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Beyond The Pain

Leigh Brandon

Beyond The Pain is your guide to uncovering the real root causes of chronic pain and reclaiming a life without limits. Hosted by Leigh Brandon—Functional Medicine Practitioner, CHEK Faculty Instructor, and author with nearly 30 years of experience—this show explores the physical, emotional, nutritional, and environmental drivers of pain. Through expert interviews and solo insights, you’ll discover holistic strategies that heal, empower, and transform where conventional methods fall short.

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#234
Monday · 1 hr 6 min
Sciatica Relief: Why Traditional Treatments Fail & What Works Differently | Dean Volk
What if the key to overcoming sciatica isn't stretching, massaging or treating the painful side of your body, but working on the opposite side instead? In this episode of Beyond The Pain, Leigh Brandon is joined by physical therapist and sciatica specialist Dean Volk, MPT, who shares how he transformed his approach to treating persistent sciatic pain after discovering a method that challenged much of what he had learned during his clinical training. Dean explains why conventional treatments sometimes provide only temporary relief, how the body develops compensatory movement patterns in response to pain, and why focusing exclusively on the painful area may overlook important contributing factors. Leigh also shares his personal experience of recovering from a severe lumbar disc herniation, foot drop and debilitating sciatic symptoms, highlighting the importance of patience, persistence and understanding the role of the nervous system in recovery. In this episode, you'll discover: Why sciatica can persist despite physiotherapy, chiropractic treatment, injections or surgery. How Dean's unconventional approach focuses on the less painful side of the body. Why compensatory movement patterns and muscular imbalances may contribute to persistent symptoms. How the brain and nervous system influence pain, protective guarding and movement. Why disc bulges and degenerative changes don't necessarily mean lifelong pain. The importance of individual assessment rather than generic sciatica exercises. How understanding your body can help you take a more active role in recovery. Whether you've been experiencing sciatica for weeks, months or years, this conversation offers a different perspective on persistent pain and the possibilities for recovery. Connect with Dean Volk Sciatica Relief Now: https://sciaticareliefnow.net/ Free 3-Day Sciatica Proof Lab: https://sciaticaprooflab.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SciaticaReliefNow Connect with Leigh Brandon Beyond The Pain book: https://amzn.to/4y2HVWg Beyond The Pain 14-Day Programme: https://bodychek.co.uk/beyond-the-pain-programme/ Consult with Leigh: https://www.bodychek.co.uk/consultation Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyondthepainpod/ 🎁 ART NOVEMBER SPECIAL OFFER If you're based near Hoddesdon, Hertfordshire, you can book an Active Release Techniques (ART) session at Leigh's previous treatment rate until 30th November 2026. Discount code: ARTNov Book here: https://bodychekschedule.as.me/ART1Hour Disclaimer: This episode is for educational purposes and does not replace individual medical assessment or treatment. Persistent or worsening neurological symptoms should be assessed by a qualified healthcare professional.
#233
November 2 · 1 hr 3 min
Biofeedback for Chronic Pain: How the Mind-Body Connection Can Help You Heal | Cindy Perlin
What if changing the way your nervous system responds to stress and pain could help you experience less suffering? In this episode of Beyond The Pain, Leigh Brandon speaks with chronic pain survivor, author and certified biofeedback practitioner Cindy Perlin about her remarkable journey from debilitating back pain to discovering the power of biofeedback and the mind-body connection. Cindy shares how her life changed when she began to understand that fear, worry and emotional stress could influence her experience of pain. After years of unsuccessful treatments, she discovered biofeedback and learned how relaxation, self-awareness and changes in her physiological responses could support her recovery. We explore why pain isn't always a reliable indicator of tissue damage, how the nervous system can amplify pain signals, and why understanding the relationship between thoughts, emotions and physical sensations can be an important part of overcoming persistent pain. Cindy also discusses a separate fourteen-year struggle with foot pain, highlighting why chronic pain is complex and why psychological and physical factors both deserve consideration. If you're living with persistent pain and feel frustrated by treatments that haven't worked, this conversation offers a different perspective on understanding pain and becoming an active participant in your recovery. In this episode, we discuss: Cindy's personal journey through years of debilitating chronic back pain. How Norman Cousins' book changed her perspective on healing. What biofeedback is and how it can help people regulate physiological responses. The relationship between fear, stress, the nervous system and pain. Why pain is not always a direct measure of physical damage. How relaxation and self-awareness can influence pain perception. The importance of recognising potential physical contributors to persistent pain. Why a whole-person approach may offer more options for recovery. Connect with Cindy Perlin Alternative Pain Treatment Directory: https://www.paintreatmentdirectory.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetruthaboutchronicpaintreatments/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PainTreatmentDirectory Connect with Leigh Brandon Beyond The Pain book: https://amzn.to/4y2HVWg Book a consultation: https://www.bodychek.co.uk/consultation Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyondthepainpod/ 🎁 ART NOVEMBER SPECIAL OFFER If you're based near Hoddesdon, Hertfordshire, you can book an Active Release Techniques (ART) session at my previous treatment rate until 30th November 2026. Discount code: ARTNov Book here: https://bodychekschedule.as.me/ART1Hour If you found this conversation valuable, please follow Beyond The Pain, share the episode with someone who may benefit, and leave a review to help more people discover a different approach to understanding persistent pain.
