In this episode of The Next Level Health & Fitness Podcast, Craig and I react to a viral Instagram reel where a guy quickly rattled off a list of things you supposedly don't need in your fitness journey.

It was the classic quick-hit, no-context, bait-style content… so naturally, we had thoughts.

We broke it down one by one—what we actually agree with and what we think is complete BS. Some of the points were solid, others were just flat-out misleading. Either way, it sparked a fun and informative conversation around what truly matters in your health and fitness journey.

Whether you're new to the gym or deep into your fitness lifestyle, this episode will give you some clarity (and maybe a few laughs) on what's worth your time—and what's not.

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Host Brad Jensen – @thesoberbodybuilder

Next Level Nutrition – @mynextlevelnutrition

Episode Timestamps

00:00 Entrepreneur's Recovery and Relapse Story

03:40 "Substance Use and Consequences"

07:37 Evolving Views on Thanksgiving

12:54 "Investment Mindset Over Cost View"

15:33 Free Habit-Based Challenge Launching

17:23 "Cool Exchange with Andy"

22:44 "Identifying a Good Sore"

23:52 Workout Intensity and Recovery Insights

27:18 Mystery Fitness Program Details

30:01 Glute Priming: Effective or Overhyped?

34:07 Understanding Weight Fluctuations

38:22 Gut Health: Beyond Diet Alone

39:22 Rage Bait Marketing Critique

42:49 "Challenges of Short-Form Content"

48:00 Exploring Content Beyond Short Form

49:28 "Opened Can of Worms, Bro"

In this episode of The Next Level Health & Fitness Podcast, I'm joined by someone who's been a mentor and friend to me for over six years — Jason Phillips. Jason is the founder of NCI (Nutritional Coaching Institute), a powerhouse in the coaching and certification space.

We dove deep into the current state of the coaching industry, where it's heading, and how to actually stand out in a saturated space. One of the biggest topics we covered was Jason's bold move to buy back NCI after selling it last year — the behind-the-scenes story, the lessons he learned, and what led him to step back in as owner.

Jason also dropped an exclusive scholarship opportunity for listeners looking to level up their coaching skills through NCI — a limited-time chance to join at a massive discount.

We also hit on the mindset piece — specifically, how clients can develop more patience in their journey and why that's the game-changer when it comes to long-term results.

This one's packed with wisdom, business insights, and real talk.

NCI Scholarship - Apply Here

Register For 30-Strong - Register Here

Join The Collective - Join Here

Interested in working with a coach? Get a free nutrition consultation - Schedule Here

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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

Jason Phillips - @realjasonphillips

Next Level Nutrition – @mynextlevelnutrition

Episode Timestamps

00:00 Covid's Impact: Rise of Online Coaching

04:38 Prime Opportunity for Dedicated Coaches

09:01 Coaching: Connection Beyond Communication

13:25 Respecting Client Investment and Experience

15:32 Jason: Versatile Business Coach

20:25 Active Shooter Alert at FSU

22:24 Business Sale Driven by Burnout

26:04 "NCI: Execution & Support Focused"

30:03 "Proven Success in Gym Growth"

31:12 "Coaching: Business vs. Transaction"

34:15 "Coaches' Success Tied to Growth"

37:56 Evolving Expertise: Learning from the Past

41:45 Rethink Business Education Priorities

45:08 "Building a Genuine Coaching Community"

48:55 "Connection and Generosity"

51:27 "Subscribe and Share, Please"

In this solo episode, I'm breaking down one of the most talked-about tools in the health optimization world right now—peptides.

From healing faster to building lean muscle, improving fat loss, enhancing sleep, and even slowing down the aging process… peptides are powerful. But they're also misunderstood, under-regulated, and often misused. So in this episode, I'm walking you through exactly what peptides are, how they work, the most popular ones in each category, and both the pros and cons of using them.

This is a no-BS, educational breakdown of everything you need to know before exploring peptides as a tool for better health, performance, or aesthetics.

I also cover some legal and sourcing realities—because here's the truth: most peptides aren't FDA-approved, and you'll only find them labeled for "research purposes only." This isn't an endorsement. It's a breakdown to help you make smarter, more informed decisions.

