The Pain Game Podcast

Lyndsay Soprano

Join Lyndsay Soprano and her guests weekly on The Pain Game Podcast about the game of living in and with chronic pain and trauma getting to the heart of how to heal with you by her side. read less
Health & FitnessHealth & Fitness

Episodes

Empowering Women's Midlife Journey
3d ago
Empowering Women's Midlife Journey
Join Lyndsay Soprano and Amita Sharma, co-founder of NourishDoc, as they explore the complexities of perimenopause and women's wellness. Together, they shed light on the often-misunderstood life stage of menopause, highlighting the importance of holistic health and self-care to prevent chronic conditions.Lyndsay and Amita discuss the shortcomings of current healthcare systems, the need for personalized care, and offer practical advice for women to reclaim their health with confidence.  As they unravel the societal pressures and stigmas attached to aging, they offer hope and practical advice for women to reclaim their health and vitality. This episode is not just a conversation but an uplifting guide for women to navigate the "golden doors of sweat and love and light" with confidence and grace.Tune in for an empowering guide through the transformative journey of perimenopause.Connect with Amita Sharma and explore the holistic wellness revolution at NourishDoc:Website: www.nourishdoc.comInstagram: @nourishdocFacebook: NourishDocYouTube: NourishDocEpisode Highlights:(00:00) Lyndsay's candid take on the struggles of perimenopause(02:18) Amita Sharma's mission with NourishDoc to provide affordable wellness(04:35) The importance of addressing perimenopausal symptoms for long-term health(07:52) The cultural sensitivity of menopause symptoms across different races(12:45) The holistic approach to health and the interconnectedness of body and mind(18:30) The upcoming Nourish Doc app and its role in empowering midlife women(24:58) The significance of investing time in oneself for holistic well-being(27:47) Lyndsay's personal reflections on health, happiness, and the commitment to self-care
Shadow Work + Influencing Trauma
Apr 16 2024
Shadow Work + Influencing Trauma
Venture into the shadows with Lyndsay Soprano as she welcomes Dr. Elizabeth Berrocal, a beacon of hope for those entangled in the dark and twisty labyrinths of their psyche. Dr. Berrocal unveils the transformative practice of shadow work, guiding us through the murky depths where our deepest fears and unresolved traumas lurk.Dr. Berrocal, an EMDR therapist and hypnotherapist, shares her insights on the Berrocal Method, a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. With her extensive international experience, she empathetically navigates the complex tapestry of human emotion, encouraging us to confront the underbelly of our inner world.This episode is an invitation to those yearning to transform pain into purpose, to those seeking to heal the fractures within and to live their most authentic lives. It's a call to arms for anyone ready to face their shadows and emerge into the light of self-awareness and acceptance.Discover more about Dr. Berrocal's work and the upcoming workbook designed to facilitate your journey through shadow work:Website: www.berrocalmethod.com/Instagram: @theberrocalmethodEpisode Highlights:(00:00) Introduction to the power of shadow work and healing from trauma(03:22) Dr. Elizabeth Berrocal's expertise in women's mental health and trauma(06:15) The impact of childhood experiences on our adult lives(11:34) The therapeutic process and the importance of being ready for change(17:28) The Berrocal Method and its unique approach to therapy(22:47) Lyndsay's personal journey through ketamine infusions and self-healing(28:36) The significance of internal validation and making peace with our demons(32:50) Dr. Elizabeth Berrocal's upcoming workbook for shadow work and healing
Authoring Your Trauma
Apr 9 2024
Authoring Your Trauma
In this raw and revealing episode, Lyndsay Soprano invites bestselling author Cassie Gustafson to share her journey of healing through writing. Cassie, the voice behind the powerful YA novels "After the Ink Dries" and "The Secrets We Keep," discusses the cathartic process of transforming personal trauma into poignant storytelling.With a life shadowed by abuse and trauma, Cassie and Lyndsay delve into the dark corners of their pasts, uncovering the resilience it takes to confront suppressed memories and the strength found in the written word. From angsty poetry to bestselling novels, Cassie's narrative is a testament to the therapeutic power of writing, as she crafts her experiences into stories that resonate with readers and survivors alike.Throughout the conversation, they explore the intersection of chronic illness