What does it take to confront addiction and reclaim your identity? Lyndsay Soprano and Lauren Fay unravel their deeply personal journeys of healing, touching on the complex roles of alcohol, childhood trauma, and the challenge of rebuilding trust with oneself. Their conversation sheds light on the seductive allure of alcohol as a coping mechanism and the double lives many lead while struggling in silence.

Lauren shares insights into the delicate balance of fitting in and managing social expectations, while Lyndsay reflects on the anxiety and sleeplessness that pushed her toward alcohol at an early age. Together, they reveal how healing involves much more than sobriety—it’s about courageously addressing past traumas, recognizing the power of community, and discovering strength through vulnerability. What does it mean to face awkwardness in sobriety and find self-worth beyond a substance? 

Their stories inspire us to reframe recovery, embrace empathy, and recognize the impact of openly sharing our experiences—not only for ourselves but also for those who may still be suffering in silence.

Find Lauren Fay Online Here:
Instagram: @laurenfaycoaching
LinkedIn: Lauren Fay
Website: www.laurenfaycoaching.com

Find The Pain Game Podcast Online Here:
Website: thepaingamepodcast.com
Instagram: @thepaingamepodcast

Episode Highlights:
(00:00) Introduction to Chronic Pain and Trauma
(01:51) Early Encounters with Alcohol
(04:37) The Journey to Sobriety Begins
(09:19) Rock Bottom and Realizations
(12:26) Childhood Trauma and Its Impact
(15:42) Reclaiming Power and Identity
(21:21) Steps to Recovery and Support
(24:08) Spiritual Awakening and Self-Discovery
(25:33) Facing the Fear of Dying and Chronic Pain
(31:15) From Victimhood to Empowerment
(37:29) The Journey of Self-Discovery and Coaching
(44:29) Reclaiming Identity Beyond Alcohol
(49:19) The Importance of Community and Support

What does it take to break free from conventional medical norms and truly advocate for your health? In this episode, Lyndsay Soprano and Dee Davidson unpack the transformative journey of reclaiming health through functional medicine. Their discussion pulls back the curtain on the ways traditional healthcare often overlooks individual needs, especially for women facing unique challenges like hormone imbalances and perimenopause. How can you ensure that your body’s signals aren’t dismissed—and instead, become your most powerful guide?

Dee Davidson brings insight into the world of functional health, sharing strategies for building a personalized approach that connects mind, body, and spirit. Together, they discuss why it’s crucial to navigate health with a deep understanding of your identity, emotional well-being, and the hidden stressors that often go ignored. If stress is manifesting as physical issues, how can you begin to unpack the root causes?

This conversation inspires us to question how we can regain control, tap into resilience, and invite positive change into our wellness journeys.

Find Dee Davidson Online Here:
Instagram: @confidently_love_yourself
Facebook: Dee Viveiros Davidson 
LinkedIn: Dee Davidson
Podcast: Confidently Balance Your Hormones
Website: https://confidentlyloveyourself.com

Find The Pain Game Podcast Online Here:
Website: thepaingamepodcast.com
Instagram: @thepaingamepodcast

Episode Highlights:
(00:00) Introduction to Chronic Pain and Trauma
(03:00) Transitioning from Western to Functional Medicine
(06:13) The Journey of Holistic Health and Hormone Balance
(09:57) Understanding the Role of Hormones in Health
(14:06) The Importance of Personal Advocacy in Health
(18:10) Navigating Identity and Health Challenges
(21:56) Building a Supportive Community for Healing
(26:04) Conclusion and Resources for Self-Love and Healing

Self-advocacy in healthcare can mean the difference between living in chronic pain and finding a path to true healing. Dr. Shadi Vahdat joins Lyndsay Soprano to uncover how childhood trauma, cultural beliefs, and generational experiences shape our health—right down to our DNA. Dr. Vahdat shares insights on why trauma manifests in physical symptoms and explains how functional medicine bridges the gap where conventional approaches fall short.

The conversation shines a light on managing complex chronic illnesses like Lyme disease and CRPS, stressing the importance of a strong, supportive healthcare team and the role of emotional healing in physical recovery. Dr. Vahdat reveals what it takes to prepare for health emergencies and navigate a healthcare system that’s often unequipped to help chronic pain patients.

From building your own “health board of directors” to understanding the power of patient advocacy, this episode is packed with strategies for taking charge of your health and making sure your voice is heard.