#232
October 26 · 1 hr 21 min
Crohn's Disease Recovery: How Diet, Lifestyle & Functional Medicine Changed Jen Germain's Life
What if being diagnosed with a lifelong chronic illness didn't mean giving up hope of feeling healthy again? In this episode of Beyond The Pain, Leigh Brandon speaks with functional medicine health coach Jen Germain about her remarkable journey from being diagnosed with Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis to transforming her health through nutrition, lifestyle changes and a more personalised approach to wellbeing. In 2020, Jen was experiencing debilitating digestive symptoms, extreme fatigue, brain fog and joint pain. After being told she would likely need medication for the rest of her life, she began exploring functional medicine and working with a health coach to address the lifestyle factors that might be contributing to her symptoms. By changing her diet, adopting an autoimmune protocol and focusing on her overall wellbeing, Jen experienced significant improvements in her energy, digestion and quality of life. She shares how she subsequently came off medication and has remained free from flare-ups according to her own account. Together, Leigh and Jen explore the relationship between gut health, inflammation and persistent pain, the importance of personalised nutrition, and why taking an active role in your health can make such a difference. Jen also explains how her experience inspired her to become a certified health coach, helping others navigate their own health challenges. In this episode, you'll discover: How Jen's Crohn's disease diagnosis changed her life. The connection between gut health, inflammation, fatigue and joint pain. Why Jen decided to explore functional medicine. How dietary and lifestyle changes affected her symptoms. The value of personalised health coaching and ongoing support. Why sustainable health improvements involve more than managing symptoms. If you're living with persistent pain, digestive problems or chronic illness, this conversation offers a personal perspective on recovery, self-responsibility and the potential benefits of making meaningful lifestyle changes. Connect with Jen Germain Website: https://www.compasshealthcoachingllc.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifergermain/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/compasshealthcoachingllc/ Connect with Leigh Brandon Book — Beyond The Pain: https://amzn.to/4y2HVWg Consult with Leigh: https://www.bodychek.co.uk/consultation Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyondthepainpod/ Disclaimer: This episode shares an individual's experience and is intended for educational purposes. Crohn's disease requires appropriate medical monitoring, and changes to prescribed medication should always be discussed with the treating healthcare team.
#231
October 19 · 1 hr 12 min
How the Hypothalamus Affects Chronic Pain, Hormones & Stress | Deborah Maragopoulos
How the Hypothalamus Affects Chronic Pain, Hormones & Stress | Deborah Maragopoulos Could a tiny part of your brain be playing a much bigger role in your chronic pain than you realise? In this episode of Beyond The Pain, Leigh Brandon is joined by Deborah Maragopoulos, an integrative family nurse practitioner and neuroendocrinology specialist known as the "Hormone Queen", to explore the fascinating relationship between the hypothalamus, hormones, stress and persistent pain. Deborah shares her remarkable personal journey, beginning with the birth of her premature child and the challenges that inspired her to investigate the complexities of the hormonal system. Together, Leigh and Deborah explore how the hypothalamus helps regulate the body's stress response, hormonal balance, metabolism and pain processing — and what might happen when these systems become disrupted. They also discuss the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, the relationship between chronic stress and pain sensitivity, and why understanding the connections between the brain, body and emotions may be important for people struggling with persistent pain. In this episode, you'll discover: What the hypothalamus is and why it matters for pain. How the hypothalamus influences hormones and the body's stress response. Why pain is more complex than simply a response to tissue damage. The relationship between chronic stress, the HPA axis and persistent pain. How hypothalamic dysfunction may relate to conditions such as fibromyalgia. Why emotional health and lifestyle factors matter in understanding pain. The importance of a whole-person approach to pain recovery. If you've been struggling with persistent pain and feel that there's more to your condition than you've been told, this conversation offers another perspective on the complex systems influencing your experience. CONNECT WITH DEBORAH MARAGOPOULOS Website: https://genesisgold.com/ Hypothalamus Handbook - https://genesisgold.com/books/hypothalamus-handbook/beyond Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deborahmaragopoulosfnp/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehormonequeen/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborah-maragopoulos-mn-fnp-422b8014 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCTwDjUWkxsANSmh2wF5ltSg CONNECT WITH LEIGH BRANDON Book – Beyond The Pain (Paperback, Kindle & Audiobook): https://amzn.to/4y2HVWg Consult with Leigh: https://www.bodychek.co.uk/consultation Podcast Website: https://www.bodychek.co.uk/podcast ABOUT BEYOND THE PAIN Beyond The Pain explores the deeper influences behind persistent pain, bringing together insights from science, clinical practice and personal experience to help people better understand their bodies and take an active role in recovery. This episode is for educational purposes and does not replace individual medical advice.