and emotional trauma, as Cassie opens up about her battle with Mast Cell Activation Syndrome—a condition she believes may have been exacerbated by years of unaddressed pain. The episode is a beacon of hope for anyone struggling to find their voice amidst the chaos of past hurts.Cassie's tale is not only her own but a universal echo of the struggle and triumph over life's deepest wounds. As they discuss the importance of self-love and the courage to face one's history, this episode stands as a powerful reminder that sometimes, the only way out is through.For those seeking solace, inspiration, or a kindred spirit in the fight against the shadows of abuse, this episode is a must-listen. Dive into the depths of healing, the beauty of resilience, and the undeniable impact of sharing one's truth.You can find Cassie online at:Website: www.cassiegustafson.comInstagram: @cassiegustyHer books, "The Secrets We Keep" and "After the Ink Dries", are available wherever books are sold.If this conversation resonates with you, or you know someone who needs to hear it, don't hesitate to share the episode and reach out. Remember, you're not alone in this journey. Let's navigate the pain game together.#ThePainGamePodcast #HealingThroughWriting #Trauma #ChronicIllness #YABooks #Resilience #SelfLove #PodcastCommunity #MastCellActivationSyndrome #SurvivorStories📋 Episode Chapters(00:00) This podcast focuses on how to heal from chronic pain and trauma(02:07) Cassie Gustafson is the author of two YA contemporary novels(02:46) Talk about how writing helped you heal from trauma and illness(07:51) When did you start writing? I think I started writing when I was younger(14:42) With my third book, I'm going to do something completely different(17:47) Do you think your illness came from facing music in your writing(18:20) You have mast cell activation syndrome, which is an autoimmune disease(26:07) Facing down trauma while your body is failing that was the hardest(31:30) We're here for people that are listening and for anybody that needs help(34:55) You had said that you had to write this out of your body(40:37) TikTok: Thank you for sharing your story with us today(45:12) I admire you for continuing to do this work. It is definitely challenging(45:51) Welcome to the Pain Game podcast. If you are struggling with trauma, please reach out
Neurodivergence: The Essence of Inclusion
Apr 2 2024
Neurodivergence: The Essence of Inclusion
Venture into the heart of neurodiversity, with Lyndsay Soprano and Katherine McCord, as they share poignant experiences that illuminate the intricate ways our brains shape our perception of the world.They challenge the status quo, advocating for a profound reevaluation of how society and workplaces recognize and nurture neurodiversity. Through personal narratives, they highlight the journey to self-recognition and the transformative power of embracing one’s unique neural landscape.Katherine offers groundbreaking insights into revolutionizing HR practices, emphasizing the creation of environments where communication thrives, understanding deepens, and individual accommodations become the norm. This discussion is a clarion call for a seismic shift in perception—inviting a culture where curiosity and open-mindedness become the catalysts for inclusive growth.Touching on the confluence of physical disabilities and neurodiversity, the conversation champions the valorization of individuality, the necessity of clear boundary setting, and effective communication of needs. Culminating in a powerful dialogue on trauma bonding within the neurodiverse community, this episode is not just a conversation but a movement, urging listeners to rethink, reengage, and reshape the narrative around neurodiversity.You can find Katherine Online:www.peopleverse.orghttps://www.jointheneuroverse.org/https://www.titanmanagementusa.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katherine-mccord-093bb343/Website: https://www.kmccordspeaking.comPodcast: http://careerlaunchlive.com/Insta: https://www.instagram.com/join.the.neuroverse/ TikTok: @KatTheHRTitan
A New Leash On Life
Mar 26 2024
A New Leash On Life
