The Pain Free Athlete Podcast

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...

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.

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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...

In this episode of the Pain Free Athlete Podcast, host Dana Jones speaks with mental performance coach Ignacio Segovia about the importance of mental training for athletes. They discuss Ignacio's background, the significance of resilience, and how mental performance can enhance athletic capabilities. Ignacio emphasizes the need for athletes to enjoy their sport, navigate pressures, and develop a positive mindset. He introduces the Success Triangle, which includes mental, physical, and technical performance, and shares techniques to build a magnetic attitude for success.

Ignacio's Bio:

Ignacio Segovia is a passionate advocate for unlocking...

In this episode of the Pain Free Athlete Podcast, host Dana Jones speaks with Kelly McKenzie, a performance physiologist at Human Powered Health. They discuss the importance of understanding women's health and fitness, particularly during and after menopause. Kelly shares insights on strength training, body composition assessments, and the common misconceptions women face in their fitness journeys. The conversation emphasizes the need for tailored training approaches, the significance of community support, and practical tips for starting strength training at any age.

Kelly's Bio:

Kelly is a Performance Physiologist at...

In this episode of the Pain Free Athlete Podcast, host Dana Jones speaks with Dr. Zameer Pirani, a medical director and founder of Afiya Spine and Pain Institute. They discuss the growing need for chronic pain care in Canada, the complexities of pain management, and the importance of a holistic approach that includes mental health, lifestyle changes, and innovative treatments like PRP and hyaluronic acid. Dr. Pirani emphasizes the significance of patient education and empowerment in navigating pain management, as well as the role of nutrition and exercise in improving overall health and well-being.

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In this milestone 100th episode of the Pain Free Athlete Podcast, host Dana Jones reflects on her journey, the growth of the podcast, and the impact it has had on listeners. She expresses gratitude for the support received and shares insights gained from interviews with various experts in the field of healing and movement. Looking ahead, Dana outlines her vision for future episodes, focusing on topics such as nervous system regulation and trauma-informed recovery, while inviting the community to dream big together.

Dana’s Links:

⁠⁠https://www.painfreeathletepodcast.com⁠⁠

⁠⁠10...

In this conversation, Dana Jones shares her journey from being a chronic pain sufferer to becoming a fitness coach and advocate for the mind-body connection. She discusses the emotional aspects of pain, the importance of finding the right practitioners, and the various tools she uses to manage her pain. The conversation emphasizes the connection between emotional health and physical pain, and the significance of nature in finding peace.

Podcast Disclaimer:

The Pain-Free Podcast is presented solely for general information, education, and entertainment purposes. Any information presented in this podcast is not intended...

In this episode of the Pain Free Athlete Podcast, host Dana Jones speaks with fitness and wellness advocate Kayla Johnson, who shares her journey through the fitness industry, personal challenges, and the impact of perimenopause on women's health. They discuss the importance of community, nutrition, and mindset in achieving sustainable health and fitness goals, especially during midlife. Kayla emphasizes the need for women to prioritize self-care and to embrace their changing bodies with confidence, while also addressing common misconceptions about weight loss and hormonal changes. The conversation concludes with practical steps for listeners to take charge of their health...

In this episode of the Pain Free Athlete Podcast, host Dana Jones sits down with bestselling author and researcher David Amerland to delve into the real-world challenges of sustainable health and fitness. Together, they unpack the gap between knowing what’s good for us and actually making it happen in our daily lives.

Key Topics Covered:

In this episode of the Pain Free Athlete Podcast, host Dana Jones sits down with Dr. Carl Rothschild, a veteran chiropractor and the inventor of Trifecta Light Therapy. Dr. Rothschild shares his journey from traditional chiropractic care to pioneering the use of red and near-infrared light for healing and recovery. The conversation covers the science behind light therapy, its applications for athletes and everyday health, and the importance of mitochondrial health. Dr. Rothschild addresses skepticism, discusses the future of light therapy in healthcare, and shares real-world success stories from his practice.

Dr Carl's Links:<...