#230
October 12 · 1 hr 25 min
Chronic Pain, CFS & Long COVID: How to Rebuild Trust in Your Nervous System | Miguel Bautista
What if persistent pain, fatigue and other unexplained symptoms aren’t simply signs that your body is damaged — but signs that your nervous system has become increasingly protective? In this episode of Beyond The Pain, Leigh Brandon speaks with Miguel Bautista, founder of CFS Recovery, about his extraordinary journey from being a highly driven 19-year-old personal trainer to becoming so unwell that he was bedridden, unable to feed himself and eventually admitted to hospital. After years of appointments, investigations and treatments failed to provide answers, Miguel met a doctor who introduced him to the idea of a hypersensitive nervous system and neuroplasticity. That encounter completely changed the way he understood his symptoms — and became the starting point for his recovery. Miguel and Leigh explore how fear, symptom monitoring, excessive Googling and constantly searching for the next diagnosis or treatment can sometimes reinforce a cycle of stress and symptoms. They also discuss why both pushing through symptoms and excessive rest can become problematic, and how gradually rebuilding activity may help people regain confidence in their bodies. Miguel explains his concepts of “adjustment periods” and “progress cycles”, why a flare-up doesn’t necessarily mean someone has gone back to square one, and how education can help reduce the fear surrounding pain, increased heart rate, fatigue and other physical sensations. They also discuss symptom rotation, Dr John Sarno’s “symptom imperative”, the importance of supportive communities, and why rebuilding trust in the body often begins with very small, manageable wins. In this episode, you’ll discover: Miguel’s journey from personal trainer to becoming completely bedridden Why being told that his nervous system was hypersensitive gave him hope How fear can amplify pain and other physical symptoms The cycle between symptoms, fear, stress and further symptoms Why continually Googling symptoms can sometimes make recovery harder How to avoid the boom-and-bust cycle of doing too much and then completely resting Miguel’s “adjustment period” and “progress cycle” approach How gradually rebuilding activity can help restore trust in the body Please note: Miguel’s approach is discussed in the context of people who have already undergone appropriate medical investigation to identify or rule out other causes for their symptoms. Contact Miguel Bautista / CFS Recovery - Website: https://www.cfsrecovery.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cfsrecovery LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/miguel-bautista-85a188a9/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@cfsrecovery TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@cfs.recovery Contact Leigh Brandon - Beyond The Pain book: https://amzn.to/4y2HVWg Beyond The Pain 14-Day Programme: https://bodychek.co.uk/beyond-the-pain-programme/ Consult with Leigh: https://www.bodychek.co.uk/consultation Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyondthepainpod/
#229
October 5 · 1 hr 11 min
The Vagus Nerve and Chronic Pain: Can Neuromodulation Help Regulate the Nervous System? | Jon Hacker
What role does the vagus nerve play in chronic pain, nervous system regulation and our ability to recover? In this episode of Beyond The Pain, Leigh Brandon speaks with biomedical engineer and StarSplit founder Jon Hacker about the emerging world of vagus nerve stimulation and neuromodulation. Jon shares how his own struggles with OCD and feeling unable to control his nervous system led him into the development of technology designed to influence nervous system function. He explains why his team moved from exploring direct brain stimulation towards the vagus nerve, and how they began investigating ultrasound as a non-invasive approach to neuromodulation. The conversation also explores some of the bigger challenges surrounding medical research. Jon discusses why study design matters, why published research should not automatically be accepted at face value, and how funding structures, commercial interests and academic incentives can influence which treatments are investigated and how evidence is produced. This episode offers a fascinating look at the intersection of chronic pain, nervous system regulation, neuroscience and emerging medical technology. In this episode, we discuss: How the vagus nerve may influence chronic pain The relationship between nervous system dysregulation and persistent symptoms Why Jon became interested in neuromodulation Vagus nerve stimulation versus direct brain stimulation The emerging use of ultrasound in neuromodulation Problems with the quality and design of some medical research How research funding can influence scientific progress The future of neurotechnology for chronic pain and nervous system regulation If you live with persistent pain, this conversation may help you better understand why pain involves far more than simply the area of the body where symptoms are felt. Connect with Jon Hacker: Website: https://zenbud.health/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/zenbudhealth Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zenbudhealth TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@zenbudhealth LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-hacker/ Connect with Leigh Brandon: Beyond The Pain — Book & Audiobook: https://amzn.to/4y2HVWg Consult with Leigh: https://www.bodychek.co.uk/consultation Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyondthepainpod/
#228
September 28 · 1 hr 14 min
Persistent Pain Explained: Why Pain Is More Than Tissue Damage
What if your pain is completely real, but the explanation you’ve been given for it is incomplete? For decades, persistent musculoskeletal pain was largely viewed through a structural lens: if your back hurt, there must be something wrong with your back; if your neck hurt, the problem must be in your neck. But modern pain neuroscience paints a much more complex picture. In this solo episode of Beyond The Pain, Leigh Brandon explores why pain cannot always be explained by tissue damage, scans or biomechanics alone. He looks at how the nervous system, stress, sleep, emotions, beliefs and our wider environment can all influence the pain experience. You’ll also discover why two people with very similar findings on an MRI can experience dramatically different levels of pain, why symptoms can fluctuate depending on what is happening in your life, and why persistent pain does not necessarily mean that your body is continuing to suffer damage. Importantly, adopting a broader mind-body understanding of pain does not mean ignoring pathology, dismissing symptoms or suggesting that pain is imaginary. It means recognising that pain is a protective experience influenced by multiple systems within the body and brain. Leigh also explores the enormous impact persistent pain can have on work, relationships, exercise, social connection and even a person’s sense of identity — and why understanding pain differently may open up new possibilities for recovery. If you've been living with persistent pain and feel as though you've tried everything, this episode may help you start looking at your symptoms through a very different lens. Beyond The Pain explores the physical, biochemical, neurological and emotional influences that can contribute to persistent pain — and what you can do to participate more actively in your recovery.
