In this episode of The Next Level Hope and Fitness Podcast, Craig and I kick things off with an unexpected conversation that had us both literally in tears—like, the kind where your stomach hurts from laughing too hard. We’re pretty sure you’ll get a good laugh along with us before we shift gears into something that really matters: accountability.

We break down a hard truth—no matter who’s holding you accountable, at some point, you have to care that they’re holding you accountable. Coaches can try all the tactics in the world, but until the client actually wants to be held accountable, nothing will change.

Accountability is the crutch that helps you make things happen—but only if you care enough to let it work. If you’ve ever struggled with staying consistent, following through, or making lasting changes, this episode is for you.

What You’ll Learn:

• Why accountability only works if you care
• Different ways coaches try to hold clients accountable
• The mindset shift that turns accountability into a game-changer
• Why external motivation will only take you so far

Get ready for some laughs, some tough love, and some serious truth bombs about what it really takes to level up.

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

Co-Host Craig Smith - @greatestdaymindset

Next Level Nutrition – @mynextlevelnutrition

Episode Timestamps

00:00 Expanding Podcast to YouTube

03:42 "Episode Planning and Spontaneity"

06:47 Back-Shaving Confession Inspired by Ad

12:29 Gym Equipment and Culture Shift

13:17 Planet Fitness Shifts Strategy

17:22 Entrepreneur's Shift to Solo Coaching

21:44 Accountability's Fleeting Impact

24:11 Strength Training Boosts Health and Longevity

26:14 Protein Powder Concerns: Beware of Amino Spiking

31:34 Self Accountability Over Coach Dependency

34:36 Commitment Uncertainty and Respect

35:19 Personal Accountability in Relationships

In this episode, I sit down with our Next Level Nutrition coach, Tom Hippler, for a raw and honest conversation about the reality of falling off track—even as a seasoned nutrition coach.

Tom was one of the original coaches who helped me build this business, but in early 2023, he stepped away to start his own thing. Between launching a business, getting engaged, and buying his first home, Tom found himself in a place he never expected—struggling to maintain his own health and fitness. He opens up about how the stress of these major life events led him to neglect his nutrition and workouts, what it felt like to be in that position, and, most importantly, how he got back on track.

Now, after over a decade in the industry, Tom is back with Next Level Nutrition, and we couldn’t be more excited. He shares the biggest lessons he learned during this period, how he rebuilt his habits, and why he’s more committed than ever to helping others do the same.

PLUS, in honor of his return, Tom is giving away four months of completely free, high-level, one-on-one fitness coaching to one lucky listener! We’ve linked the application below—don’t miss your chance to work with Tom for free.

Enter for a chance to win 3 free months of coaching - Enter 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 Win Free Coaching Opportunity

03:13 Stress-Induced Undereating Journey

06:40 Changing Gyms, Finding Balance

10:22 Fitness-Friendly Cocktail Creations

13:31 Weekend Eating and Metabolism Shift

18:19 Client-Tailored Diet Break Strategy

18:54 Five Free De-Stressing Tips

24:43 Balancing Fitness and Empathy

28:08 Goal Setting Through Adversity

30:33 Aim for 80% Consistency

33:29 Growth Through Relationship Challenges

37:42 Coaching Boundaries in Close Relationships

38:59 "Recovery Is Closer Than You Think"

In this episode, Craig and I dive into an important distinction when it comes to mental health: Are you truly protecting your well-being, or are you using “mental health” as an excuse to avoid discomfort?

We discuss a recent post from a well-known therapist on Instagram that challenges the common narrative around mental health days. While it’s crucial to take care of yourself, there’s a fine line between honoring your needs and simply taking the easy way out. We break down how to use discernment when deciding whether to push through a challenge or step back for self-care.

What We Cover in This Episode:

• The difference between protecting your mental health vs. avoiding difficult situations
• How to recognize when “taking a break” is really just self-sabotage
• Why discomfort is often a necessary part of growth
• Craig’s perspective as a therapist and how he helps clients navigate this balance
• Practical strategies to check in with yourself and make the right call

This is a conversation we all need—because personal growth isn’t just about knowing when to rest, but also knowing when to rise.