Find Dr. Shadi Vahdat Online Here:
Instagram: @drshadivahdat
Facebook: Shadi Vahdat, MD
LinkedIn: Shadi Vahdat, MD
Book: The Roadmap To Hospital Care: Insights On Preparing For Health Emergencies & Hospital Stays With Confidence
Website: https://livewellintegrative.com/

Find The Pain Game Podcast Online Here:
Website: thepaingamepodcast.com
Instagram: @thepaingamepodcast

Episode Highlights:
(00:00) Introduction to Chronic Pain and Advocacy
(03:02) The Healthcare System and Personal Experiences
(05:53) Childhood Trauma and Its Impact
(09:03) Generational Trauma and Health
(11:53) The Role of Trauma in Healing
(14:45) Integrating Conventional and Holistic Medicine
(18:05) Navigating Healthcare and Personal Advocacy
(23:14) Navigating the Healthcare System
(30:02) Chronic Pain Management Strategies
(36:04) Preparing for Health Emergencies
(42:14) Advocacy in Healthcare

Tailoring cannabis and CBD to your DNA has the potential to transform your health. Len May, CEO of EndoDNA, shares his groundbreaking journey from using cannabis to manage ADD to becoming a global authority on medicinal cannabis and the endocannabinoid system. He explains how understanding your unique genetic makeup can help you avoid negative side effects and get the most out of your cannabis experience.

This episode delivers a deep dive into personalized medicine, revealing how cannabis can be a tool to enhance longevity and improve quality of life. Whether you’re experienced with cannabis or just starting, Len’s insights offer a fresh perspective on using DNA to make cannabis work better for you.

Find Len May Online Here:
Instagram: @lenmaydna
Facebook: Len May
YouTube: Len May DNA
Book: Making Cannabis Personal
Podcast: Everything is Personal
Website: EndoDNA.com

Find The Pain Game Podcast Online Here:
Website: thepaingamepodcast.com
Instagram: @thepaingamepodcast

Episode Highlights:
(00:00) Introduction to Chronic Pain and Cannabis
(02:31) Personalized Medicine and Cannabis
(06:45) Understanding the Endocannabinoid System
(10:58) The Role of DNA in Cannabis Use
(19:15) The Process of DNA Testing for Cannabis
(28:53) Precision Wellness and Healthcare Collaboration
(36:32) Empowering Patients Through Knowledge

Esther Gokhale, the creator of the Gokhale Method, joins Lyndsay Soprano to share her transformative approach to back pain and posture. Drawing from her own experience with debilitating pain during pregnancy, Esther sheds light on the root causes of spinal discomfort, focusing on how modern habits have distorted natural postures. 

Instead of labeling the human body as flawed, Esther explains how our misuse of it is the real issue. Her method emphasizes techniques like "stretch sitting" to naturally realign the spine and relieve pressure. Simple adjustments in daily routines can create lasting relief, showing that pain management is within reach for everyone.

Listeners will find practical steps to regain control over their bodies and reclaim a pain-free life through these thoughtful, anthropological insights into posture and structural health.

Find Esther Gokhale Online Here:
Instagram: @gokhalemethod
Facebook: Gokhale Method
YouTube: Gokhale Method
Book: 8 Steps to a Pain-Free Back, by Esther Gokhale
Website: www.gokhalemethod.com

Find The Pain Game Podcast Online Here:
Website: thepaingamepodcast.com
Instagram: @thepaingamepodcast

Episode Highlights:
(00:00) Introduction to Chronic Pain and Healing
(02:33) Understanding Back Pain and Its Impact
(04:53) Esther Gauklai's Journey with Back Pain
(09:57) The Gokhale Method: A New Approach to Pain Relief
(17:49) Posture, Movement, and Emotional Health
(26:09) Hope and Healing: A Message for Chronic Pain Sufferers

Lyndsay Soprano connects with grief and trauma specialist Denise Dielwart, who has turned her own immense pain into a source of healing for others. Denise recounts the sudden loss of her husband in 2009, a tragedy that revealed the shortcomings of traditional grief support. Through this experience, she developed her own approach—the Flow Grief Release Method—which has since empowered many to move through their grief more gently and effectively.

Together, Lyndsay and Denise broaden the conversation around grief, pointing out that it isn’t limited to the death of a loved one but can stem from any profound loss, whether that’s a relationship, career, or pet. The discussion highlights the importance of fully embracing emotions and finding the right tools to release them, allowing for transformation and growth.

Listeners are reminded that grief is a unique journey, with no set timeline or formula. This episode offers both validation and hope, emphasizing that healing is within reach for everyone.