In this insightful episode, host Dana Jones sits down with menopause coaching specialist Sarah Fuhrmann to explore the unique challenges women experience during menopause. Together, they discuss the physical and emotional changes that can arise and the importance of adapting fitness and nutrition routines to meet new needs.

Sarah's Bio:

Sarah Fuhrmann is a Certified Menopause Coaching Specialist, Nutrition Coach, and functional aging expert who helps women in midlife and beyond train smarter, feel better, and reclaim their strength and confidence.
She’s the founder of SGF Coaching, wh...

In this episode of the Pain Free Athlete Podcast, host Dana Jones sits down with Lara Heimann, an international yoga pioneer, physical therapist, and founder of the LYT Method®. Together, they explore the critical role of movement, posture, and the body’s messages through pain. Lara shares her personal journey, the inspiration behind creating LYT Yoga, and her mission to bridge gaps in movement education while empowering people to connect more deeply with their bodies.

The conversation covers:

In this episode, host Dana Jones sits down with Thomas Olsen, founder of Embodied Health Physiotherapy, to explore the evolving landscape of online physiotherapy. Thomas shares his expertise on how virtual care can be just as effective as in-person sessions, and discusses the personalized approach he takes to ensure each patient receives a treatment plan tailored to their unique needs. The conversation covers the critical role of movement in recovery, the importance of interpreting pain and scan results correctly, and practical ways to use everyday items for rehabilitation. Thomas also addresses the global impact of chronic pain and advocates...

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...

Unlock the secrets to pain-free performance in this episode of the Pain Free Athlete Podcast. Host Dana Jones sits down with Dr. Jessie Duppler, a physical therapist and former competitive cyclist, to explore the unique challenges faced by endurance athletes-especially cyclists and runners-when it comes to pain management and rehabilitation.

Dr. Duppler shares her expert perspective on:

Recognizing and understanding pain patterns specific to endurance sports

The critical role of strength training in injury prevention and performance enhancement

How aging impacts athletic ability and recovery

Common injuries among cyclists...

What happens when two champions of movement, self-care, and pain-free living join forces? Get ready for a powerhouse collaboration between Alexandra Ellis-Body Nerd, self-care coach, and myself, Dana Jones, the host of the Pain Free Athlete Podcast.

Together, we are breaking down the barriers to living pain-free and empowered. Alexandra brings her deep expertise in exercise biology, physical therapy, and injury recovery, making complex body science accessible and actionable for everyone.

This special crossover episode is more than just a conversation-it’s a fusion of two unique perspectives on movement, wellness, and the science of fe...

In this episode of the Pain Free Athlete Podcast, host Dana Jones sits down with physical therapist Denise Smith to explore the power of personalized care in athletic performance and recovery. Denise shares her expert insights on injury prevention, the importance of balance and agility for runners, and how the right footwear can make all the difference. The conversation also highlights the vital role of mental health in training and the unique mindset of ultra runners. Tune in for actionable tips and inspiration, plus a look at Denise’s exciting projects aimed at educating providers and building stronger athletic co...

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...

In this episode of the Pain Free Athlete Podcast, host Dana Jones welcomes Erica Marcano, a seasoned certified athletic trainer and strength coach, for an in-depth discussion on the changing landscape of athletic training and rehabilitation.

The conversation centers on the importance of adopting a biopsychosocial approach to recovery—one that recognizes the interconnected roles of physical health, mental well-being, and social support in an athlete’s rehabilitation journey. Erica emphasizes how community and support systems can profoundly influence outcomes, advocating for athletes to actively participate and take ownership of their recovery process.

Key topics includ...

In this episode of the Pain Free Athlete Podcast, host Dana Jones interviews Chris Toto, a primal health coach who specializes in helping women with Hashimoto's disease. Chris shares his personal journey of battling Hashimoto's, the lifestyle changes that led to his recovery, and his mission to empower women to overcome autoimmune symptoms. The conversation covers the importance of proper medical support, dietary approaches, and the significance of self-education in health management.Cris' links:https://cristoto.com/register-ig  - masterclasshttps://www.facebook.com/ThePrimalItalianhttps://www.instagram.com/the.primal.italian/https://x.com/Coach_Toto7https://theprimalitalian.com/https://ww...