#227
September 21 · 55 min
Chronic Pain, Emotions and the Body: How Somatics Can Support Healing | Alexandra Beller
What if persistent pain is not merely something to eliminate, but also something we can learn to understand? In this episode of Beyond The Pain, Leigh Brandon speaks with movement analyst, choreographer and somatic educator Alexandra Beller about the relationship between chronic pain, physical sensations, emotions and identity. Alexandra shares her journey from professional dancer to somatic educator and explains how movement became a way for her to better understand herself. Having lived with pain from multiple injuries, she also offers a deeply personal perspective on how persistent pain can influence the way we see our bodies, ourselves and the world around us. Alexandra describes somatic work as a form of “couples therapy for the mind and body.” By slowing down and paying attention to physical sensations, we may begin to access information and feelings that the conscious mind has overlooked or struggled to process. Leigh and Alexandra explore how pain can gradually become a filter through which we experience life—and why fighting, ignoring or resenting the painful part of ourselves may deepen the conflict within us. Alexandra compares this part to a distressed toddler who needs patience, safety and understanding rather than criticism or rejection. This compassionate approach can help us rebuild trust with the body and develop a different relationship with persistent pain. In this episode, you’ll discover: What somatic work is and how it connects the body and mind How physical sensations can communicate emotional information Why persistent pain can become entwined with identity How fear, frustration and mistrust can affect our relationship with the body Why slowing down may help us recognise what our pain needs How movement can support self-awareness and emotional processing Why compassion can be more helpful than fighting against the body How rebuilding trust in your body may support the healing process This conversation does not suggest that pain is imaginary or “all in your head.” Instead, it explores how physical, neurological and emotional experiences continually influence one another—and how listening to the body may provide another valuable path towards recovery. CONNECT WITH ALEXANDRA BELLER Website: https://www.alexandrabellerdances.org Online courses: https://alexandrabellerdances.thinkific.com/collections Anatomy of Art: https://www.anatomy-of-art.com/ CONNECT WITH LEIGH Beyond The Pain book: https://amzn.to/4y2HVWg Beyond The Pain 14-Day Programme: https://bodychek.co.uk/beyond-the-pain-programme/ Consult with Leigh: https://bodychek.co.uk/consultation/
#226
September 14 · 1 hr 11 min
Can Breathwork Help Chronic Pain? Releasing Stored Emotions with Jon Paul Crimi
Can changing the way you breathe help you release stored emotions, regulate your nervous system and experience less pain? Breathing is something we do automatically, yet intentional breathwork may influence our physical, mental and emotional state in powerful ways. In this episode of Beyond The Pain, Leigh speaks with breathwork instructor Jon Paul Crimi about his unexpected introduction to breathwork, the profound experience that changed the direction of his life and why he now describes the practice as an “emotional gym”. Jon Paul explains that breathwork is an umbrella term covering many different techniques—from calming practices such as box breathing to more intense forms of conscious connected breathing. He also discusses how different techniques affect the nervous system and may help people access emotions and past experiences that have remained beneath their conscious awareness. In this episode, you’ll discover: • How Jon Paul went from sceptic to breathwork instructor • What happened during his first transformative session • The differences between common breathwork techniques • How breathing can influence the nervous system • Why unresolved emotions may contribute to physical tension and pain • How breathwork may help people safely access and process stored emotions • Why Jon Paul describes breathwork as an emotional gym • How regular practice may build emotional resilience • Simple ways to begin exploring conscious breathing This conversation does not suggest that all chronic pain is emotional. Pain is influenced by many interconnected physical, biochemical, neurological and emotional factors. However, for some people, breathwork may provide another valuable way to calm the nervous system, explore unresolved emotions and create a greater sense of safety within the body. If you are living with chronic or persistent pain—or feel that stress, anxiety or unresolved emotions may be affecting your health—this episode offers a fascinating introduction to the potential of conscious breathing. Find out more about Jon Paul: Website: https://breathewithjp.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jonpaulcrimi/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/breathewithjp/ Connect with Leigh: Beyond The Pain book: https://amzn.to/4y2HVWg Beyond The Pain 14-Day Programme: https://bodychek.co.uk/beyond-the-pain-programme/ Consult with Leigh: https://bodychek.co.uk/consultation If you found this conversation helpful, please follow Beyond The Pain and share the episode with someone who may benefit.
#225
September 7 · 1 hr 23 min
Neuropathy, Nerve Compression and Persistent Pain: Is Sugar a Missing Cause? | Dr Rick Jacoby
Could nerve compression be an overlooked cause of persistent pain, neuropathy, numbness or tingling? Many people experiencing nerve pain are told that their symptoms are simply caused by ageing, diabetes or irreversible nerve damage. In this episode of Beyond The Pain, peripheral nerve surgeon Dr Rick Jacoby offers a different perspective. Dr Jacoby explains his Global Compression Theory: the idea that a combination of excess sugar, biochemical changes and physical trauma can contribute to peripheral nerve compression and dysfunction. He discusses how nerves travel alongside blood vessels and the lymphatic system through narrow anatomical tunnels—and how glycation, nerve swelling and changes to the tissues surrounding a nerve may reduce the space available. This can potentially contribute to symptoms such as burning pain, numbness, tingling and altered sensation. We explore: • Why peripheral nerve compression may be overlooked in people with chronic pain and neuropathy • The relationship between sugar, glycation and nerve health • How the Maillard reaction may affect the tissues surrounding nerves • How the polyol pathway can contribute to nerve swelling • Why diabetes may increase the risk of nerve compression • Carpal tunnel syndrome as an example of nerve compression • The interaction between biochemical stress and physical trauma • Why treating symptoms alone may fail to address the underlying problem • The role of peripheral nerve surgery and regenerative medicine • How diet and lifestyle may influence nerve health Dr Jacoby’s work challenges the assumption that nerve pain must simply be accepted as an inevitable consequence of diabetes or ageing. Instead, he encourages us to examine the mechanical and biochemical factors that may be contributing to nerve irritation and compression. This conversation is intended for education and does not replace personalised medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. CONNECT WITH DR RICK JACOBY Website: https://qstemcells.com Special audience giveaway – Dr. Richard Jacoby: https://rickjacoby.co CONNECT WITH LEIGH Beyond The Pain book: https://amzn.to/4y2HVWg Beyond The Pain ebook: https://amzn.to/4y0lH78 Beyond The Pain audiobook: https://amzn.to/4wR7YOo Beyond The Pain 14-Day Programme: https://bodychek.co.uk/beyond-the-pain-programme/ Consult with Leigh: https://www.bodychek.co.uk/consultation
#224
August 31 · 1 hr 9 min
Why Chronic Pain Treatments Fail: Finding the Root Cause with Dr. Sean Altman