Tune in, share with a friend, and let us know your thoughts!

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 Mental Health as a Convenient Excuse

06:23 Fitness Influencer's Mental Health Impact

07:02 "Social Media Trigger Warnings?"

10:57 "Struggling with Genuine Self-Reflection"

15:53 Balancing Mental Health and Toughness

16:23 Balancing Mental Health and Responsibilities

22:23 "Embrace Connection for Mental Health"

25:49 Hormones and Emotional Perception

26:15 "Rejuvenate with a Mental Health Day"

In this episode of The Next Level Health & Fitness Podcast (formerly The Key Nutrition Podcast), I’m answering more of your burning questions! We’re diving into a wide range of topics, including:

• The benefits of red light therapy – is it worth the hype?
• The best sleep supplements and my personal recommendations for better rest
• What to do when your weight loss stalls – should you lower your calorie deficit?
• Tips for waking up early and becoming a morning person
• And much more!

I also share an exciting opportunity for dads looking to level up their health and fitness. I’m running a case study for The Next Level Dad Project—a small group coaching experience designed to help busy dads take control of their fitness, nutrition, and mindset while building a strong community of like-minded men. If you’re a dad who’s ready to stop putting yourself on the back burner and start making real progress, this is for you!

Schedule a Free Consultation for The Next Level Dad Project case study: 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

Co-Host Craig Smith - @greatestdaymindset

Next Level Nutrition – @mynextlevelnutrition

Episode Timestamps

00:00 Rapid Fire Podcast Q&A Session

04:16 Calories and Macros: The Connection

09:23 Balancing Muscle Gain and Body Fat

11:00 Promoting Sleep-Enhancing Products

14:28 Red Light Therapy Benefits

17:43 "Finding Support in AA for Alcohol Issues"

22:15 Friendships Evolve with Shared Interests

22:59 "Determining True Friends and Health Choices"

26:45 Gratitude After 700 Episodes

In this episode, we’re diving into a Q&A session, tackling some of your most asked questions about health, fitness, and mindset. We cover everything from how to navigate weekend eating without undoing your progress to our favorite exercises and whether weighted vests are actually worth it. Plus, we talk about working out while sick, staying consistent, and a whole lot more.

This episode is packed with practical tips, personal insights, and some fun tangents along the way. Tune in and get ready to level up!

Topics Covered:

• How to approach weekend eating without derailing progress
• Our favorite exercises (and why they made the cut)
• Should you work out when you’re sick?
• The benefits (and potential downsides) of weighted vests
• And much, much more!

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 Sound Challenges and Improvements

06:34 Managing Exercise When Sick

09:08 Exercise-Induced Coughing Struggles

12:52 Current Favorite Exercise Realization

13:51 Embrace Help for Growth

16:54 "Embracing Presence in Life"

22:30 Viral Success Through Walking Transformation

24:39 "Self-Inventory: Five Life Pillars"

28:04 "Composed Communication Approach"

29:40 "Forgiveness Limits and Boundaries"

35:05 Cardio's Impact on Hunger and Fat Loss

37:24 Consistent Calorie Deficit Benefits

42:06 Processing Emotions Beyond Hate

43:27 Optimal Workout Cadence

48:10 Tactical Meal Planning Mindset

49:47 Breaking Unhealthy Snacking Habits

52:31 Subscribe & Share With Friends

In this episode of The Next Level, I sit down with Dr. Erika Schwartz to dive deep into bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT)—what it is, why it matters, and why so many general physicians are hesitant to address hormone imbalances. Dr. Schwartz is the founder of Evolved Science, a world-renowned medical practice in New York City, built on the principle that balancing hormones is the foundation for better health. From there, her practice focuses on optimization, longevity, disease prevention, and patient advocacy to help people live their best lives.

We break down some of the biggest misconceptions about hormone therapy, why traditional medicine tends to resist it, and what you need to know if you’re considering BHRT for yourself. Dr. Schwartz also shares her insights on the negative effects of alcohol, including its well-documented links to cancer risk and overall health decline.

This is a must-listen if you’ve ever felt dismissed by a doctor when asking about your hormones or if you’re curious about how to optimize your health through a proactive, science-based approach.