What I Cover in This Episode:

• What peptides are and how they're different from hormones or steroids
• Legal disclaimers and how they're commonly sourced
• Growth hormone peptides: CJC-1295, Ipamorelin, MK-677
• Fat loss peptides: AOD 9604 and Tesamorelin
• Healing peptides: BPC-157 and TB-500
• Anti-aging + cognitive peptides: GHK-Cu (Copper peptide), Epitalon, Semax, Selank
• Mitochondrial optimizer: MOTS-c and why it's a game-changer for metabolic health
• How to stack peptides and what to avoid
• Side effects, risks, and what to consider before diving in

Links & References:

• Biological Activities and Safety of Citrus spp. Essential Oils - Click Here
• Essential role of TRPC6 channels in G2/M phase transition and development of human glioma - Click Here

Final Take:

Peptides can be a powerful tool—but they're not a magic bullet. If you're training hard, eating right, sleeping well, and want to push to the next level, they might offer that extra edge. Just make sure you're doing it smart, and not chasing shortcuts.

Register For 30-Strong - Register Here

Join The Collective - Join 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

Episode Timestamps

00:00 "Peptides: Unapproved but Legally Sold"

04:38 Compounding vs. Big Pharma Conflict

07:44 Benefits of Growth Hormone

13:31 MK677's Effects on Body Composition

16:51 Water Retention from Low Dose?

18:30 Health Supplement: Benefits and Considerations

23:35 "GLP1s and Peptide Therapy Debate"

27:03 GHK-CU: Skin and Anti-Aging Benefits

28:14 Copper Peptides for Hair and Healing

32:39 Growth Hormones and Water Retention

34:41 Success with BPC and TB500

40:13 GLP1s Fat Loss: Efficacy Concerns

42:03 "Peptides vs. Steroids: Health Debate"

45:11 "Join the Daily Wellness Movement"

In this special re-airing, I'm bringing you my powerful conversation from Mind Pump – the #1 fitness podcast in the world. This episode was originally recorded for their show, but it was too impactful not to share here with The Next Level community.

We go deep into my story—how I went from rock bottom in addiction to building a life rooted in purpose, health, and service. I open up about the darkest chapters of my past, the moment everything changed, and the work it took (and still takes) to stay on the path of growth and integrity.

We also dive into the current state of the health and fitness industry—where it's headed, what's broken, and what truly works when it comes to transformation. This isn't just about macros or workouts. It's about coaching people to rise to their full potential—physically, mentally, and emotionally.

Whether you're a coach, someone on your own transformation journey, or just love raw, real conversations—you're going to feel this one.

Learn More About Mind Pump - Visit Mind Pump's Website

Join The Collective - Join 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

Mind Pump - @mindpumpmedia

Next Level Nutrition – @mynextlevelnutrition

Episode Timestamps

00:00 "Transformation Through Diet and Discovery"

06:33 Smuggling Steroids from Mexico

14:00 "Functioning Addict's Job Journey"

17:56 Relapse and Recovery Struggles

23:36 "Danger of Relapse Realization"

28:53 Descent Into Drug-Induced Paranoia

32:11 Car Vomit and Funeral Delay

37:02 "Rock Bottom and Recovery"

43:11 Overcoming Addiction to Launch Business

50:13 "Sharing My Journey of Hope"

56:09 Sobriety: Path to Self-Discovery?

01:01:29 Gym Judgement While Hiding Addiction

01:07:24 Zoom Coaching Enhances Client Connection

01:12:37 Balancing Family, Self, and Health

01:16:00 Overcoming Addiction: A Personal Reflection

01:20:14 "Alcoholism: The Socially Accepted Struggle"

01:24:14 "Content Creation: Embracing Criticism"

In this month's Q&A episode, Brad and Craig dive into your questions and keep it real with no fluff—just honest insight and actionable advice.

