The Pain Free Athlete Podcast
Ready to break free from pain and take control of your recovery? Whether you're bouncing back from surgery or simply want to stay active without discomfort, this is the place for you! I'll share proven tips and strategies to help you move safely and confidently while working out. Plus, you’ll hear from top experts in fitness, rehabilitation, and pain management who are here to inspire and empower your journey to a pain-free, active lifestyle. Let’s get started!
Unlocking the Secrets of Sustainable Fitness with David Amerland (ep98)

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:
The psychological disconnect between health knowledge and actionThe role of personal motivation in building lasting fitness habitsHow martial arts foster resilience, discipline, and structureWhy fitness is a unique, personal journey for everyoneInnovative strategies for making fitness more ac...Illuminating Recovery: Dr. Carl Rothschild on the Power of Light Therapy (ep 97)

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:<...
The sh*t your mother never told you about menopause with Sarah Fuhrmann (ep 96)

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...
Reframing Pain: Movement, Posture, and Empowerment with Lara Heimann (ep 95)

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:
The importance of understanding movement mechanics and posture in daily lifeHow technology and modern lifestyles con...Unlocking Pain-Free Living: The Power of Online Physiotherapy with Thomas Olsen (ep 94)

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...
The Beat Pain Method: Healing Chronic Pain With Katie Rothwell (ep 93)

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...
How to Stay Pain-Free and Strong as an Endurance Athlete, with Dr. Jessie Duppler (ep 92)

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...
Pain Free Athlete + The Body Nerd : Myth-Busting Movement Magic with Dana Jones & Alexandra Ellis (ep 91)

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...
Beyond the Finish Line: Individualized Therapy, Mindset, and Community in Athletic Performance with Denise Smith, PT (ep 90)

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...
Healing Through Movement: The Psychology of Pain with Dr Tawny Kross (ep 89)

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...
Beyond the Injury: Empowering Recovery in Modern Sports with Erica Marcano (ep 88)

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...
Healing Hashimoto's Naturally: Insights from Primal Health Coach Chris Toto ep 87

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...
Revolutionizing Pain Recovery: Georgie Oldfield on Emotional Awareness and Self-Compassion (ep 86)

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.
...
Mind Over Matter: Exploring Pain and Resilience with Charlie Merrill (ep85)

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...
The Remade Athlete: Longevity Through Holistic Fitness With Steven Hicks - ep84

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
Stephen Hicks transitioned from athletics to wellness after a significant injury.Wellness is about participating in life, not just physical...Reclaiming Joy: Lindsay Masvaleix’s Path to a Pain-Free Life

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...
From the Gridiron to Guidance: Ernest Allen's Coaching Journey

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...
Overcoming Life's Hurdles: Otis Collier's Journey

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
Otis was born with a leg discrepancy...From Hands-On to Mind-Body: Coenie de Groot's Journey in Osteopathy and Neuroplastic Pain

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...
Streaks: A Double-Edged Sword

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...
The CoreSpring Method: A New Approach to Pilates with Charlyn Huss

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...
Unlocking Athletic Potential Through Reading

Summary
In this episode of the Pain Free Athlete Podcast, host Dana Jones shares her journey of reading and personal growth, focusing on insights from Pat Flynn's book, 'How to Be Better at Almost Everything.' She discusses the importance of generalism over specialization in athletics, the concept of skill stacking, and the significance of meta skills like discipline and focus. Dana emphasizes the need for minimalism in training to maintain intensity and prevent boredom, ultimately encouraging listeners to embrace a well-rounded approach to their athletic pursuits.
Podcast Disclaimer:<...
Unlocking the Secrets of Functional Nutrition with Eugene Smith

In this episode of the Pain Free Athlete Podcast, host Dana Jones speaks with Eugene Smith, a functional nutrition counselor, about his journey into nutrition, the importance of understanding individual dietary needs, and the impact of nutrition on athletic performance and recovery. They discuss various dietary trends, the significance of gut health, and the mind-body connection in wellness. Eugene also shares insights into cultural influences on eating habits and the programs he offers to help individuals achieve their health goals.
Takeaways:
Eugene's journey into functional nutrition began with a personal interest in...
Balancing Athletic Life: Empowerment and Recovery with Dr. Mary Burmeister

This episode emphasizes the vital connection between physical health, mental well-being, and empowerment in fitness. Dr. Mary Burmeister shares her journey as a collegiate athlete and the lessons she learned about burnout, nutrition, and the importance of holistic health practices, specifically tailored toward women.
• Discussing the impact of collegiate athletics on personal development
• Recognizing the dangers of an all-or-nothing mindset
• Implementing balance and self-care in fitness routines
• Exploring the crucial role of nutrition in performance and recovery
• Sleep as a key factor in athletic success
• Personal experiences with bodybuilding competitions and their challenges
• Empha...
Balancing Athletic Life: Empowerment and Recovery with Dr. Mary Burmeister

