In the season one finale of The Next Level Freedom Podcast, host Ray Mertens reflects on an incredible journey filled with inspiring guests and transformational conversations. This special episode is a heartfelt thank-you to the listeners who have supported the podcast, provided valuable feedback, and pursued their next level of freedom in life.

Ray announces a short holiday break to focus on creative contemplation and strategic planning for season two, which will debut in the first quarter of next year. With a commitment to delivering even more impactful content, he shares his gratitude for the audience’s hunger for growth and encourages them to continue striving for peace, love, and joy across all areas of life—finances, faith, fitness, family, and fun.

Whether you’re catching up or re-listening, this episode is a reminder that freedom is possible, one thought and one moment at a time. Don’t miss this uplifting conclusion to season one, and get ready for what’s next in 2025!

“I’m taking a short holiday break for some creative contemplation to make this podcast even better for you, my listener.” - Ray Mertens

Key Takeaways:

• Holiday Break

• Season Two Announcement

• Encouragement to Listeners

• Message of Hope

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On this episode of The Next Level Freedom Podcast, host Ray Mertens welcomes back Dr. Darla, an expert in hormone health and wellness, for an in-depth conversation on testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). After the tremendous response to their previous discussion, Dr. Darla returns to address listeners’ burning questions about TRT, its benefits, potential side effects, and natural ways to optimize testosterone levels.

Dr. Darla tackles common concerns like whether starting TRT means a lifelong commitment, how it impacts testicular size, and the myths around “testosterone rage.” The conversation dives into practical tips for maintaining hormonal balance naturally through exercise, diet, and stress management, while also exploring the medical nuances of TRT and its impact on quality of life. From preventing “man boobs” to understanding how testosterone affects muscle growth and energy levels, this episode is packed with actionable insights and science-backed advice.

Listeners will gain a clear understanding of the importance of regular blood work, working with a qualified physician, and monitoring overall health when considering TRT. Dr. Darla also shares how lifestyle changes—like ditching seed oils, incorporating testosterone-boosting foods like pumpkin seeds and oysters, and managing stress—can make a significant difference.

If you’ve ever wondered how to naturally raise your testosterone levels, what side effects to watch for, or whether TRT is right for you, this episode provides the answers. Don’t miss this informative and engaging discussion that’s sure to leave you empowered to take charge of your health and unlock your next level of freedom.

“Your body is like a machine—skip the maintenance, and it won’t run for long.” - Dr. Darla

Key Takeaways:

• TRT Is Not Always Lifelong:

• Testicular Shrinkage

• Improved Quality of Life

• Exercise and Nutrition

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The Hormone Connection

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In this episode of the Next Level Freedom Podcast, host Ray Mertens introduces his girlfriend, Tracy Harrison, and invites listeners to dive into their journey of growth, faith, and love. Tracy, a passionate educator and entrepreneur, shares her experiences as the founder of True Nature Kids, a nature-based enrichment program, and her role as the director of an Early Learning Center in Seattle. Together, Ray and Tracy explore how their relationship has become a platform for reaffirming and balancing their masculine and feminine energies, fostering both personal and spiritual development.

Ray and Tracy discuss the power of intentionality in relationships, highlighting a unique dating proposal that set the foundation for their connection. This approach, which included exclusivity, planned visits, and a 90-day no-touch agreement, allowed them to prioritize emotional and spiritual intimacy over physical distractions. Their story is a testament to the value of clear communication, mutual respect, and trust in God’s timing.

Listeners will also hear Tracy’s insights on leadership and resilience, including how she navigates daily challenges with a focus on emotional steadiness and reliance on God’s wisdom. From managing a fast-paced work environment to finding rest in faith, Tracy’s reflections offer practical and spiritual lessons for anyone seeking to balance their personal and professional lives.

This episode is more than a relationship story; it’s a journey of faith, vulnerability, and intentional growth. Whether you’re navigating the complexities of love, leadership, or life’s challenges, Ray and Tracy’s story provides wisdom and encouragement for your own path. Tune in to be inspired by their authenticity and learn how to embrace God’s purpose in your relationships and daily life.

“Rest is not just a state of action; it’s a state of being.”

