The Pain Free Athlete Podcast

In this episode of the Pain Free Athlete Podcast, Dana Jones sits down with licensed professional counselor, EMDR therapist, and neurofeedback provider Eileen Borski to explore the powerful connection between the brain, body, and performance. Eileen shares how her work helps athletes and high performers reduce stress, improve focus, and support recovery by addressing the nervous system at its root.

Eileen also shares her personal journey from corporate finance to counseling, and how a desire to help people on a deeper level led her to brain-based therapy. She explains how neurofeedback can support athletes dealing with anxiety...

In this episode of the Pain Free Athlete Podcast, host Dana Jones welcomes Dr. Tawny Kross, a physical therapist and pain and wellness coach, for an in-depth conversation on the integration of psychology into physical therapy. Together, they explore how understanding pain from a psychological perspective can transform treatment, the impact of stress on pain management, and how pain perception evolves over time. Dr. Kross shares her experiences working with veterans and highlights the unique challenges they face with chronic pain. The discussion underscores the importance of a holistic approach to pain management—one that embraces emotional healing, body aw...

Replay ep 89: Run Smarter, Stay Stronger – Injury Prevention & the Mind-Body Connection with Denise Smith

What if the key to running stronger, longer, and pain-free had less to do with mileage—and more to do with how you move?

In this replay episode, I sit down with physical therapist and movement expert Denise Smith to break down what most athletes are missing when it comes to performance and injury prevention.

With over 20 years of experience, Denise shares how analyzing movement patterns, improving balance, and training reaction time can completely change the way...

In this episode of The Pain Free Athlete Podcast, Dana is joined again by longtime mind-body and women’s health expert Jennifer More, creator of The Dolphin Method and founder of the Power of the Pause menopause community on Facebook. They dive into how hormonal shifts in perimenopause and menopause impact the nervous system, pain perception, and everyday symptoms like anxiety, hip pain, sleep issues, and mysterious itching.

Drawing on over 30 years of experience supporting women through pregnancy, postpartum, and now menopause, Jennifer explains why our generation is the “guinea pig generation” that is finall...

In this insightful interview, Dr. Trevor Turner shares his journey from trauma surgery to regenerative orthopedics, emphasizing innovative treatments like PRP and laser therapy. Discover how personalized, minimally invasive approaches are transforming musculoskeletal care and empowering patients to regain mobility and avoid surgery.

Dr Trevor’s Bio:

Dr. Trevor Turner is a nationally recognized physician specializing in regenerative orthopedics, biologic therapies, and performance-focused musculoskeletal care. As the founder of CartiNova™, he has treated elite athletes, high-performance professionals, and active adults seeking minimally invasive alternatives to orthopedic surgery.

Dr...

In this episode of the Pain Free Athlete Podcast, host Dana Jones speaks with Tracy Kasper, founder of One Small Step Walks. Tracy shares her personal health journey, including her experiences with an autoimmune disease and the dietary changes that helped her regain control of her health. The conversation explores the importance of community in movement, the benefits of walking, and how to create a supportive environment for those looking to improve their health. Tracy emphasizes the significance of consistency over perfection and offers practical tips for starting a walking routine.

About Traci

In this episode of the Pain Free Athlete podcast, host Dana Jones speaks with Seren Jones, co-founder of the Black Swimming Association (BSA). They discuss the importance of water safety, the differences between swimming and water safety education, and the challenges faced by Black and minority communities in accessing swimming resources. Seren shares insights on the demographics most at risk for drowning, the psychological barriers to learning how to swim, and the cultural myths surrounding swimming in the Black community. The conversation emphasizes the need for community outreach, education, and the therapeutic aspects of learning to swim.

<...

In this episode of the Pain Free Athlete Podcast, host Dana Jones speaks with registered dietitian Stephanie Natchik about the critical role of nutrition in athletic performance. They discuss the evolution of athlete nutrition awareness, the impact of chronic stress on nutritional needs, and the importance of protein and energy availability for athletes. Stephanie shares practical steps for balancing nutrition and recovery, optimal meal timing, and the unique fueling needs of swimmers. The conversation emphasizes the necessity of proper nutrition for enhancing performance and overall health.