We cover a wide range of topics, including:

• Why you might be getting extra sore in a calorie deficit and how to adjust your training accordingly
• What to do when life feels like you're chasing your tail and stuck in circles
• The hardest things we've ever done—and what we learned from them
• How to deal with acne after starting testosterone replacement therapy (TRT)
• What to do after a bad day (or weekend) of eating—without spiraling
• The key differences between therapy and coaching and how to know which one you need
• Whether it's time to reverse back to maintenance calories if your sleep is seriously suffering

This one's a mix of mindset, hormones, lifestyle, and coaching wisdom. If you've ever had one of these questions cross your mind, this episode is for you.

Greatest Day Mindset Scholarship - Apply Here

Live Your Greatest Life Program - Enroll Here

Join The Collective - Join 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

Co-Host Craig Smith - @greatestdaymindset

Next Level Nutrition – @mynextlevelnutrition

Episode Timestamps

00:00 Uneven Arm Size Story

05:45 Shifting Competition Outcomes

11:56 "Scholarship Winners' Dedication Celebrated"

20:08 Therapy Blending with Coaching

25:50 Steroid Use and Health Considerations

27:29 "Estrogen Regulation and Acne Causes"

32:17 Coaching Success: Trust and Accountability

41:11 "Revisit Past Positive Habits"

42:59 Sleep Issues & Calorie Deficit Correlation

51:42 Adjusting Workout Intensity and Habits

56:29 Overcoming Perceived Porn Addiction

59:22 "Palpable Darkness and Relationship Strains"

01:06:19 "Dark Energy: A Slippery Slope"

01:09:43 Subscribe and Share Request

In this powerful in-studio episode, I'm joined by Treavor Hawkins — an active-duty military member and competitive bodybuilder who's survived two serious suicide attempts. His story is raw, real, and incredibly inspiring.

Treavor takes us through the darkest moments of his life and how they became the catalyst for emotional, mental, and spiritual transformation. From the depths of hell to a life filled with purpose, Treavor now uses his voice to uplift others through his own podcast and message.

We dive into:

• The turning points that changed everything
• How fitness became his anchor
• His emotional and spiritual growth
• The power of vulnerability and purpose

This is more than a comeback — it's a reminder of what's possible when you refuse to give up.

If this hit home, share it with someone who needs it — and don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review.

Treavor Hawkins Email - [email protected]

I've Been There Too Podcast

Apple Podcasts - Listen

Spotify - Listen

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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 Treaver Hawkins - @ivebeentheretoo_podcast

Next Level Nutrition – @mynextlevelnutrition

We've all said it… "I'll start tomorrow." Whether it's your fitness, nutrition, or that one habit you've been meaning to build — there's something strangely comforting about pushing it off to tomorrow.

In this episode, Brad and Craig break down the real reason we fall into the "starting tomorrow" mentality — and it's not just laziness. Craig unpacks the science behind it, explaining how putting off change actually triggers a dopamine rush that makes us feel good, even though we're doing nothing. Wild, right?

We also dig into the deeper mindset behind this pattern: perfectionism, fear of failure, identity issues, and the illusion that tomorrow you will somehow be more motivated, more disciplined, or have more time.

But don't worry — this isn't just a callout. We also give you real strategies to break free from the loop and start taking imperfect action today.

What You'll Learn:

• Why your brain loves the "starting tomorrow" story
• How dopamine tricks you into inaction
• The difference between motivation and discipline (and which one actually matters)
• Simple mindset shifts to start now — not next week
• How to stop needing a "perfect" starting point

If you've been stuck in that cycle of almost starting, this episode is your wake-up call.

Join The Collective - Join 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

Co-Host Craig Smith - @greatestdaymindset

Next Level Nutrition – @mynextlevelnutrition

Episode Timestamps

00:00 Egg Breakfast Digestive Trouble

04:40 Baseball Cards for Dope

07:48 Exploring Ineffective Feel-Good Habits

12:24 "Dopamine's Role in Procrastination"

15:19 "Start Immediately, Not Tomorrow"

17:51 "The Fresh Start Effect"

21:31 Procrastination and Future Self-Deception

25:45 "Finding Motivation: Perspective Matters"

28:16 "Balancing Breaks and Exercise"

29:27 Restart Anytime: Recovery Mindset

34:35 "Tomorrow's Free Drinks Joke"

36:15 Start Small, Start Now

39:14 "Embrace Awareness and Act Now"

In this solo episode, Brad breaks down five of the most overrated exercises you see people doing all the time in the gym. These aren't flashy TikTok moves—these are the staples that have been passed down for years, but might not be giving you the results you think they are.