Key Takeaways:

• Personal Growth Through Relationships

• Faith as a Foundation

• Dating with Intentionality

• The Journey to Partnership

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In this episode of the Next Level Freedom Podcast, host Ray Mertens pauses to express his gratitude to each listener who’s joined him on this journey. After a working vacation last week, Ray returns with a short message of appreciation for the ever-growing community that tunes in weekly to explore ways to reach the next level in faith, finances, fitness, family, and fun.

No regular episode this week—just a warm thank you to every listener who’s been part of the podcast’s journey toward freedom and growth. Ray shares a glimpse of what’s coming up: collaborative episodes with his girlfriend, Tracy, and housemates with whom he’s sharing life and inspiration.

Ray leaves listeners with a simple request: if the podcast has impacted you, please consider sharing it with a friend. Whether through social media, a quick text, or an email, help spread the word and keep the Next Level Freedom Podcast thriving. Thank you for being a part of this journey!

Tune in next Tuesday for more insights, motivation, and community.

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School of Freedom

In this special episode of the Next Level Freedom podcast, host Ray Mertens joins Claudia Klann on her podcast, the Abundant Joy Podcast, where he shares his personal journey through inner healing and transformation. Ray has spent the past decade on a journey of restoration, from dealing with deep wounds of fatherlessness and abandonment to reclaiming his masculinity and purpose through God’s guidance. Guided by Claudia’s inner healing sessions and grounded in the supportive brotherhood of the 100X community, Ray reveals the profound impact of addressing emotional and spiritual wounds to fully embrace his role as a husband, father, and servant of Christ.

Listeners will hear Ray’s story of how hitting rock bottom in his marriage led him to surrender to God’s call to “deal with his own stuff” rather than focus on others. He reflects on the life-changing moment of realizing that he needed inner healing to mend what was broken within himself. Ray recounts his participation in men’s groups, church gatherings, and inner healing workshops that gave him the courage to confront his past and embrace his identity as a beloved son of God. Claudia provides insight into how transformative these inner healing practices can be, illustrating their ability to uproot false beliefs and heal deep emotional wounds.

This episode also explores the journey of masculine restoration and the power of community in healing. Ray speaks passionately about the importance of men mentoring men and how God uses authentic brotherhood to shape and uplift masculine identity. For those feeling the weight of unresolved pain, abandonment, or disconnection, Ray’s story offers hope and a roadmap to healing and reclaiming purpose through faith. Claudia’s heartfelt guidance and powerful prayer over listeners serve as a reminder that inner healing is an ongoing journey towards wholeness, grounded in God’s love. Tune in to discover how Ray’s transformative story could inspire your own journey to freedom, faith, and fulfillment.

“The miracle of inner healing happens when we take the time and space to address our deepest wounds with the guidance of the ultimate Helper.”

Key Takeaways:

• Power of Inner Healing

• The Role of God as a Father

• Learning Masculine Identity

• The Role of Spiritual Community

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In this episode of the Next Level Freedom Podcast, host Ray Mertens sits down with Dr. Darla Logan, an accomplished physician, best-selling author, and the medical director and owner of Cell Med Clinics in Phoenix, Arizona. Dr. Darla, a graduate of Sonoran University with an MBA from New Mexico State University, brings her expertise as a naturopathic medical doctor to a discussion focused on the often-overlooked aspects of men’s health and mental well-being. Together, they dive into the ways low testosterone and hormone imbalances can impact not only physical health but also mood, motivation, and the overall quality of life.

Dr. Darla dispels the common misconception that men’s health is primarily about sexual performance. She explains how symptoms like fatigue, irritability, and low motivation often signal underlying hormone issues. She describes testosterone’s critical role in keeping men feeling balanced and energized, affecting everything from mental clarity to cardiovascular health. For many men, especially those who may feel off-track or “not like themselves,” Dr. Darla’s insights into hormone health are a game-changer. Her unique approach considers the entire endocrine system, going beyond just testosterone levels to address overall wellness with a holistic perspective.