About Stephanie:

Stephanie...

In this episode of the Pain Free Athlete Podcast, host Dana Jones interviews Dr. Brett Hill, a chiropractor and entrepreneur who specializes in posture, movement, and brain health. Dr. Hill shares his journey from a small chiropractic practice to creating an online program that helps individuals improve their posture and overall health. The conversation covers common posture faults, their impact on performance, and practical tips for improving posture. Dr. Hill emphasizes the importance of foundational posture and offers simple exercises to help listeners become more aware of their body alignment.

Dr...

In this episode of the Pain Free Athlete Podcast, host Dana Jones speaks with Dr. Erin Brunelle, a mind-body physical therapist and pain recovery coach. They explore the integration of emotional awareness in physical therapy, the importance of safety in healing, and how understanding emotions as bodily sensations can aid in pain recovery. Dr. Brunelle shares her journey into mind-body therapy, emphasizing the need for curiosity and a shift in perspective regarding pain and healing.

About Erin:

Erin is a Mindbody Physical Therapist and Pain Recovery Coach specializing in helping people learn...

About Jim:

James P. Owen is an 85-year-old best-selling author, documentary film producer and recovering couch potato. His book, Just Move! A New Approach to Fitness After 50, was published in 2017 by National Geographic, and was named one of the year’s top five books on healthy aging by The Wall Street Journal.  Two of his documentary films,  The Art of Aging Well and SuperAgers: Growing Old, Living Young, aired on PBS nationwide and can be streamed at pbs.org. His newest film, The Virtuous Circle: The Key to a Healthier, Happier Life, will be airi...

In this episode of the Pain Free Athlete Podcast, host Dana Jones interviews Philip Kupins, CEO of the Pickle Juice Company. They discuss the unique properties of pickle juice that make it effective in preventing muscle cramps, the neurological basis of cramping, and the real-life impact of the product on athletes. Philip shares stories of how pickle juice has changed lives, the science behind its efficacy, and the company's commitment to authenticity and sustainability. The conversation also covers practical advice for athletes on how to use pickle juice effectively during sports activities.

About Filip:<...

In this episode of the Pain Free Athlete Podcast, host Dana Jones speaks with Renee Moten, a certified personal trainer and knee pain specialist. They discuss Renee's journey from personal pain to helping others, the importance of understanding the kinetic chain in knee health, common mistakes people make in self-treatment, and the dangers of cortisone injections. Renee shares success stories from her clients, explains the concept of 'bone on bone' in knee health, and offers practical advice for those experiencing knee pain. The conversation concludes with insights into Renee's innovative knee pain relief strap and her upcoming book.

In this episode of the Pain Free Athlete Podcast, host Dana Jones speaks with Jen Oliver, the operations and athlete manager at Switch 4 Good. They discuss the importance of plant-based nutrition for athletes, the challenges of fueling for endurance sports, and the significance of training the gut for optimal performance. Jen shares insights on advocating for dairy-free options in schools and the future of plant-based nutrition in athletics, emphasizing the need to normalize these choices in society.

About Jen:

Jen Oliver is the Director of Operations and Athlete Manager at Switch4Good...

In this episode of the Pain Free Athlete Podcast, host Dana Jones speaks with Nadia Ruiz, an accomplished athlete and coach, about her journey in fitness, the evolution of her mind-body connection, and the importance of recovery. Nadia shares insights on the emotional aspects of racing, her teaching and coaching philosophy, and how to help athletes overcome past traumas. She emphasizes the significance of small steps in achieving fitness goals and encourages listeners to embrace their journey, regardless of age or experience.

As a Los Angeles native, Nadia Ruiz is an educator, coach, and co...

In this episode of the Pain Free Athlete Podcast, host Dana Jones speaks with Nida Tansinsin, a physical therapist and chronic pain coach, about her journey from athletic training to physical therapy. They discuss the neuroplastic mind-body approach to pain management, the importance of understanding pain sensations, and the role of mental health in physical recovery. Nida shares insights on navigating fear and anxiety in sports, the significance of compassion in healing, and reframing pain as 'sore but safe.' The conversation concludes with Nida's future plans for sharing resources and strategies for healing.

...