Why do so many chronic pain treatments provide temporary relief, only for the pain to return? In this episode of Beyond The Pain, Leigh Brandon speaks with Dr. Sean Altman about why persistent pain often requires a much broader approach than simply treating the area that hurts. After experiencing multiple injuries as a competitive ice hockey player—including concussions, migraines, vertigo and brain fog—Dr. Altman discovered the limitations of treating symptoms in isolation. His search for more complete answers led him to develop an approach he calls orthopedic functional medicine, combining traditional orthopedic care with functional medicine principles. Sean explains why the painful area is not necessarily where the problem began, how weaknesses or imbalances elsewhere in the body can contribute to injury, and why the nervous system may continue generating or amplifying pain after the original tissues have healed. You’ll discover: • Why chronic pain treatments sometimes deliver only temporary relief • What orthopedic functional medicine means • Why the location of pain may not reveal its underlying cause • How different systems within the body influence one another • How chronic pain can change the nervous system • The role of neuromodulation, biofeedback and frequency-specific microcurrent • How manual therapy, laser therapy and shockwave therapy may support recovery • Why treatment must be personalised to create more durable results • What practitioners and patients can do to reduce the likelihood of pain returning If you have tried multiple treatments without achieving lasting relief, this conversation may help you understand why—and show you a different way of approaching recovery. Listen now to discover why lasting change may require treating the whole person, not simply the painful body part. Please follow Beyond The Pain and share this episode with someone who may benefit from hearing it. Find Sean at: https://www.drseanaltman.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-sean-altman/ https://www.facebook.com/sean.altman.9 https://www.instagram.com/dr.sean.altman/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576449047639 Find Leigh at: Beyond the Pain - https://amzn.to/4y2HVWg Beyond The Pain ebook - https://amzn.to/4y0lH78 Beyond The Pain 14-Day Programme - https://bodychek.co.uk/beyond-the-pain-programme/ Pain-Free Plate Free Guide - ⁠https://www.bodychek.co.uk/freepainguide/⁠ Consult with Leigh - ⁠https://www.bodychek.co.uk/⁠consultation
#223
August 24 · 1 hr 15 min
Can Neck Pain Cause Migraines and Chronic Headaches? With Dr Jono Taves
Can neck dysfunction cause migraines and chronic headaches—even when you don’t feel significant neck pain? In this episode of Beyond The Pain, Leigh Brandon speaks with Dr Jono Taves, a physical therapist, headache specialist and founder of the Novera Headache Center, about the frequently overlooked connection between the neck, migraines and persistent headaches. When pain appears behind the eye, across the temple or inside the head, it is understandable to assume that the problem originates there. But when scans and neurological investigations fail to reveal a clear cause, could the pain actually be referred from the neck? Jono explains how dysfunction within the upper cervical spine can contribute to headache and migraine symptoms, why the brain may misinterpret where pain is coming from and how neck problems can remain undetected during conventional headache assessments. Leigh and Jono discuss: • Why pain felt in the head may originate in the neck • The relationship between neck dysfunction, migraines and chronic headaches • Why MRI and CT scans may not reveal the source of someone’s symptoms • How previous injuries, trauma and accumulated physical stress can affect the neck • Why some migraine sufferers have neck dysfunction without obvious neck pain • The limitations of continually managing symptoms without investigating their cause • How specialist physical therapy may help reduce headache frequency and severity • The influence of posture, prolonged sitting and screen use • How psychological stress can increase muscular tension and aggravate symptoms • Practical ways to improve neck health and support headache recovery This conversation will be especially valuable if you experience recurring migraines, persistent headaches, neck or shoulder pain, or symptoms that have continued despite medication and conventional treatment. It may also help those whose headaches began following a sports injury, concussion, whiplash or other physical trauma. This episode is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose or treat any medical condition. Persistent, severe, sudden or changing headaches should always be assessed by an appropriately qualified healthcare professional. JONO’S DETAILS Novera Headache Center: https://www.noveraheadachecenter.com The Headache Doctor Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theheadachedoctor The Headache Doctor Podcast on Buzzsprout: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1343245 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/noveraheadachecenter/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theheadachedoctor Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/noveraheadachecenter/ LEIGH’S DETAILS Beyond The Pain book: https://amzn.to/4y2HVWg Beyond The Pain ebook: https://amzn.to/4y0lH78 Beyond The Pain 14-Day Programme: https://bodychek.co.uk/beyond-the-pain-programme/ Consult with Leigh: https://www.bodychek.co.uk/consultation
#222
August 17 · 1 hr 4 min
Chronic Pain Explained: The Hidden Physical, Emotional and Nutritional Factors | Dr Zoa Conner
Why does pain sometimes persist—even after an injury has healed? In this episode, Leigh speaks with physicist, educator and pain specialist Dr Zoa Conner about the complex nature of persistent pain. They explore why pain is more than a purely physical experience and how muscular imbalances, nutrition, stress, emotions and the nervous system may all influence how pain is experienced. Zoa explains her systems optimisation approach: instead of viewing pain as an isolated symptom, she looks at the interconnected factors that may be keeping the body in a protective state. In this conversation, you’ll discover: • Why pain should be understood as a protective message • How persistent pain can have multiple contributing factors • The potential roles of posture, muscular imbalance and weakness • How stress and emotional tension may affect physical symptoms • Why nutrition matters for healing and nervous-system health • How mindful awareness can change your relationship with pain • Ways to reintroduce gentle movement without forcing through symptoms • Why exploring root causes may be more effective than focusing only on pain relief If you’re living with persistent pain and feel confused, frustrated or let down by symptom-focused approaches, this conversation offers a broader and more hopeful way to understand what may be happening. CONNECT WITH ZOA Take Zoa’s quiz: https://intentional-vitality.com/quiz/ Next retreat—Montreal, October 2026: https://intentional-vitality.com/montreal-oct-2026/ Zen and Vitality online and in-person wellness studio: https://www.zenandvitality.com/ CONNECT WITH LEIGH Beyond the Pain—paperback: https://amzn.to/4y2HVWg Beyond the Pain—ebook: https://amzn.to/4y0lH78 Beyond the Pain 14-Day Programme: https://bodychek.co.uk/beyond-the-pain-programme/ Download the free Pain-Free Plate guide: https://www.bodychek.co.uk/freepainguide/ Book a consultation with Leigh: https://www.bodychek.co.uk/consultation Please follow or subscribe to the show and share this episode with someone who needs a new perspective on persistent pain. Disclaimer: This episode is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for personalised medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Consult an appropriately qualified healthcare professional about symptoms or changes to your health.