Find Denise Dielwart Online Here:
Instagram: @denisedielwart_grief_unlocked
Facebook: Denise Dielwart- International Grief Trauma expert 
YouTube: Denise Dielwart
Podcast: Grief UNLOCKED - Reimagining Life After Loss
Website: www.flowgriefacademy.com

Find The Pain Game Podcast Online Here:
Website: thepaingamepodcast.com
Instagram: @thepaingamepodcast

Episode Highlights:
(00:00) Everyone in the chronic pain and trauma space has experienced loss.
(02:32) Meet grief and trauma expert, Denise Dielwart.
(04:22) Denise shares the sudden loss of her husband in 2009.
(08:41) Discussing women who turned to alcohol after losing their spouses.
(13:18) Pain isn't just physical; it can manifest in many ways.
(16:34) Grief takes various forms beyond death.
(19:25) Denise created the Flow Method to help process grief.
(24:18) Grief is energy in motion—both positive and negative.
(28:16) Letting go of grief requires redefining your identity.
(32:45) Self-love is key to putting ourselves first.
(34:23) The impact of child loss on relationships.
(38:49) Denise's journey to rediscovering her identity.
(43:38) Anxiety as a coping mechanism for loss.

Throughout this transformative episode, Lyndsay Soprano takes you on a raw, unfiltered journey into the heart of anxiety with special guest John Graham, a three-time USA Memory Champion and Grandmaster of Memory. Anxiety isn't just a word—it's a constant, often invisible force that many battle with every day, and for Lyndsay, it's been a lifelong adversary, haunting her since she was just nine years old. Together, Lyndsay and John open up about their deeply personal experiences with anxiety, offering a window into the pain, chaos, and overwhelming fear that so often come with it.

John's story takes a powerful turn as he describes his transition from relentless panic attacks to discovering unconventional ways to heal. Forget the usual advice; John introduces a method called "collecting potential," which reshapes how we think about managing anxiety. By rewiring the nervous system, releasing pent-up emotions, and confronting the mental traps that hold us back, he found his way out of the storm—and he's here to share how you can, too.

This isn't just another conversation about anxiety. It’s an invitation to look at the beast in the mirror, challenge its grip, and uncover the possibilities waiting beneath the surface. Whether you've felt trapped by your own mind or know someone who has, this episode brings hope, insight, and real-life tools to help break the cycle and reclaim your peace.

Find John Graham Online Here:
Instagram: @memoryjohng
Facebook: John Graham
YouTube: John Graham - USA Memory Champion
Linked In: John Graham
Website: optimizeyourmind.co

Find The Pain Game Podcast Online Here:
Website: thepaingamepodcast.com
Instagram: @thepaingamepodcast

Episode Highlights:
(00:00) Welcome to The Pain Game Podcast, where we discuss chronic pain and trauma.
(04:11) John battled anxiety and panic attacks for 20 years using unconventional techniques.
(08:47) Lyndsay shares her experience with anti-anxiety medication.
(14:38) The instinct to immediately want to rid yourself of anxiety.
(17:56) John shares what he's done to manage anxiety.
(18:14) Unresolved moments from your past stay with you.
(21:41) Lyndsay struggles with controlling anxiety during meditation.
(28:05) The concept of letting go of anxiety and expanding your capacity.
(34:34) Does releasing suppressed emotions ease anxiety?
(36:53) The challenge of letting go of the mind’s identity.
(42:48) How do you escape anxiety in the moment?
(47:25) Releasing emotions increases your potential.
(56:41) Make peace with the things that bother you.

In this powerful episode, Lyndsay Soprano and Meg Appelgate, co-founder and CEO of Unsilenced, confront the hidden atrocities of the troubled teen industry (TTI). Lyndsay courageously shares her own scars from trauma and abuse, setting a raw and unfiltered tone for the conversation. Meg then opens up about her own nightmare—being kidnapped at 15 and subjected to years of relentless psychological abuse within TTI programs.

This episode pulls back the curtain on a $23 billion industry that thrives on the suffering of vulnerable children, exposing the shocking truths that have been kept in the shadows for far too long. It’s a conversation that resonates deeply with anyone who has felt the sting of trauma or stands beside someone who has. 

Meg's journey from a victim to a fierce advocate is nothing short of inspiring. Her relentless pursuit of justice through Unsilenced offers not just hope, but a roadmap for reclaiming one's life after trauma. This episode is a rallying cry for change, urging us all to listen, act, and support those working to dismantle a broken system and protect future generations.