Life-long friendships. They rescue you.Those who survive the ups and downs of a legit death-do-you-part kind of friendship should be celebrated. So, we celebrate one of my favorite people on the entire planet today and every day.We continue to rescue each other through our leaps of faith over our years on this planet together and separate. So, meet my high school sweetheart, my equally troubled soul, my spirit animal, my forever love…Scott Busby.We have always been unscripted together. We will always be. So, listen to how my friend was rescued by his dog, Baxter, and how Baxter is changing lives one home, one shelter, one heart at a time. And read about THEIR unscripted journey together and unleash your life.Take a deep dive into the themes of lifelong friendships, the magic of dog rescue, and the healing power of companionship with Scott.The conversation covers the importance of self-care, overcoming past trauma, and the role of dogs in finding self-worth and fostering healthier relationships. Scott also discusses his philanthropic efforts through Baxter Dog Media, dedicating half of his book's profits to animal rescue organizations and his mission to support shelter animals. This episode vibes about:🎙️ Lifelong Friendships🎙️ Dog Rescue🎙️ Emotional Support🎙️ Self-Worth🎙️ Animal Adoption🎙️ Baxter Dog Media and more!Find Scott + Baxter online here:https://www.baxterdog.com/Instagram: @baxterdogmediaListen to the full episode here >> https://tr.ee/wzRmfsMtDc#ThePainGamePodcast #Trauma #DogRescue #BaxterMedia #AdoptDontShop #Healing #PodcastLife #LosAngeles #CRPS #Friendship
Surviving Human Trafficking
Mar 5 2024
Surviving Human Trafficking
In a deeply moving dialogue in this episode of The Pain Game Podcast, Lyndsay Soprano and Amanda Blackwood, human trafficking survivor, traverse the harrowing landscapes of trauma and resilience, shedding light on the dark corridors of human trafficking with raw honesty and startling statistics.Amanda courageously unveils her own odyssey of entrapment and liberation, challenging myths and exposing the brutal realities of exploitation, while advocating for the imperative of firm boundaries and the sanctity of self-healing. Through the prism of her ordeal, she illustrates the transformative journey from victim to victor, underpinning the critical role of therapy, creativity, and community support in reclaiming one's worth and forging a path of empowerment.This conversation is a testament to the indomitable spirit of survival, echoing the profound impact of laughter, love, and the relentless pursuit of justice in the face of adversity.This episode vibes about:Human Trafficking + EducationSurvival + ManipulationTrauma Recovery + VomitingCreative OutletsHealing + ForgivenessEstablishing BoundariesEmpowerment and more!Amanda you swept me off my feet with all of your beauty, grit, and grace.Thank you for sharing your stories with us and teaching us how being a bad ass...isn't an option. No matter what you've been dealt. XXOOYou can find her online...like EVERYWHERE. But start here:https://growthfromdarkness.comhttps://www.instagram.com/detailedpieceshttps://www.linkedin.com/in/authoramandablackwood#thepaingamepodcast #humantrafficking #amandablackwood #lyndsaysoprano #surviving #crps #trauma #chronicpain #hollywood
Move That Ass Out of Pain!
Feb 13 2024
Move That Ass Out of Pain!
Living with chronic pain, overcoming fear and negative self-talk, and the importance of rest and movement is at the center of this episode with Lyndsay Soprano and DK Ciccone of Movement Remedies. They also delve into the benefits of Pilates for individuals with chronic pain and the role of authenticity and vulnerability in personal growth. DK discusses the benefits of Pilates and the holistic approach it offers and shares her personal experience of feeling the benefits of Pilates both physically and mentally. DK emphasizes the importance of mindset and taking small steps towards healing and achieving goals. She encourages listeners to prioritize what matters and find joy in the journey. DK also highlights the significance of finding the right movement modality and instructor. The conversation concludes with an invitation to connect and share the journey with others.TakeawaysLiving with chronic pain requires a constant conversation with oneself to overcome fear and negative self-talk.Rest is not just physical immobility, but also a rest of the mind and heart, reconnecting with one's core being.Pilates is a form of movement that can help individuals with chronic pain improve strength, mobility, and well-being in a safe and supportive environment.Authenticity and vulnerability are essential for personal growth and building connections with others. Pilates offers both physical and mental benefits, providing a holistic approach to care.Taking small steps and having the right mindset are key to reaping the benefits of Pilates.Prioritizing what matters and finding joy in the journey are essential for healing and achieving goals.Finding the right movement modality and instructor is crucial for a personalized and effective experience.Chapters00:00 Living with Chronic Pain03:20 Traumatic Event at 1307:46 Self-Worth and Body Image10:13 Shifting Mindset and Overcoming Fear14:31 The Productivity of Rest20:29 Understanding Pilates25:12 Resistance Training and Pilates28:12 