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This episode emphasizes the vital connection between physical health, mental well-being, and empowerment in fitness. Dr. Mary Burmeister shares her journey as a collegiate athlete and the lessons she learned about burnout, nutrition, and the importance of holistic health practices, specifically tailored toward women.
• Discussing the impact of collegiate athletics on personal development
• Recognizing the dangers of an all-or-nothing mindset
• Implementing balance and self-care in fitness routines
• Exploring the crucial role of nutrition in performance and recovery
• Sleep as a key factor in athletic success
• Personal experiences...
Unlocking Holistic Wellness with Dr. Njideka Olatunde

Discover the transformative power of touch and holistic healing with Dr. Njideka Olatunde, a trailblazer in the field of naturopathy and reflexology. Her journey from a childhood steeped in home remedies to becoming a social worker and ultimately a naturopathic practitioner is nothing short of inspiring. This episode explores her unique approach to managing pain and stress, emphasizing the mind-body connection and the role of reflexology as a potent tool in the healing arsenal. Dr. Olatunde's insights offer a fresh perspective on how paying attention to early signs of discomfort can serve as a preventive measure, setting the stage...
Overcoming Cancer and Embracing Holistic Health: Georges Cordoba's Inspiring Journey

Georges Cordoba shares his extraordinary journey of battling cancer, revealing how he shifted from traditional treatments to holistic practices guided by faith and a commitment to wellness. His story inspires listeners to take control of their health, emphasizing the importance of mindset, nutrition, and emotional support in the healing process.
• Georges's athletic background and early achievements
• The emotional and mental impacts of a cancer diagnosis
• Transitioning from conventional treatments to holistic approaches
• Importance of nutrition and pH balance in healing
• Connection between emotional well-being and physical health
• The role of support networks in recovery
...
Pain Signals and the Hidden Costs of Medication

This episode emphasizes the importance of the mind-body connection and discusses the role medications can play in distancing us from this awareness. It offers practical strategies for maintaining self-care during the holiday season, encouraging listeners to reconnect with their bodies and prioritize their well-being amidst stress and chaos.
• Exploring the impact of medication on the mind-body connection
• Understanding the interwoven relationship between thoughts, emotions, and physical sensations
• The importance of self-awareness in pain management and healing
• Navigating holiday stress and its effect on emotional well-being
• Tips for maintaining balance and self-care during the festive season
...
A Revolutionary Approach to Pain Management - Interview with Ani Papazyan

Curious about how athletes can overcome pain holistically? Join us as we welcome Ani Papazyan, the celebrated "body pain fixer," who shares her extraordinary journey from professional athlete in Armenia to a trailblazer in personalized pain management. Discover how Ani's innovative techniques, which blend medical massage, functional nutrition, and translational nutrigenomics, are helping athletes and active individuals target the root causes of their discomfort. Hear about her compelling success stories, such as resolving a client's knee pain that was surprisingly linked to digestive issues. This episode isn't just about pain management; it's also a testament to persistence, entrepreneurship, and...
Decoding the Mind's Source Code

Prioritizing Well-Being During Festive Times

Embrace a stress-free holiday season and stay true to your authentic self with essential self-care strategies. Discover how to maintain your well-being as Dana Jones, your host and certified personal trainer, navigates through the stressors of the festive period, from the mad rush of Black Friday to the serene moments of New Year. Whether it's the pressure of finding the perfect gift or managing your to-do list during time off, Dana promises to equip you with practical tips to prevent stress from turning into physical pain or tension. This episode offers a guide to acknowledging emotions and creating moments...
Exploring Family Ties: Rediscovering Body Image and Self-Acceptance

Unpacking the past can be an enlightening journey, especially when it reveals the roots of our self-image. As I sifted through my late parents' belongings, I stumbled upon my mother's old Weight Watchers guides and my father's hypnosis paraphernalia, triggering a flood of memories and reflections on how their struggles with weight influenced my own perceptions. Together with my brother, we revisit conversations that reveal our mother's critical views on weight and how those views shaped us. This personal exploration sheds light on growing up in a time when society was fixated on thinness, and how, at 55, I've come...
Navigating Grief and Growth: A Tribute to My Father's Wisdom in Pain-Free Living