In this episode of the Pain Free Athlete Podcast, host Dana Jones speaks with chronic pain specialist Katie Rothwell about her personal journey with chronic pain and the development of the Beat Pain Method. The conversation explores the multifaceted approach to pain management, including the importance of understanding the mind-body connection, tailored therapies, and the emotional burdens often faced by mothers. Katie shares success stories from her clients, illustrating the transformative power of her method, which combines neuroscience, nutrition, and movement to empower individuals to live pain-free lives.

Katie's Bio:

Katie Rothwell i...

In this episode of the Pain Free Athlete Podcast, host Dana Jones speaks with Charlie Merrill, a physical therapist and founder of Merrill Performance. They discuss the integration of mind-body therapy in treating pain, particularly for athletes. Charlie shares his journey into this field, influenced by the works of John Sarno and Howard Schubiner, and emphasizes the importance of belief in recovery. The conversation explores the psychological aspects of pain, the role of neuroplasticity, and the need for athletes to unlearn harmful narratives about their bodies. Charlie also highlights the significance of understanding the emotional impact of training and...

In this episode of the Pain Free Athlete Podcast, host Dana Jones speaks with Rachel Robertson, a kinesiologist and Pilates specialist, about her journey in helping individuals recover from injuries through movement. Rachel shares her insights on the importance of Pilates in injury recovery, the emotional aspects of healing, and how to empower clients to take an active role in their recovery process. The conversation delves into the significance of body awareness, posture, and the connection between physical and emotional health in the journey towards pain-free movement.

About Rachel

<...

In this episode, Dana Jones welcomes Dr. Raeeda Gheewala, also known as "The Kidney Queen," to discuss the vital connection between kidney health and athletic performance. Dr. Gheewala is a board-certified nephrologist and founder of Sports Nephrology, the only international sports clinic dedicated to athlete kidney health. They explore:

This episode features a deep dive into unconventional training with Shawn Richardson, inventor of the BAMF Hammer—a versatile tool designed to build rotational strength, power, and mobility across all athlete backgrounds. Shawn shares his journey from an acting career to fitness innovation, and Dana explores how functional movement supports injury prevention and lasting resilience.​

Shawn is the founder of BAMF Hammer, combining a lifelong passion for movement, comic book inspiration, and practical training experience. After transitioning from acting to fitness, he developed the BAMF Hammer to fill gaps he noticed in mainstream gym equi...

This roundtable dives into women's health and performance, with leading guests discussing how female athletes break barriers in sports and overcome challenges tied to training, nutrition, mental health, and identity. Host Dana Jones moderates a lively panel with Dr. Abbey DeBruin (orthopedic surgeon), Alex Larson (dietitian and endurance athlete), and Katie Armstrong (hormone health coach), exploring topics such as the unique needs of women's physiology, cycle tracking, injury prevention, and the power of positive role models. The conversation wraps with practical advice for athletes at all stages—championing muscle-building, balanced nutrition, and embracing authentic self-expression on the journey to li...

About William Person

William Person is a former nine-year Team USA Bobsled athlete whose career left him battling the devastating effects of CTE. At his lowest point, he could barely get up off the floor, lost in confusion, depression, and deteriorating brain. Hope came when he discovered Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, which restored clarity in his thinking, color to his vision, and purpose to his life. Today, William is on a mission to raise awareness of brain damage in sports, the importance of protecting and healing the brain, and he’s on a mission to open a nonprofit CTE Rec...

In this episode of the Pain Free Athlete Podcast, host Dana Jones speaks with Dr. Kate Mihevc Edwards, a physical therapist and expert in running medicine. They discuss Dr. Mihevc Edwards' personal journey with a rare heart condition, ARVC, and how it has shaped her identity as an athlete and a parent. The conversation delves into the psychological aspects of being a runner, the importance of emotional support during recovery, and the introduction of the Run Source app, designed to assist runners in managing injuries and improving their training. The episode emphasizes the need for understanding the mental health...

In this episode of the Pain Free Athlete Podcast, host Dana Jones speaks with Andrew Colsky, a behavioral sleep clinician, about the critical role of sleep in overall health, particularly in relation to chronic pain and anxiety. They discuss various techniques for improving sleep quality, the impact of technology on sleep, and the importance of sleep hygiene. Colsky also addresses common misconceptions about melatonin and offers insights into navigating sleep challenges across different life stages.