Listeners will also hear about the importance of obtaining baseline health data early on, even if they feel fine. Dr. Darla explains how knowing your baseline testosterone and hormone levels can help you understand your body’s changes as you age, providing a valuable guide for the future. This episode is packed with actionable insights, especially for men who want to take control of their health, fitness, and mental well-being. Whether dealing with stress, feeling low energy, or simply wanting to stay proactive, Ray and Dr. Darla’s conversation offers a path to optimizing health and achieving next-level freedom in all areas of life.

“I like to say that hormones are like Goldilocks—you don’t want too little or too much; it needs to be just right.”

Key Takeaways:

• Men’s Health Beyond Sexual Dysfunction

• Individualized Hormone Levels

• Mental Health and Hormone Deficiency

• Testosterone and Heart Health

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In this episode of Next Level Freedom, Host Ray Mertens and guest Tim Holloway dive deep into the transformative journey of renewing the mind through Christ, inspired by Romans 12:1-2. They discuss how true spiritual transformation isn’t about fitting God into our busy lives but rather living with God at every moment. Ray emphasizes the importance of pausing and connecting with the Holy Spirit, recommending tools like the Wild at Heart Pause app, which helps create space for stillness and communion with God amidst life’s busyness.

The discussion takes listeners on a journey through the Gospel, highlighting how the message of Christ is not just about salvation, but about embodying His presence within us. Referencing Acts 17, Ray and Tim discuss how, in Christ, we live, move, and have our being—participating in God’s Hero’s Journey. The duo explores the often overlooked distinction between Jesus as the companion and Christ as the King of Glory. Ray shares a personal revelation of seeing Jesus not only as the humble carpenter but as the glorified Christ depicted in Revelation 1, a vision that deeply impacted his walk with God.

As the conversation unfolds, they tackle topics like breaking limiting beliefs, addressing inner programming, and embracing Kingdom ownership. Ray reflects on how life isn’t meant to be a constant struggle but a partnership with God, allowing His power to work through us. They discuss the significance of vulnerability and how opening up to God can bring profound healing and freedom. Tim shares his personal experiences of letting go of shame and encountering the transformative light of God in his life.

This episode invites listeners to engage in their own healing journey, moving beyond superficial faith and into a deep, restorative relationship with Christ. With practical steps, Tim and Ray encourage listeners to take time in solitude, asking God what He wants to reveal, and allowing space for God’s transformative work in their hearts.

“It isn’t about trying to fit God into your life; it’s about doing your life with God.”

Key Takeaways:

• Breaking Limiting Beliefs

• Simplicity in the Kingdom

• Self-Talk and Awareness

• Healing the Heart

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In this episode of the Next Level Freedom Podcast, host Ray Mertens, a flooring contractor from Whitefish, Montana, and guest Tim Holloway, shares his profound journey of heart healing and transformation. With over 15 years of experience on this personal journey, Ray discusses the powerful role of the heart in unlocking true freedom and potential in men. As he dives into the pillars of masculinity and the importance of heart work, Ray emphasizes how men can break free from external pressures and tap into the deep, inner strength that God has placed within them.

Ray explains how many Christian men are introduced to faith with a focus on escaping hell and going to heaven but miss the deeper journey of heart restoration and transformation. He shares personal reflections on his own faith experience, stressing the need for men to align their hearts with God’s plan and embrace the Christ within them. Ray’s approach challenges listeners to go beyond behavior modification or external coaching and instead focus on the restoration of the soul, which leads to real, lasting change.

Throughout the episode, Ray highlights key biblical insights, including the importance of seeking glory, honor, and immortality as mentioned in Romans 2:7, and the powerful truth that “Christ in us is the hope of glory.” He passionately encourages men to slow down, recognize, and explore this mystery within themselves, understanding that they carry resurrection life in their hearts. This episode is not just about spiritual reflection but also about how this heart transformation manifests in everyday life—impacting relationships, family, and business.

Whether you are seeking deeper faith, freedom, or understanding your identity in Christ, this episode provides a roadmap for tapping into the incredible power God has placed inside you. Ray’s powerful insights challenge men to embrace the good news of the gospel, leading them toward a life of effortless, yet profound, transformation.

“Our mandate as Christian men, as Kingdom men, is to bring heaven to earth.”

Key Takeaways:

• Heart Healing Journey

• Focus on Internal Work

• Bringing Heaven to Earth

• Personal Growth and Identity

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School of Freedom