Navigating the turbulent waters of grief, I share a deeply personal journey on this episode of the Pain-Free Athlete Podcast. After the recent passing of my father, I took a hiatus to embrace emotional vulnerability and engage with Tension Myositis Syndrome (TMS) without letting it overpower me. Reflecting on my father's wisdom—his belief in mindfulness and emotional awareness—I explore the growth and maturity gained since my mother's passing four years prior. This episode is a heartfelt tribute to my father's enduring influence, capturing the strength found in accepting that it's okay not to be okay and the resi...
Transforming Triathlons: Embracing Community and Joy in the DJFE Triathlon Race Series

Can you imagine a triathlon that swaps high-stress competition for a warm, communal experience? Welcome to the Pain-Free Athlete Podcast! I’m Dana Jones, and I'm here to share the inspiring journey of the 10th annual DJFE Triathlon Race Series. This special event emerged as a beacon of positivity and inclusion after the cancellation of the Ukiah Triathlon due to water shortages. Our series thrives on a family-friendly ethos, stripped of the anxiety of official timings and hyper-competitive placements. It’s the perfect setting for both seasoned sprint triathlon lovers and newcomers seeking camaraderie and the joy of racing with...
Transforming Health: Deborah Myers' Daily Energy Practices

Can the gentle touch of your fingertips transform your health? On this episode of the Pain-Free Athlete Podcast, explore this fascinating question with our inspiring guest, Deborah Myers. With over 30 years of experience in acupressure and Jin Shin Jyutsu, Deborah guides us through her journey from a curious college student to a seasoned energy medicine practitioner. She introduces her revolutionary "Daily Clean Your House Flow," a self-help acupressure technique that seamlessly fits into daily life and benefits everyone, from toddlers to seniors. Tune in for a life-changing experience!
Deborah Myers' Website
Deborah's Email
Stress Buster Video<...
Building a Pain-Free Body: Exercises for Strength and Mobility

Can you imagine a fitness routine that not only enhances your mobility but also alleviates pain? On this episode of the Pain-Free Athlete Podcast, we explore groundbreaking strategies from Peter Egoscue's postural therapy and Ben Patrick's full-range strength training. Egoscue's approach helps correct bodily misalignments to prevent compensatory pain, while Patrick's method builds strength across the entire range of motion, improving joint stability and reducing discomfort. We guarantee you'll come away with actionable insights to elevate your fitness journey and manage pain more effectively.
As we approach our special triathlon race on September 29th, marking our 10th anniversary...
Unveiling the Emotional Roots of Chronic Pain: A Journey with TMS

What if the root cause of your chronic pain isn't physical but deeply emotional? On this episode of the Pain-Free Athlete Podcast, I discuss a YouTube video of Dr. John Sarno's lecture. This episode is packed with insights that could be the missing link in your journey to recovery. Facing chronic pain means confronting emotional baggage head-on. Learn why being open to addressing past traumas is essential for genuine healing and hear powerful testimonials from a supportive community inspired by Dr. Sarno's wisdom. Don't miss out on this transformative conversation—remember to like and review the podcast!
Dr Sa...
Patience and Kindness: Lessons from our Three-Legged Hero

Missing an episode due to the chaos of the back-to-school season might have once sent me into a spiral of self-criticism, but through the growth and progress I’ve made in therapy, my reaction has evolved. This week, I share a vulnerable reflection on how therapy has shaped my response to small hiccups and celebrate a significant personal milestone—reading 49 books, inspired by the remarkable Jim Kwik. I also introduce you to the newest member of our family, Tripp, our courageous and resilient three-legged dog. Tripp’s journey post-amputation has been a profound source of learning about adjusting expectations and fi...
The Great Olympic (Final) Debate

What truly defines an Olympian? Join me, Dana Jones, as I challenge the conventional wisdom that medals are the ultimate measure of success on the Olympic stage. Through heartfelt discussions and personal anecdotes, we explore the immense pressures athletes face from audiences who often prioritize gold over effort. You'll hear about the controversies surrounding figures like Jordan Childs and be inspired by the relentless dedication of athletes such as Dara Torres and Martinus Evans. We delve into their emotional and mental battles, underscoring the importance of recognizing and celebrating their achievements, regardless of whether they step onto the podium...
Transforming Chronic Pain with Rapid Transformational Therapy featuring Stella Patterson

Discover how Rapid Transformational Therapy (RTT) can help you manage chronic pain and rewire your deepest beliefs with our special guest, Stella Patterson. Stella, a renowned RTT therapist from the UK, unravels the mysteries behind this innovative approach that blends NLP, cognitive behavioral therapy, and neuroscience through hypnosis. You'll learn how even a small belief in the power of change can lead to significant transformations, as illustrated by Stella's compelling client stories. The episode also highlights Stella’s own path from a corporate career to a fulfilling role in the healing arts, offering a beacon of hope for those se...