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The Next Level Health & Fitness Podcast

Latest episodes

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Jul 4, 2025 • 56min

NLP688 - Why You’re Struggling with Fat Loss: A Conversation with Andres Ayesta

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
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Jul 1, 2025 • 59min

NLP687 - Don’t Let Opinions Crush You + Outsmarting High-Calorie Restaurant Meals

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
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Jun 27, 2025 • 52min

NLP686 - Life Design, Self-Belief, and Radical Growth with Andrew Finnefrock

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
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Jun 24, 2025 • 24min

NLP685 - From Pain to Purpose: Turning Your Mess into Your Message

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
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Jun 20, 2025 • 26min

NLP684 - Dads, Your Kids Are Watching - Lead by Example with Your Health

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
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Jun 17, 2025 • 1h

NLP683 - Teenage Weight Loss, Creatine Questions, Affirmations, Picky Eaters & Finding Spirituality After Religion + more Q&A

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
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Jun 13, 2025 • 1h 6min

NLP682 - The Gap Between Who You Are and Who You’re Meant to Be

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
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Jun 10, 2025 • 56min

NLP681 - Choosing Growth over Comfort: Hard Truths on Change with Trevor Kochever

In this episode, I sit down with my best friend, Trevor Cochever, for a real, raw, and wide-ranging conversation. If you missed Trevor’s story of overcoming drug addiction and rebuilding his life, we’ll link that in the show notes—it’s a powerful listen. But today, we pivot from the past and dive straight into the tough realities and powerful breakthroughs that come from major life changes, breakups, and the relentless pursuit of self-improvement. We talk about what it looks like to stop settling for mediocrity, trade comfort for growth, and the real value of investing in yourself—mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Trevor and I open up about sacrificing comfort for what really matters, the dangers of living on autopilot, and how to move from just wanting a better life to truly valuing and prioritizing it. We share stories about overcoming setbacks, navigating fear, and the inner work needed to break old patterns—plus, we cover everything from snoring and health hacks to business investments, parenting, and protecting what’s precious. There’s plenty of humor, hard truths, and practical tools to help you get unstuck and onto your next level—whatever that looks like for you. If you’re ready to stop settling, find deeper fulfillment, and surround yourself with the right people, tune in and let’s get after it.   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 Trevor Kochevar - @trevorkochevar Next Level Nutrition – @mynextlevelnutrition   Episode Timestamps 00:00:00 – Brad Jensen kicks off the show, introduces Trevor Cochever, and reminisces about Trevor’s last appearance and personal story. 00:01:39 – Trevor reveals being on the brink of a breakup during his last episode and discusses the challenges and emotions involved. 00:04:48 – The duo dives into a humorous discussion about snoring, sharing personal stories and observations. 00:06:09 – Exploring sleep apnea, mouth taping, and nighttime routines for better quality sleep. 00:08:26 – Brad announces open enrollment for the Next Level Experience and emphasizes the pain of settling for mediocrity. 00:12:14 – Trevor speaks about referring a friend (Cass) to the program and reflects on personal growth through community and guidance. 00:15:51 – Conversation shifts to investing in self-improvement, stepping out of comfort zones, and the value of pushing through fear. 00:19:42 – Brad reflects on moments of comfort versus long-term complacency, using spa days and former sports fandom as examples. 00:25:19 – Discussion on prioritizing values, presence with family, and how healing and personal priorities shift over time. 00:28:06 – Trevor shares how habits like meditation, journaling, and the gym became true values, not just wishes. 00:39:36 – Brad and Trevor discuss balancing physical fitness with inner work, warning against making outward appearance the sole source of self-worth. 00:47:34 – Brad plays a Chris Williamson clip on sacrificing lifestyle for money, sparking a deep dive on the “bar stool upside down” principle.
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Jun 6, 2025 • 32min

NLP680 - Rewiring Fear: What If It’s Not a Sign to Stop… But a Signal to Start?

We’ve all felt it—that knot in your stomach, the second-guessing, the urge to play small. Fear shows up fast and loud anytime you’re about to do something big. But what if fear isn’t something to avoid… what if it’s the exact sign you’re on the right path? In today’s episode, I break down fear in a way you may have never heard before. We’ll dive into the real reason fear exists, the difference between fear of failure and fear of success, and how to reframe fear as fuel instead of a roadblock. This isn’t just mindset talk—this is about stepping into the version of you that’s been playing in the background for way too long. If you’ve been feeling pulled toward something greater, but fear is holding you back… this episode is for you. What you’ll learn: Why fear often means you’re exactly where you need to be The surprising difference between fear of failure and fear of success How to take aligned action—even when your palms are sweaty A story of someone who leaned into fear—and changed their entire life The Next Level Experience is now enrolling. If this episode hit home, book your discovery call now. 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
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Jun 3, 2025 • 51min

NLP679 - He Lived Through 6 Overdoses – My Deep-Dive Interview with Shawn Rivers (Re-Air)

This episode is a ree-air from my recent appearance on The Shawn Rivers Podcast, titled “He Lived Through Six Overdoses to Tell His Story of Sobriety.” But this wasn’t just another interview about my past. Yes — we touched on my journey through addiction and the chaos I survived. But it was the questions Shawn asked after that part of the story that really hit me. They weren’t the usual surface-level ones. They were the kind that made me pause and think… deeply. About sobriety, yes — but also about leadership, growth, my approach to fitness, and what it really means to live at the next level. This episode will hit home for anyone who’s ever battled their demons… But it’s also for the high-performers who want more — more peace, more purpose, and more alignment in their life. You’ll walk away with: New insights on the real cost of chasing the wrong things How to stop performing for the world and start living for yourself And why living in integrity is the highest form of personal power Tune in. This one goes deep   Register for our June 3rd masterclass - click 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

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