Authenticity and Vulnerability31:14 Discovering Pilates32:02 Discovering Pilates and its Benefits33:02 Feeling the Benefits of Pilates34:40 The Holistic Approach of Pilates35:58 The Power of Posture and Movement37:03 Overcoming Challenges and Setting Goals38:00 Mindset and Taking Small Steps39:18 Building Evidence and Overcoming Fear41:18 Finding Joy and Prioritizing What Matters43:06 Learning and Growing from Guests45:08 The Journey and Process of Healing46:25 Finding the Right Movement Modality48:47 The Importance of Finding the Right Instructor51:05 Hope, Taking One Step at a Time, and You're Meant to Move52:41 Invitation to Share the Journey and Connect with OthersYou can find DK Ciccone online:All Links: https://movementremedies.org/linksInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/movement_remedies/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/movement.remedies.llcYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjeuDPj1wKBiJirGtjwDTWQLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dana-karen-ciccone/Website: https://movementremedies.orgTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@movement.remediesBook to Promote: You're Meant to Move: A Guide to Conquering Chronic Pain, Increasing Stress Resilience, and Reclaiming an Active Lifeyouremeanttomove.com
Fixing Your Sleep Deprived Brain
Feb 6 2024
Fixing Your Sleep Deprived Brain
In this conversation, Lyndsay Soprano discusses her personal struggles with sleep and introduces her guest, Annie Miller, a licensed psychotherapist specializing in sleep therapy.Annie shares her personal experience with chronic pain and how it led her to focus on sleep therapy. They discuss the challenges of sleep for individuals with chronic pain and trauma, and the importance of cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) as a solution. Annie explains the process of CBT-I and how it differs from traditional talk therapy.They also explore strategies such as scheduling worry time and creating wind down time to improve sleep quality. In this conversation, Lyndsay Soprano and Annie Miller discuss various strategies for improving sleep and managing chronic pain. They emphasize the importance of setting boundaries with news consumption and creating a sleep-friendly environment.They also discuss the concept of sleep drive and how it can be boosted by maintaining a consistent sleep schedule. Annie introduces the concept of pain reprocessing therapy, which involves changing the way we perceive and react to pain. The conversation concludes with a message of hope and the importance of embracing change.TakeawaysSet boundaries with news consumption to create a sleep-friendly environment.Boost sleep drive by maintaining a consistent sleep schedule.Consider pain reprocessing therapy to change the way you perceive and react to pain.Embrace change and have hope for improving sleep and managing chronic pain.This episode vibes about:🎙️ Sleep Challenges🎙️ Chronic Pain🎙️ Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I)🎙️ Sleep-Friendly Strategies🎙️ Pain Reprocessing Therapy🎙️ Emotional Boundaries and more!You can find Annie Miller online:Website: https://dcmetrotherapy.com/anniemiller/Instagram: @dc.metro.therapy
Brain Balancing + Trauma
Jan 30 2024
Brain Balancing + Trauma
This week on The Pain Game Podcast with Lyndsay Soprano and Dr. Rebecca Jackson, we delve into the profound intricacies of brain health, unraveling the impacts of trauma, sleep deprivation, and the echoes of COVID-19 on our cerebral development.Discover the remarkable resilience of the human brain and the boundless potential for transformation at any stage of life. Dr. Rebecca Jackson brings 15+ years of Brain Balance experience to her role as Chief Programs Officer to our conversation. She is a visionary in neurological wellness, unveils the critical role of sensory stimulation in brain function, and shares transformative strategies to enhance brain health.Immerse yourself in a discussion that transcends the ordinary, highlighting the empowering art of saying no, setting life-changing boundaries, and fostering an environment of relaxation and self-care. This episode is more than a conversation; it's a beacon of hope, offering practical steps and insights for nurturing a positive state of brain health.Join us in redefining the future of brain health and get our brains Back on Track.You can find Dr. Rebecca Jackson online:https://drrebeccajackson.com/TakeawaysTrauma can have a significant impact on brain development and sensory processing.Sleep deprivation can impair cognitive function and is equivalent to being mildly intoxicated.The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound effect on brain development, particularly