#221
August 10 · 1 hr 6 min
From Bed-Bound to 98% Better: Overcoming Chronic Pain After Lyme Disease with Allie Chandler
Allie Chandler went from being fit, active and adventurous to experiencing severe widespread pain and spending almost two years largely confined to bed. Her symptoms began suddenly following a backpacking trip in the Swiss Alps. After years of searching for answers, Allie was diagnosed with Lyme disease and co-infections. However, receiving a diagnosis was only the beginning of a long and often unpredictable recovery journey. In this episode of Beyond The Pain, Allie shares the physical, emotional and social impact of living with debilitating persistent pain. She discusses her experience with functional medicine, environmental triggers—including exposure to black mould—and the different approaches she explored while trying to restore her health. We also explore the turning point in Allie’s recovery: recognising the role of her nervous system, mindset and identification with illness. Through limbic-system retraining, emotional work and daily practices designed to change her brain’s response to perceived threats, Allie gradually began reclaiming her health and her life. Today, Allie considers herself 98% recovered. Her story offers hope, encouragement and practical insights for anyone who feels trapped by pain, illness or repeated setbacks. In this episode, we discuss: How Allie went from competitive sport and boxing to being largely bed-bound The long search for an explanation for her widespread symptoms Her Lyme disease and co-infection diagnoses Functional medicine, detoxification and organ support How black-mould exposure contributed to a significant setback The relationship between stress, the nervous system and persistent symptoms Limbic-system retraining and neuroplasticity Moving beyond a victim mentality and an illness-based identity The daily habits that helped Allie rebuild her health Why setbacks do not necessarily mean recovery is impossible Allie’s experience is personal and should not be taken as medical advice. Anyone experiencing persistent or unexplained symptoms should seek appropriately qualified medical support. Contact Allie Meet Your Healer App: www.meetyourhealer.com Brain Retraining Programme: www.upsellhealth.com/brain Contact Leigh Beyond The Pain paperback: https://amzn.to/4y2HVWg Beyond The Pain ebook: https://amzn.to/4y0lH78 Beyond The Pain 14-Day Programme: https://bodychek.co.uk/beyond-the-pain-programme/ Pain-Free Plate Free Guide: https://www.bodychek.co.uk/freepainguide/ Consult with Leigh: https://www.bodychek.co.uk/consultation
#220
August 3 · 1 hr 26 min
The Missing Link in Persistent Pain: Self-Love, Emotions and the Body with Lindsay Little
Could the way you relate to yourself be affecting your experience of persistent pain? In this episode of Beyond The Pain, Leigh Brandon speaks with Lindsay Little about the complex relationship between physical pain, emotional pain and self-love. Drawing on her own experience of serious illness, autoimmune disease and feeling disconnected from her body, Lindsay explains how her health crisis led her to explore massage, somatic practices and the deeper messages held within the body. Together, Leigh and Lindsay discuss why physical and emotional pain cannot always be separated, how a lack of self-love may influence the way we care for ourselves, and why healing may require more than treating symptoms alone. They also explore how chronic stress, unresolved emotions, personal boundaries and our need to feel loved can affect our physical and emotional well-being. Lindsay shares practical ways to begin cultivating self-love, including identifying how you prefer to receive love, becoming more mindful of your needs, establishing healthier boundaries and making space for meaningful self-care. In this episode, you’ll discover: How Lindsay’s experience with autoimmune disease changed her relationship with her body Why physical and emotional pain are often deeply interconnected How unresolved emotional experiences may contribute to persistent symptoms Why self-love is about more than positive thinking or pampering yourself How your personal “love languages” can be applied to self-care Why healthy boundaries are an essential expression of self-respect How mindfulness and somatic awareness can help you reconnect with your body Practical first steps towards developing a more supportive relationship with yourself If you have persistent pain and feel that something important has been overlooked, this conversation offers a compassionate invitation to listen to your body, explore your emotional needs and consider healing from a whole-person perspective. Connect with Lindsay Little SomaLingua: https://somalingua.com/ Connect with Leigh Brandon Beyond The Pain paperback: https://amzn.to/4y2HVWg Beyond The Pain ebook: https://amzn.to/4y0lH78 Beyond The Pain 14-Day Programme: https://bodychek.co.uk/beyond-the-pain-programme/ Free Pain-Free Plate Guide: https://www.bodychek.co.uk/freepainguide/ Consult with Leigh: https://www.bodychek.co.uk/consultation
#219
July 27 · 1 hr 34 min