In this episode of the Pain Free Athlete Podcast, host Dana Jones interviews Georgie Oldfield, a pioneering physiotherapist and founder of SIRPA. Georgie shares her journey into the world of chronic pain treatment, her discovery of Dr. Sarno's work, and how it transformed her approach to pain management.

The conversation delves into the establishment of SIRPA, the evolution of training programs, and the importance of emotional awareness in chronic pain recovery. Georgie emphasizes the need for empathy and understanding in treatment, as well as the connection between unresolved emotions and chronic pain.

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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 Stephen Hicks about his journey from athletics to wellness. Stephen shares his personal experiences with injury and recovery, emphasizing the importance of overall wellness and the mind-body connection. He discusses the concept of holistic fitness, common misconceptions, and his nutritional practices aimed at supporting a healthy lifestyle. The conversation concludes with Stephen's future plans and an offer for listeners to access mindset resources.takeaways

Summary

In this episode of the Pain Free Athlete Podcast, host Dana Jones speaks with pain recovery coach Lindsay Masvaleix about her journey from chronic pain to recovery. Lindsay shares her personal experiences with debilitating back pain, the emotional toll it took on her life, and how she discovered the SIRPA approach to healing. They discuss the importance of understanding the mind-body connection, the role of self-care, and the significance of finding joy and balance in life. Lindsay emphasizes the need for gradual exposure to movement and the power of self-empowerment in overcoming pain...

In this episode of the Pain Free Athlete Podcast, host Dana Jones interviews Ernest Allen, a former professional football player turned strength and conditioning coach. They discuss Ernest's journey from college football to the NFL, the rigorous training and nutrition regimens athletes undergo, and the transition from athlete to coach. Ernest shares insights on the importance of proper nutrition, the evolution of training methods, and his coaching philosophy that emphasizes encouragement and communication. The conversation also touches on the significance of mentorship in the coaching profession and the need for athletes to maintain their natural movement patterns to prevent...

In this episode of the Pain Free Athlete Podcast, host Dana Jones interviews Otis Collier Jr., a human engineer coach who shares his inspiring journey of overcoming significant life challenges, including a birth defect and the loss of his mother. Otis discusses how these experiences shaped his approach to coaching, emphasizing the importance of building connections with clients and focusing on behavioral changes rather than strict macro counting. He offers valuable insights for anyone looking to start their fitness journey, highlighting the need for intrinsic motivation and personal goal setting.takeaways

In this episode of the Pain Free Athlete Podcast, host Dana Jones speaks with Coenie, an experienced osteopath, about his journey from traditional physical treatments to a deeper understanding of neuroplastic pain. Coenie shares insights on how pain is not just a physical issue but a complex interplay of emotional and social factors. He emphasizes the importance of treating the whole body and mind, integrating mindfulness and movement into pain management. The conversation also challenges traditional beliefs about pain and movement, advocating for a more holistic approach to healing. Coenie expresses his hopes for the future of pain management...

In this episode of the Pain Free Athlete Podcast, Dana Jones explores the concept of streaks, both in sports and personal life. She delves into the psychology behind why we are captivated by streaks, the pressure they create, and their impact on self-esteem. Dana also discusses the importance of recognizing when a streak ends and how to handle that emotionally, emphasizing the lessons learned and personal growth that comes from these experiences.

Dana’s Links:

https://www.painfreeathletepodcast.com

https://patreon.com/ThePainFreeAthletePodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&ut...

In this episode of the Pain Free Athlete Podcast, host Dana Jones interviews Charlyn Huss, co-creator of CoreSpring and creator of the CoreSpring method. Charlyn shares her personal journey with pain, movement, and the discovery of Pilates, detailing how her experiences shaped her approach to fitness and wellness. The conversation explores the cultural influences on body awareness, the evolution of Pilates training, and the integration of wellness into fitness practices. Charlyn emphasizes the importance of understanding the body and its needs, ultimately leading to the creation of her unique Pilates method that combines various modalities to promote pain-free movement...