Andrew's Bio:

Andrew Colsky, a distinguished attorney and licensed mental health clinician, is a pioneering force in the field of...

In this powerful roundtable discussion, host Dana Jones is joined by Shelly Cannon, Denise Smith, and Andrea Lepcio to explore how strength training and functional movement can transform aging into an empowering journey. Together, they debunk myths about fitness after 40, share key movements for lifelong mobility (like squats, hip hinges, and floor transfers), and discuss the mindset shifts needed to stay strong, resilient, and pain-free for life. From cancer recovery to Parkinson’s breakthroughs, these stories highlight the power of movement, mindset, and community in building true longevity.

Perfect for anyone who wants to age strong, live em...

In this episode of the Pain Free Athlete Podcast, host Dana Jones speaks with Alyssa Hermann and Alyssa Acompora, founders of Beyond the Athlete, a coaching platform dedicated to supporting former athletes in their transition out of sports. The conversation explores the challenges athletes face when leaving competitive sports, including identity crises, burnout, and the need for community support. The founders share their insights on coaching strategies, the importance of holistic wellness, and the creation of a supportive environment for former athletes to thrive beyond their athletic careers.

Alyssa Hermann, CEO

Former...

This episode features a deep dive into unconventional training with Shawn Richardson, inventor of the BAMF Hammer—a versatile tool designed to build rotational strength, power, and mobility across all athlete backgrounds. Shawn shares his journey from an acting career to fitness innovation, and Dana explores how functional movement supports injury prevention and lasting resilience.​

Shawn is the founder of BAMF Hammer, combining a lifelong passion for movement, comic book inspiration, and practical training experience. After transitioning from acting to fitness, he developed the BAMF Hammer to fill gaps he noticed in mainstream gym equi...

In this episode of the Pain Free Athlete Podcast, host Dana Jones speaks with Chad Dunn, co-founder and CEO of Move Human Performance Center. Chad shares his transformative journey from overcoming personal adversity, including time spent in prison, to becoming a behavioral change specialist in the field of health and sports performance. The conversation delves into the importance of mindset, behavior change, and resilience in both personal recovery and athletic performance. Chad emphasizes the need for a supportive environment and the role of coaching in developing young athletes' character and critical thinking skills. He also discusses strategies for long-term...

In this episode of the Pain Free Athlete Podcast, host Dana Jones speaks with kinesiologist and yoga therapist Bobby Lollich about her journey through concussion recovery and the holistic approaches she employs to help athletes and individuals heal. Bobby shares her personal experience with a concussion, the importance of yoga therapy in recovery, and how she integrates nutrition and movement into her practice. The conversation also touches on the athleticism of Highland dance and the need for better communication regarding recovery needs among athletes.

Bobbi's Bio:

Bobbi Lalach is a certified Kinesiologist a...

In this episode of the Pain Free Athlete Podcast, host Dana Jones speaks with Andrea Hall, a pain recovery coach, about her journey from chronic pain to recovery. Andrea shares her experiences with pain reprocessing therapy, the emotional and structural aspects of pain, and the importance of a supportive medical team. They discuss neuroplasticity, tools for managing pain, and the significance of enjoying life despite challenges. Andrea emphasizes that no one should have to live in chronic pain and encourages listeners to seek help and find joy in their lives.

Andrea's...

In this episode of the Pain Free Athlete Podcast, host Dana Jones sits down with Lori Oliver and Jill MacRae, co-founders of The Inactive Company, to explore why quality sleep is the ultimate performance enhancer. They share the story behind their innovative Inactivator Sleep Mask, break down the science of sleep and recovery, and reveal why even elite athletes are turning to simple tools for better rest. Tune in to discover how upgrading your sleep can transform your training, recovery, and everyday energy.

Bios: Lori Oliver, Co-Founder & CEO of The Inactive Company, a sleep per...

