resilience offers inspiration to anyone facing their own challenges.   Work with Jennifer - Click Here   Register for our Next Level Coaching Summit - Get Tickets 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 Jennifer Orme - @jenn4thehealthofit Next Level Nutrition – @mynextlevelnutrition