in children.Sensory stimulation, including light, sound, and touch, plays a crucial role in brain health and development. Strategies such as exposure to light in the morning and sensory stimulation can help improve brain health.The pandemic has had a significant impact on development, leading to increased struggles with attention, depression, and anxiety.Brain Balance focuses on brain health and development for both children and adults, addressing areas of struggle and providing an action plan for improvement.Understanding developmental gaps and addressing them can lead to better functioning and improved quality of life.Change and growth are possible at any age, and optimizing brain health can lead to positive outcomes.00:00 Introduction: The Importance of Brain Health03:07 Understanding the Impact of Trauma on the Brain06:18 The Role of Development in Brain Health10:10 The Effects of Sleep Deprivation on the Brain12:14 The Impact of COVID-19 on Brain Development18:04 Unpacking Trauma and its Effects on Brain Function29:12 The Power of Sensory Stimulation in Brain Health40:03 Strategies for Brain Health41:25 Brain Balance for Children and Adults43:01 The Impact of the Pandemic on Development44:01 Understanding Brain Health and Development45:10 Addressing Developmental Gaps46:27 The Importance of Developmental Understanding47:17 The Challenges of Inconsistent Development48:16 Personal Experiences and Concerns49:04 The Impact of Stress and Trauma on Brain Health50:03 Improving Brain Health for Adults51:15 The Power of Saying No and Setting Boundaries52:38 Change and Growth at Any Age55:00 Creating a Positive Brain Health State56:34 Reducing Stress and Optimizing Brain Health58:18 The Importance of Relaxation and Self-Care01:00:05 Hope and Action for Brain Health01:01:46 The Impact of Development on Adult Life01:03:05 Change and Growth at Any Age01:06:03 The Power of Development and Optimization01:07:21 The Accessibility of Brain Health
Ketamine + the Future of Healing
Jan 9 2024
Ketamine + the Future of Healing
Embark on a journey into the heart of psychedelic medicine with us, where the transformative effects of ketamine are revealed as a beacon of hope.Joined by mental health advocate, CEO, and entrepreneur Sam Mandel of Ketamine Clinics Los Angeles, we unravel the intricate web of traditional mental health care and its limitations.Together, we illuminate the contrast of societal norms that celebrate certain substances while vilifying others and champion the nuanced understanding of substance use in our quest for wellness.Our conversation delves into the awe-inspiring potential of psychedelics like ketamine in clinical settings, once relegated to the fringes of recreation and spirituality, now at the forefront of treating afflictions such as chronic pain, depression, and PTSD.We share candid stories of personal encounters with the shortcomings of Western medicine and the profound relief alternative treatments offer. Sam's passionate narrative, spurred by the mental health struggles of those close to him, underscores the urgency of exploring these promising avenues for healing.Closing on a note of optimism and hope, we spotlight the treatment options that bring together unconventional paths to wellness. As we highlight the full spectrum of ketamine therapy's potential, including its non-addictive nature and the importance of a holistic health strategy, we invite you to join the conversation, share your narratives, and support one another in the unwavering pursuit of hope and healing through these groundbreaking therapies.(0:00:04) - Exploring Psychedelics for Healing Chronic Pain(0:04:26) - Psychedelics and Stigma Surrounding Drug Use(0:09:33) - Exploring the Benefits of Ketamine Treatment(0:15:50) - Psychedelics and Ketamine(0:25:22) - Hope and Healing Through Ketamine Therapy Website: https://ketamineclinics.comInstagram: @thesammandelTwitter: @thesammandelLinkedIn: @thesammandelWebsite: ketamineclinics.comTikTok: @thesammandel>> LISTEN here --> https://linktr.ee/thepaingamepodcast
The Stigma of Mental Health + Addiction
Dec 26 2023
The Stigma of Mental Health + Addiction