Can Repressed Emotions Cause Chronic Pain? Mind-Body Healing with Amy Lansky
Could unresolved emotions, chronic stress and suppressed anger be contributing to persistent pain? In this episode of Beyond The Pain, Leigh Brandon speaks with author Amy Lansky about her personal experiences with lower back pain, sciatica, insomnia and other chronic symptoms—and how the work of Dr John Sarno changed the way she understood them. Amy explains why pain may not always originate solely in the physical body and introduces the framework from her book, Living in Synchrony. This explores the physical, etheric, emotional, mental and causal aspects of the human experience—and how each may influence health and healing. Together, Leigh and Amy explore: Amy’s journey from computer scientist to author and researcher How Dr John Sarno connected chronic pain with suppressed emotions Amy’s experience of overcoming severe sciatica Why chronic pain may move from one area of the body to another How posture, breathing and movement can contribute to physical symptoms The relationship between emotional stress, muscle tension and pain Why symptom suppression may not address the underlying cause Approaches including meditation, journalling, emotional release, TRE and EFT How to explore the possible root causes of persistent symptoms Simple ways to reconnect with your body, intuition and sense of meaning This conversation invites you to look beyond the location of your pain and consider the wider physical, emotional and psychological influences that may be contributing to it. Please remember that persistent, severe or unexplained symptoms should be appropriately assessed by a qualified healthcare professional. The experiences and views discussed in this episode are not a substitute for individual medical advice. Find out more about Amy Lansky: https://www.amylansky.com Connect with Leigh and explore his resources: Beyond The Pain paperback: https://amzn.to/4y2HVWg Beyond The Pain ebook: https://amzn.to/4y0lH78 Beyond The Pain 14-Day Programme: https://bodychek.co.uk/beyond-the-pain-programme/ Pain-Free Plate Free Guide: https://www.bodychek.co.uk/freepainguide/ Consult with Leigh: https://www.bodychek.co.uk/consultation
#218
July 20 · 1 hr 23 min
Can Unresolved Emotions Drive Chronic Pain? The RESET Method with Peter Strange
What if the reason your pain persists is not only found in the part of your body that hurts? When pain continues despite treatment, exercise, medication or attempts to correct the physical problem, it may be necessary to look beyond muscles, joints and structural damage. Unresolved emotional experiences, chronic stress, fear and deeply held beliefs may also influence how the body responds and why pain remains. In this episode of Beyond The Pain, Leigh speaks with Peter Strange, creator of the RESET Method, about his own journey from serious knee and spinal injuries to developing an approach that considers the structural, emotional and energetic influences on pain. Peter explains how RESET—Realigning Emotions and Structure for Energetic Transformation—evolved from his background in fitness, kinesiology, manual therapy and energy-based healing. He also describes what he means by non-local connection and how he works with clients remotely. Leigh and Peter explore: Why physical findings such as degeneration, disc changes or “wear and tear” do not always explain someone’s pain How unresolved emotions and significant life experiences may contribute to persistent pain Why pain can sometimes change when a person feels heard, safe or more in control The relationship between posture, thoughts, emotions and the nervous system How Peter developed the RESET Method What non-local connection and remote healing mean in practical terms Questions that may help you explore the emotional context surrounding your pain Why surgery may sometimes be appropriate, but should not automatically be viewed as the only option The importance of seeking appropriate professional advice and considering the whole person This conversation does not suggest that physical injuries or structural problems should be ignored. Instead, it encourages you to remain curious about the different influences that may be affecting your pain and to consider whether there is another part of your story that has not yet been explored. Connect with Peter Strange Website: https://peterstrange.co.uk Connect with Leigh Brandon Beyond The Pain paperback: https://amzn.to/4y2HVWg Beyond The Pain ebook: https://amzn.to/4y0lH78 Beyond The Pain 14-Day Programme: https://bodychek.co.uk/beyond-the-pain-programme/ Pain-Free Plate Free Guide: https://www.bodychek.co.uk/freepainguide/ Consult with Leigh: https://www.bodychek.co.uk/consultation This podcast is provided for educational purposes only and should not be treated as medical advice. The discussion includes personal experiences and complementary approaches that may not be supported by established clinical evidence. Always seek appropriate medical assessment for new, severe or unexplained symptoms, and consult a suitably qualified healthcare professional before changing your treatment.