Find Meg Appelgate Online Here:
Instagram: @megappelgate
Facebook: Meg Appelgate
LinkedIn: Meg Appelgate
Website: megappelgate.com
TikTok: @megappelgate

Find The Pain Game Podcast Online Here:
Website: thepaingamepodcast.com
Instagram: @thepaingamepodcast

Episode Highlights:
(00:00) Introduction to The Pain Game Podcast
(02:15) Lyndsay's personal trauma and its impact
(10:40) Introduction of Meg Applegate and her work with Unsilenced
(15:30) Meg's abduction and initial experiences in TTI programs
(25:45) The psychological and emotional abuse within TTI
(35:20) The financial and political aspects of the troubled teen industry
(45:10) Meg's journey to becoming unsilenced and advocating for others
(55:30) The importance of addressing trauma and mental health
(01:05:00) Resources and support for survivors of TTI
(01:10:00) Final thoughts and words of encouragement for listeners

Lyndsay Soprano explores the incredible benefits of magnesium with Natalie Jurado, the visionary behind Rooted In, a company known for its therapeutic magnesium-infused moisturizers. Natalie opens up about her battle with severe insomnia and anxiety and how her discovery of magnesium became a game-changer in her life. Together, they uncover how this essential mineral can work wonders on insomnia, pain, and stress by delivering it straight to the cells that need it most. From supporting over 700 biochemical reactions in the body to enhancing muscle and nerve function, magnesium is presented as a key to unlocking better sleep, mood, and overall well-being.

As a thought leader and educator, Natalie challenges common misconceptions about magnesium and emphasizes its indispensable role in our health. She also gives us a behind-the-scenes look at how she developed her luxurious magnesium creams, crafted to be as enjoyable as they are effective—standing out in a market full of less appealing options.

This episode is packed with inspiration and practical tips for anyone facing the challenges of chronic pain, insomnia, or stress, offering a fresh perspective on living a healthier, more vibrant life.

Find Natalie Online Here:
Instagram: @berootedin
Facebook: Rooted In
Website: berootedin.com
LinkedIn: Natalie Jurado

Find The Pain Game Podcast Online Here:
Website: thepaingamepodcast.com
Instagram: @thepaingamepodcast

Episode Highlights:
(00:00) Introduction and Personal Experience
(02:06) Understanding Magnesium and Its Importance
(09:05) The Widespread Issue of Magnesium Deficiency
(15:23) Magnesium for Mood, Workouts, and Weight Loss
(19:27) Magnesium's Role in Reducing Cholesterol Levels
(21:13) Dosing and Regulation of Magnesium Cream
(27:27) The Drawbacks of Pill Form Magnesium and the Importance of Diet
(37:29) The Role of Magnesium in Pain Relief and Muscle Relaxation

Lyndsay Soprano and Hannah Tuckett tackle the all-too-common struggle of burnout in this eye-opening episode of The Pain Game Podcast. With a focus on the fine line between boundaries and balance, Lyndsay reflects on her own journey of battling burnout fueled by a relentless drive for success and the urge to please others. Meanwhile, Hannah, a seasoned burnout coach, shares her hard-earned wisdom, revealing the moment in 2017 when she realized she could no longer continue living in overdrive.

For anyone feeling trapped in the exhausting cycle of overachievement and self-neglect, this episode offers a refreshing perspective. Hannah's compassionate guidance and practical tips light the way toward breaking free from burnout and embracing a more authentic, balanced life.

Find Hannah Online Here:

Website: www.serenesuccess.net
Instagram: @serene_success
Facebook: Hannah Tackett

Find The Pain Game Podcast Online Here:

Website: thepaingamepodcast.com
Instagram: @thepaingamepodcast

Episode Highlights:
(00:00) This podcast focuses on living with chronic pain and trauma
(02:10) Introduction to the topic of burnout
(10:30) Lyndsay's personal journey with burnout
(15:45) The impact of people-pleasing on burnout
(20:20) Hannah Tuckett's story and her path to becoming a burnout coach
(25:50) The four success traps: people-pleasing, perfectionism, overextending, and overachieving
(30:15) The role of fear in driving burnout
(35:00) The secret key to ending burnout: authenticity
(40:10) Practical strategies for aligning with your core values
(45:20) Energizing your being and resetting your nervous system
(50:30) The importance of setting boundaries and asserting your voice
(55:00) Claiming your surplus and focusing on self-care
(01:00:00) Final thoughts and words of encouragement for listeners