Episode Highlights:

• Why general physicians are reluctant to address hormone imbalances
• The truth about bioidentical hormone replacement therapy and its misconceptions
• How balanced hormones lay the foundation for better health and longevity
• The negative effects of alcohol on hormones and cancer risk
• How Dr. Schwartz helps patients take control of their health through prevention and optimization

Connect with Dr. Erika Schwartz:

Website: eshealth.com

Instagram: @drerikaschwartz

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

Guest Dr. Erika Schwartz - @drerikaschwartz

Next Level Nutrition – @mynextlevelnutrition

Episode Timestamps

00:00 From Trauma Center to Medicine Skeptic

05:33 Patient-Inspired Prescription Discovery

11:56 Testosterone, Prostate Cancer, Unproven Myths

20:37 "Advocating Beyond Blind Trust"

24:06 Demand Honest Medical Advice

26:39 Rethinking Testosterone and Blood Tests

35:35 "CDC and Big Pharma Dynamics"

38:21 Patient Reactions to Nasal Peptides

45:38 Alcohol Abstinence Boosts Health

49:58 Questioning Drinking Culture Norms

54:41 Weed, Alcohol, and Low Testosterone

59:20 AI in Medicine and COVID Mystery

Let’s be real—most people don’t fail because they aren’t capable. They fail because they quit. And why do they quit? Because things get hard.

In this episode, I bring you a fire message on why you have to stop giving up when obstacles arise. Whether it’s your fitness goals, personal growth, or career aspirations, the biggest difference between success and failure is your ability to keep going when it’s uncomfortable.

I break down:

• Why quitting has become your default reaction (and how to shift that).
• The truth about challenges—they aren’t signs to stop; they’re signs you’re on the right path.
• Tactical solutions to push through when motivation fades and resistance kicks in.
• How to rewire your mindset so that discipline and resilience become your new normal.

If you’re tired of starting over, tired of making excuses, and tired of letting yourself down—this episode is for you. It’s time to commit, push through, and level up.

Subscribe & Review: If this episode fired you up, let me know! Leave a review and share it with someone who needs to hear it.

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 Bonus Patreon Episode Released

05:04 Exclusive Business and Dads Coaching

08:35 Unsustainable Goals Lead to Failure

12:11 Persistence and Discernment in Challenges

13:17 "Remember Your Why"

19:41 Journey: Heaven Feels Like Hell

20:37 Pursue Big Goals Relentlessly

In this episode of The Next Level Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Joey Munoz (@dr.joeymunoz) for a no-BS conversation about one of the biggest problems in the health and fitness space—misinformation.

We dive into:

• The villainization of certain foods and single ingredients—why so many people fear specific foods without understanding the full picture.
• How research studies actually work and why most people misinterpret them (spoiler: just because you read a study headline doesn’t mean you know the science).
• Why most diets fail—hint: it has a lot to do with extreme, polarizing opinions in the nutrition space.
• Practical, evidence-based guidelines to help you succeed without falling into the latest diet trend rabbit hole.
• The importance of nuance in fitness and nutrition—because nothing is ever black and white.

Dr. Joey is an expert in nutrition, metabolism, and evidence-based fitness. His approach cuts through the noise and helps people focus on what truly matters for long-term success.

This episode is packed with insights to help you develop a sustainable, balanced approach to nutrition—without getting caught up in misinformation.

Brad's Fit Dad Case Study - 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

Guest Dr. Joseph Munoz - @dr.joeymunoz

Next Level Nutrition – @mynextlevelnutrition

Episode Timestamps

00:00 Finding Passion in Nutrition Studies

04:14 PhD Insights: Embracing Uncertainty

06:32 Avoid Reading Studies: It's Complex

10:37 Processed Foods: Moderation and Nuance

13:53 Nutrition Missteps and Coaching Clarity

17:35 The Myth of Quick Fixes

19:49 "Orthorexia and Lifestyle Extremes"

24:46 Bread Myths and Weight Misconceptions

27:39 Excess Fat's Impact on Health

30:26 "Diet Quality vs. Health Impact"