Whether it's poor mechanics, ego lifting, or just outdated thinking, Brad dives into why these exercises are often misused or misunderstood—and what smarter, more effective alternatives you can do instead.

If you're serious about training with purpose and intention, this episode will help you rethink your programming and get more out of every workout.

Join The Collective - Join 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

Episode Timestamps

00:00 Solo Episode Explanation

04:22 Exercise Perspectives by "The Book of Brad"

07:18 Hip Thrusts: Overrated for Hypertrophy?

11:41 Smith Machine Squat Critique

15:38 Cable Tricep Kickback Benefits

18:40 Spinal Flexion Concerns in Exercise

21:57 "Train Hard vs. Technical Lifting"

23:48 "Quick Workout Insights"

If I could go back and coach the younger version of myself when I first started my fitness journey, I'd have a lot to say. In this episode, I break down the biggest mistakes I made early on—and the key things I'd do differently if I had to start all over today.

From being a clean-eating zealot and blindly following meal plans to underestimating the power of sleep, fiber, and mental health… this is the real, unfiltered truth about what I've learned over the years. I also dive into comparison traps at the gym, the shift from restriction to flexibility, and why focusing on the long game always wins.

Whether you're just starting your journey or you've been at this a while, this episode will give you some honest perspective and practical takeaways to help you level up—with fewer detours than I took.

Join The Collective - Join 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

Co-Host Craig Smith - @greatestdaymindset

Next Level Nutrition – @mynextlevelnutrition

Episode Timestamps

00:00 "Podcast Appreciation and Sharing Request"

05:42 Ditching Old Diet Myths

08:59 Opinion vs. Fact on Social Media

10:11 Mindset Shift in Competition Diet

13:19 Embrace Flexible Dieting Early

17:54 Real Life Stress and Sleep's Importance

21:22 The Four-Legged Chair of Fitness

26:03 Nutrition Insights & Mistakes

28:27 Prioritizing Supplements in Fitness Regimens

30:49 Join Our Weekly Membership Calls

34:18 "Long-Term Fitness Mindset"

36:15 Grateful for Listening Support

In this raw and vulnerable solo episode, I share the scariest moment of my life—an unexpected and severe allergic reaction that sent me into full-blown anaphylactic shock while I was still driving. I blacked out, nearly died, and somehow, by what I believe were divine miracles, I'm still here to tell the story.

This episode isn't just about what happened—it's about what that moment taught me. I open up about the profound lessons I took from this brush with death, including the deeper perspective on life it gave me and the unshakable power of gratitude, even in the middle of chaos.

Whether you've faced your own life-threatening scare or just been through something heavy, my hope is that this episode gives you insight, perspective, and maybe even peace. Sometimes it takes a traumatic moment to wake us up—but we don't have to wait until it's life or death to start living fully.

What You'll Hear in This Episode:

• The terrifying details of my allergic reaction and what happened in those critical moments
• The divine moments I believe saved my life
• The powerful shift in perspective I experienced afterward
• Why gratitude is essential—even (and especially) in our darkest times
• Lessons you might take away from your own hard or traumatic experiences

If this episode resonates with you, share it with someone who needs a reminder of how precious life really is.

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

Co-Host Craig Smith - @greatestdaymindset

Next Level Nutrition – @mynextlevelnutrition

Episode Timestamps

03:34 Observing and Reframing Experiences

09:01 Amoxicillin Allergic Reaction

13:17 Allergic Reaction at Dom's School

16:09 Severe Allergic Reaction Collapse

18:49 Quick Recovery and Grateful Intuition

21:51 Life's Fragility Reminder

25:17 Emotional and Physical Recovery Journey

29:21 Grateful for Supportive Friends

31:42 Surrendering to Life's Terms

36:40 Growth Through Discomfort

37:11 "Grateful Podcast Farewell"