#217
July 13 · 1 hr 46 min
Can Energy Healing Help Chronic Pain? with Romain Daumont
Energy healing is often dismissed as “woo woo” by people who have never experienced it. But what if some of what we call woo woo is simply what science has not yet learned how to measure? In this episode of Beyond The Pain, I speak with Romain Daumont, founder of Luminara Care, about energy healing, chronic pain, grief, silence, trust, and the emerging science around biofield therapies. Romain’s journey into this work began after the heartbreaking loss of his son, Rafael, shortly after birth. During that period of grief, he discovered something unexpected: silence did not have to feel empty or frightening. In the presence of others, silence could feel loving, supportive, and deeply connecting. That experience eventually led him to create Helo, an app designed to help people share moments of silence together, even when physically apart. But Romain’s path later took another turn when he began exploring collective meditation, remote healing, and the world of energy medicine. In this conversation, we discuss how energy healing may support people with chronic pain, trauma, anxiety, depression, and cancer-related pain, while also being honest that it does not work for everyone, and that the quality and integrity of the practitioner matters enormously. We also talk about why trust is so important in an unregulated field, how Luminara vets practitioners, what a first session may look like, and why Romain is now involved in research looking at energy healing, chronic pain, trauma, and other health challenges. This is a thought-provoking conversation about pain, the nervous system, emotional healing, the biofield, science, scepticism, and the possibility that healing may involve more than the physical body alone. In this episode, we discuss: Why Romain’s experience of grief changed his relationship with silence How shared silence can create connection without words The story behind Helo and Luminara Care Why Romain became interested in collective meditation and remote healing How energy healing may help some people with chronic pain Why practitioner quality, ethics, and trust matter so much What mainstream pain care may miss about persistent pain Why pain is not simply something to suppress The relationship between pain, the nervous system, emotions, and the body What a first energy healing session through Luminara may look like How Luminara matches clients with vetted practitioners The importance of consent, openness, and safety in healing work Emerging research into biofield therapies and energy healing Why the future of healthcare may need to become more integrative Connect with Romain: Website: https://www.luminara.care/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/luminara.care/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/luminara-care/ Connect with Leigh: Beyond The Pain paperback: https://amzn.to/4y2HVWg Beyond The Pain ebook: https://amzn.to/4y0lH78 Beyond The Pain 14-Day Programme: https://bodychek.co.uk/beyond-the-pain-programme/ Pain-Free Plate Free Guide: https://www.bodychek.co.uk/freepainguide/ Consult with Leigh: https://www.bodychek.co.uk/consultation
#216
July 6 · 1 hr 24 min
Healing Chronic Pain: The Mind, Body & Lifestyle Connection with Hany Demian
Chronic pain is often treated as though it is purely a physical problem — an injury, a joint issue, a disc problem, inflammation, or degeneration. But for many people living with persistent pain, the real picture is far more complex. In this episode of Beyond The Pain, I speak with pain management expert Hany Demian about why chronic pain often needs to be understood through a much wider lens — one that includes the body, mind, emotions, stress, lifestyle, inflammation, nervous system sensitivity, and the person’s overall health. Hany shares his own journey into medicine, the limitations he began to see in conventional pain management, and why he became increasingly interested in cellular health, regenerative medicine, and more holistic approaches to healing. We discuss why pain is not always just about the place where it hurts, why mindset and emotional stress can influence recovery, and why nutrition, movement, sleep, inflammation, oxidative stress, and lifestyle choices may all play a role in whether someone gets better or remains stuck. This is not about saying pain is “all in your head.” It is about recognising that persistent pain is often a whole-person problem — and therefore recovery may need a whole-person approach. In this episode, we discuss: Why chronic pain is often more than just an injury or structural problem The limitations of conventional pain management when root causes are missed How inflammation, oxidative stress, and lifestyle stress can contribute to persistent pain Why mindset and emotional health can influence chronic pain recovery The role of nutrition, movement, sleep, and stress management in healing Why some people struggle to recover even after injections, procedures, or medication How taking a more proactive role in your health can support long-term pain relief If you are living with chronic pain, persistent pain, back pain, joint pain, or ongoing symptoms that have not fully responded to conventional treatment, this episode will help you think differently about what may be driving your pain — and what you may be able to do about it. Connect with Dr Hany: Website - https://drdemian.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/drhanydemian/ YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@drhanydemain Connect with Leigh: Beyond The Pain book - https://amzn.to/44ArJxT Beyond The Pain 14-Day Programme - https://bodychek.co.uk/beyond-the-pain-programme/ Pain-Free Plate Free Guide - ⁠https://www.bodychek.co.uk/freepainguide/⁠ Consult with Leigh - ⁠https://www.bodychek.co.uk/⁠consultation
#215
June 29 · 1 hr 31 min
Cam Cordin: Chronic Pain, Cold Exposure & Rebuilding Health
In this episode of Beyond The Pain, I speak with Cam Cordin about his powerful journey from chronic pain, physical breakdown and emotional rock bottom to rebuilding his health through discipline, resilience and what he calls the Savage Chill System. Cam had spent years training hard through powerlifting, Jiu Jitsu and athletics, but by his late thirties, his body began to break down. What started as soreness gradually became debilitating pain, numbness in his hands, and the realisation that he could no longer keep pushing through life in the same way. After facing the prospect of managed decline, pain medication and a life that felt increasingly limited, Cam made a decision: he was going to stop outsourcing responsibility for his health and begin understanding what his body truly needed. In this conversation, Cam shares how cold exposure, kettlebell training, mental resilience and a structured daily system helped him rebuild his body, reconnect with his purpose and move beyond simply managing symptoms. We discuss why discomfort is often something to move towards rather than avoid, how fear can hold people back from change, and why real transformation often requires both physical and mental discipline. This episode is a powerful reminder that healing is not always comfortable, linear or easy — but with the right mindset, structure and support, it is possible to reclaim your health and your life. In this episode, we discuss: Why Cam’s health started to decline despite years of athletic training How chronic pain, numbness and physical limitation affected his life Why conventional approaches did not give him the answers he needed How cold exposure became a turning point in his recovery The role of kettlebell training in rebuilding strength and resilience Why mental toughness is not about ignoring pain, but learning how to respond differently How Cam developed the Savage Chill System Why structure, consistency and personal responsibility matter in healing Practical first steps for people who feel stuck in pain or poor health Connect with Cam Cordin: Website: https://savagechillstyle.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/camcordin Connect with Leigh: Beyond The Pain book Free Chapter: https://bodychek.co.uk/book-waitlist/ Beyond The Pain 14-Day Programme: https://bodychek.co.uk/beyond-the-pain-programme/ Pain-Free Plate Free Guide: https://www.bodychek.co.uk/freepainguide/ Consult with Leigh: https://www.bodychek.co.uk/consultation

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