33:31 Protein Intake Recommendations in Deficit

38:34 Understanding Metabolic Adaptation

41:14 Weight Loss Lowers Energy Expenditure

42:50 Sustainable Step Tracking for Weight Loss

46:05 Mindless Snacking and Physical Activity

50:38 Quality of Life vs. Weight Loss

53:29 Prescription Profit Concerns

57:34 "Sustainable Health & Fitness Guide"

In this episode of The Next Level Health & Fitness Podcast (formerly The Key Nutrition Podcast), Craig and I dive into the growing conversation around ADHD diagnosis. Craig, a licensed clinical therapist, has worked with countless individuals diagnosed with ADD/ADHD, and through his experience, he’s discovered that not everyone who receives this diagnosis truly has it. Before jumping to labels and medication, he believes in first addressing key health and wellness factors that can play a massive role in focus, attention, and overall mental health.

We also break down a powerful mental health supplement stack that can help support cognitive function, mood, and focus—things that everyone, diagnosed or not, can benefit from. If you’ve ever wondered whether you (or someone you know) really have ADHD or if other lifestyle and nutrition factors are at play, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

At the end of the episode, I also share an exciting new case study I’m running with a group of dads looking to get in great shape while balancing the challenges of fatherhood, partnership, and life. If you’re a dad who wants to level up physically without sacrificing the things that matter most, stay tuned!

Brad's Fit Dad Case Study - 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

Co-Host Craig Smith - @greatestdaymindset

Next Level Nutrition – @mynextlevelnutrition

Episode Timestamps

00:00 "Super Bowl Ad: Girls Flag Football"

05:34 Fitness Community for Busy Dads

08:24 Shifting Perspectives: A Quick Change

11:35 End of Dominance for Tight End

15:11 Referrals for Accurate ADHD Diagnosis

16:19 ADHD Misdiagnosis Realization

21:35 Misdiagnosis of IBS and ADHD

24:55 Fish Oil Buying Tips

27:16 Vitamin D and Mental Health

31:36 Vitamin Mutation and Conversion Limits

32:05 Methylation Issues and B Vitamin Deficiency

35:11 ADHD Rise: Distraction & Screens Influence

39:28 Sleep's Impact on Health and Recovery

43:45 L-Theanine for Relaxation and Calm

45:53 Supplements for Lifestyle Optimization

50:45 Daily Habits and Mental Health

51:25 Consider Medication If Challenges Persist

Ben Carpenter has been a personal trainer since 2006, working with a diverse range of clients—from young athletes aiming to become fitness models to elderly individuals striving to improve their longevity. Over time, he specialized in fat loss, recognizing it as the most common goal among his clients. To reach a broader audience, Ben began sharing content on social media in 2009, providing free, evidence-based fitness information. His videos now reach millions weekly. A self-described ‘research nerd,’ Ben excels at translating complex scientific concepts into practical advice. He is the author of Everything Fat Loss and the recently released Fat Loss Habits: The No Bullsht Guide to Losing Weight*. Originally from the UK, Ben now resides in California with his wife. You can find him on various social media platforms under the handle @bdccarpenter and on his website, bdccarpenter.com.

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

Ready to transform your life? Book a discovery call today and join the next round of the Next Level Experience!  - Book My Discovery Call

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 Ben Carpenter @bdccarpenter

Next Level Nutrition – @mynextlevelnutrition

Episode Timestamps

00:00 Client-Driven Fitness Research Journey

05:43 Navigating Sarcasm in Debunking Myths

08:51 Pivot to Scalable Content Creation

13:11 Passion Over Profit: A Choice

16:10 Influencer Fame and Changed Behavior

19:44 "Social Media's Engagement Trap"

21:22 "Reflecting on a Military Legacy"

23:51 Nerdy Exercise Science Chats

27:57 "Scientific Literacy vs. Health Scams"

32:18 Simplify Content for Audience

34:22 "Sustaining Long-Term Healthy Habits"

37:01 Environment Shapes Habits

41:19 "Rethinking 'Same 24 Hours' Myth"

45:30 Understanding Life's Priorities Beyond Fitness

48:28 "Excitement About Marriage Commitment"

52:13 Finishing PhD and Fatherhood Advice

53:30 Authenticity Over Expertise on Social Media

57:58 Cocaine-Themed Memoir Promotion