In this episode of the Pain Free Athlete Podcast, host Dana Jones welcomes Cathy Spaas, a former elite international show jumper turned HSP advocate and coach. Cathy shares her journey from the pressures of high-level competition to empowering highly sensitive individuals to embrace their unique strengths. Discover how Cathy helps top professionals worldwide step into the spotlight with calm, confidence, and clarity. Tune in to learn about the superpowers of highly sensitive people and how to harness them for personal and professional success.

Cathy's Bio

Cathy Spaas is an HSP advocate and...

Elite mental performance coach Reanna Karp joins Dana Jones to discuss her holistic, human-first approach to empowering female athletes. Reanna shares insights from her decade of mental health and sports psychology experience, including her strategies for building self-worth, resilience, and joy through visualization, breathwork, and emotional training. The conversation dives into performance culture, burnout, the importance of fun, and practical mindset shifts for athletes, coaches, and parents. Reanna and Dana explore how reframing pressure, fostering self-expression, and prioritizing emotional well-being lead to happier, stronger athletes on and off the court.Reanna's Bio:Reanna Karp is a Mental Performance Coach...

Join host Dana Jones and a panel of experts as they delve into the science behind effective recovery for athletes. This engaging roundtable explores evidence-based strategies, debunks common myths, and shares practical advice to optimize recovery and performance.Key Takeaways:Recovery is not just rest; it's a critical component of athletic success. The importance of sleep, mindset, and personalized recovery techniques. Insights into mental performance and the role of mindfulness in recovery.Guests:Dr. Matthew Cifellihttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-cifelli-pt-dpt-cscs-712358229/As early as high school, Matthew Cifelli had a fascination with the mechanics of the human body. When...

In this episode of the Pain Free Athlete Podcast, host Dana Jones speaks with Rachel Heath-Porsz, founder of Rebound Athletic, about her journey with long COVID and how it inspired her to create a movement coaching platform for those with chronic illnesses. Rachel shares her personal experiences, the emotional challenges of losing her athletic identity, and the mind-body techniques that aided her recovery. The conversation emphasizes the importance of empathy in coaching, the skepticism surrounding alternative healing methods, and the integration of traditional and alternative approaches to health. Rachel explains the structure of her programs designed to help clients...

In this episode of the Pain Free Athlete Podcast, host Dana Jones speaks with Jennifer Schwartz, a neuromuscular therapy expert, about her journey in fitness and injury recovery. They discuss the importance of muscle activation techniques, the role of hydration and isometrics in recovery, and the need for a holistic approach to fitness that includes emotional well-being. Jennifer emphasizes the significance of feet in athletic performance and shares practical tips for managing joint pain and mobility. The conversation highlights the importance of self-directed fitness and enjoying the process for long-term success.

Jennifer's Bio:

In this episode of the Pain Free Athlete Podcast, host Dana Jones speaks with Jennifer Moore, a global leader in prenatal and postnatal wellness. They discuss Jennifer's journey into prenatal yoga, the importance of preparation for childbirth, and the impact of stress on health. Jennifer shares her insights on the physical changes postpartum, the 4D breath method, and how integrating breath with movement can aid recovery. The conversation emphasizes the mind-body connection and the need for trauma-informed care in women's health.

Jennifer Bio:

Jennifer More is a global leader in prenatal and...

In this episode of the Pain Free Athlete Podcast, host Dana Jones speaks with DJ Leveille, an engineer and fitness enthusiast, about the importance of EMF safety in workout gear. DJ shares his journey of discovering the potential dangers of electromagnetic frequencies (EMF) from wireless devices and how it led him to create MGNX Activewear, designed to protect athletes while they train. The conversation covers the science behind EMF, cultural differences in awareness between the US and Europe, personal motivations stemming from family experiences, and practical advice for minimizing EMF exposure in daily life.

...

In this first Roundtable episode of the Pain Free Athlete Podcast, host Dana Jones brings together a panel of experts to explore the often-overlooked role of emotional expression in sports. Olympic equestrian Nina Ligon, surfer and content creator Penny Johnson, and performance psychology practitioner Stephanie High share their personal journeys and insights on how embracing emotions can enhance athletic performance. From the power of vulnerability to the importance of mental training, this conversation delves into the transformative impact of emotional awareness in sports. Join us as we uncover how emotions can be a superpower for athletes, fostering resilience, connection...