Embark on a profound exploration of the heart and the mind as we unravel the complexities of addiction and mental health, guided by the powerful narrative of Dr. Rob Kelly. His harrowing journey from a promising childhood to the depths of homelessness, due to the grip of alcoholism, lays bare the indiscriminate nature of addiction.Through our intimate dialogue, we shine a light on the often misunderstood connection between trauma, mental health, and substance abuse, challenging the stigma and offering a beacon of hope for those entangled in their own battles.Our discourse meanders into the deceptive allure of vodka among alcoholics and the pivotal role mental health plays in the development of addiction. Unpacking the layers, we discuss the revolutionary approaches to treatment that consider the individual’s entire ecosystem, including the critical support of the family. Personal triumphs over addiction interlace our conversation, serving as a testament to the potency of addressing underlying trauma and mental health concerns as the cornerstone of sustainable recovery.As we share stories of resilience, we also delve into the transformative power of community and the courage found in vulnerability.Whether it’s a story of overcoming personal trauma, or an anecdote of how revisiting a site of past pain can catalyze healing, each narrative reinforces the fundamental truth that we are not alone in our struggles. Our discourse culminates in a call to action, inviting listeners to join the conversation and support one another, as we foster a community where no one has to face their pain in solitude.(0:00:00) – Understanding Alcoholism and AddictionAddiction, trauma, and mental health are discussed, along with the stigma surrounding them, and the importance of education and personal choices.(0:10:55) – Understanding Alcoholism, Trauma, and AddictionAlcoholism’s impact on individuals, mental health’s role in addiction, innovative treatment approaches, and overcoming addiction through understanding and addressing underlying issues.(0:19:16) – Healing Trauma and Overcoming Mental IllnessListening to our bodies and intuition, brainspotting, self-worth, relationships, healing, and the impact of past traumas.(0:26:53) – Understanding Mental Illness and Treatment OptionsMental illness, therapy effectiveness, neuroplasticity, and uplifting each other for a more compassionate and healthy society.(0:33:27) – Recognizing Our Potential and Overcoming PainSelf-validation, gratitude, and rejecting societal limitations can lead to success and overcoming personal traumas and mental health challenges.(0:37:37) – Mental Health, Suicide, and Changing LivesPersonal story of loss, effects of neglect, transformative power of hardships, and creating a transparent foundation.(0:48:28) – Community SupportTransformative journey to address chronic pain and suicidal thoughts, reshaping mindsets, overcoming addiction, and healing together as a community.
From Crisis to Stillness
Dec 12 2023
From Crisis to Stillness
Tom Cronin's story is a fascinating journey from the fast-paced world of finance, reminiscent of The Wolf of Wall Street, to a life dedicated to promoting stillness and mindfulness. In the gripping interview with host Lyndsay Soprano, Tom opens up about his past of indulgence, leading to a crisis that prompted a radical transformation.From a stockbroker caught up in a lifestyle of excess to a meditation teacher, Tom is the visionary founder of The Stillness Project, a global movement aiming to inspire one billion people to incorporate stillness into their daily lives. His personal experience with a nervous breakdown at 29 and subsequent journey to self-discovery through meditation makes for a compelling narrative.In the conversation, Tom covers topics such as anxiety, panic attacks, insomnia, addiction, and imposter syndrome—issues prevalent in the high-stakes world he once inhabited.He delves into his own struggle with mental health, including agoraphobia, and shares how meditation became his lifeline during dark times. Transitioning from the chaos of the finance industry to advocating for change in individuals' lives, Tom discusses the transformative power of meditation and breathwork. He provides insights into Western medicine, highlighting the importance of holistic approaches to well-being.Tom's impact extends beyond personal transformation, as evidenced by his work with prestigious institutions like Amazon, Harvard Business School, and Coca-Cola.Through transformational leadership coaching and corporate training, he aims to reduce stress and chaos in people's lives, fostering a more balanced and mindful approach to work and personal well-being.With six published books, a meditation app, and the documentary "The Portal" to his name, Tom Cronin continues to be a beacon of inspiration for those seeking stillness in a frenetic world. His dedication to advocating for positive change and sharing the benefits of meditation underscores his commitment to making a difference in the lives of individuals and the world at large.Connect with Tom Cronin:Instagram: Tom Cronin InstagramFacebook: Tom Cronin FacebookYouTube: Stillness Project YouTubeTwitter: Tom Cronin TwitterLinkedIn: Tom Cronin LinkedInWebsite: Tom Cronin Official WebsiteTikTok: Tom Cronin TikTokBook to explore: Enter the Portal