The Pain Factor

Adriene Caldwell is the Author of “Unbroken: Life outside the lines”, a story of destruction and discovery - of darkness given free rein and an innate light that refuses to dim.In this compelling interview, Adrian shares her inspiring journey from a traumatic childhood marked by abuse, loss, and mental health struggles to a life of hope, resilience, and purpose. She discusses the importance of understanding trauma, the power of forgiveness, and the need for societal change to better support foster children and trauma survivors.Follow Adriene:on Instagram: #unbrokencaldwellon Facebook: facebook.com/UnbrokenCaldwelLearn more about Adriene at www.unbrokencaldwell.comThe Pain Factor is a Project Fourtress podcast.Project Fourtress is a secular, humanist project, dedicated to find answers to the physical, mental and emotional pain people experience, as well as offer help to deal with these issues. To learn more about Project Fourtress, please visit fourtress.org.

Nancy Deyo is a former Silicon Valley CEO, author and speaker, and a Stanford Distinguished Careers Institute Fellow. Her forthcoming memoir, Perilous Ascent, chronicles a fifteen-year journey through misdiagnosis, chronic pain, opioid dependence, mania, and a marriage pushed to its limits.​In this episode, Nancy shares her 15-year journey through chronic pain, opioid dependence, and personal transformation after a life-changing Kilimanjaro climb. Discover insights on pain, resilience, and redefining success beyond failure.Follow Nancy:on Substack: "Life inside pain" -  @nancydeyoThe Pain Factor is a Project Fourtress podcast.Project Fourtress is a secular, humanist project, dedicated to find answers to the physical, mental and emotional pain people experience, as well as offer help to deal with these issues. To learn more about Project Fourtress, please visit fourtress.org.

Dr. Jess Armine is a functional medicine practitioner with nearly 50 years of clinical experience. He specializes in Long COVID, post-viral syndromes, and complex chronic illness. His work focuses on mitochondrial dysfunction, immune dysregulation, oxidative stress, and nervous system imbalance, helping patients recover when conventional approaches fall short. He’s also a researcher, educator, and podcast host dedicated to translating complex science into practical healing strategies.In this insightful interview, Dr. Jess Armine shares his extensive experience in functional medicine, focusing on chronic illness, pain management, and the importance of understanding the body's systems. Discover how a holistic, individualized approach can transform health and recovery.Follow Dr. Jess Armine:on Instagram: #drjessarmine724on Facebook: facebook.com/jess.armine.2025on YouTube: youtube.com/@DrJessArmineLearn more about Dr. Armine's work at www.drjessarmine.com.The Pain Factor is a Project Fourtress podcast.Project Fourtress is a secular, humanist project, dedicated to find answers to the physical, mental and emotional pain people experience, as well as offer help to deal with these issues. To learn more about Project Fourtress, please visit fourtress.org.

Brian Desroches, PhD, is a licensed marriage and family therapist, neuroscientist, and author of Living a Triggered Free Life.In this eye-opening episode, Brian DesRoches reveals how your brain’s survival bias keeps you stuck in self-sabotage, anxiety, and old habits—and how, with specific techniques, you can harness neuroscience to create lasting change. You’ll discover how emotional memories—both past and “of the future”—shape your reactions and why triggers aren’t just random, but neural networks stored deep in your brain.Purchase Brian's book here.Learn more about Brian's work at www.briandesroches.com.The Pain Factor is a Project Fourtress podcast.Project Fourtress is a secular, humanist project, dedicated to find answers to the physical, mental and emotional pain people experience, as well as offer help to deal with these issues. To learn more about Project Fourtress, please visit fourtress.org.

Linda Feig Knipe has a Bachelors Degree in Psychology from the State University of UNY at Potsdam, and a Master's Degree and Certificate of Advanced Study in Counselor Education from the State University of New York at Buffalo. She's also the author of “Braving Therapy”, a compelling memoir about the Triumphant Journey Over PTSD, where she delves into the profound journey of healing and self discovery.In this conversation, Linda Feig Knipe shares her profound journey through trauma and therapy, discussing the complexities of PTSD, the importance of finding the right therapist, and the challenges of addressing mental health issues. She emphasizes the need for vulnerability in therapy, the distinction between pain and suffering, and the significance of self-compassion in the healing process. Linda's insights provide a roadmap for those navigating their own journeys of healing and self-discovery.Follow Linda:on Instagram: #l._feig_knipeon Facebook: facebook.com/linda.z.knipeLearn more about Asher's work at feigknipe.com.Purchase Linda's book here.The Pain Factor is a Project Fourtress podcast.Project Fourtress is a secular, humanist project, dedicated to find answers to the physical, mental and emotional pain people experience, as well as offer help to deal with these issues. To learn more about Project Fourtress, please visit fourtress.org.

Asher Lester is a Certified 3rd Degree Krav Maga black belt instructor, with a Bachelor’s degree in psychology and a master’s degree in education with an emphasis in Behavior Analysis. He is also a breathing/meditation coach with 10 certifications in those fieldsIn this conversation, Gustavo and Asher explore the complex relationship between pain, fear, and personal growth. Asher shares his journey through trauma and how it shaped his understanding of pain as a necessary part of life. They discuss the importance of facing challenges, the concept of voluntary suffering, and how mindfulness and meditation can help manage pain and uncertainty. The conversation emphasizes that growth cannot occur without experiencing discomfort and that resilience is built through consistent effort and facing fears head-on.Follow Asher:on Instagram: #nervousapeson Facebook: facebook.com/nervousapesLearn more about Asher's work at www.nervousapes.com.The Pain Factor is a Project Fourtress podcast.Project Fourtress is a secular, humanist project, dedicated to find answers to the physical, mental and emotional pain people experience, as well as offer help to deal with these issues. To learn more about Project Fourtress, please visit fourtress.org.

Leigh Brandon is a CHEK (Corrective, Holistic, Exercise, and Kinesiology) Practitioner and Faculty Instructor, Functional Medicine Practitioner, Manual Therapist, Emotion Code Practitioner and the author and host of "Beyond the Pain" Podcast. He has almost 30 years specializing in helping people overcome chronic pain by uncovering the root causes — whether structural, biochemical, emotional, or environmental — and guiding them through sustainable lifestyle change so they can become responsible for their own health.In this conversation, Gustavo and Leigh explore the multifaceted nature of pain, emphasizing that it can be a gift that signals underlying issues. Leigh shares his extensive experience in helping individuals manage chronic pain through holistic approaches, including understanding the root causes, the importance of mindset, and the interplay between physical and emotional health. They discuss how societal conditioning often leads to a misunderstanding of pain, and how addressing both physical and emotional aspects can lead to effective pain management and recovery.Follow Leigh:on Instagram: #beyondthepainpodon YouTube: @beyondthepainpodcaston X: Beyond the PainLearn more about Leigh's work at BodyCHECK.co.uy.You can also download the Pain-Free Plate here.The Pain Factor is a Project Fourtress podcast.Project Fourtress is a secular, humanist project, dedicated to find answers to the physical, mental and emotional pain people experience, as well as offer help to deal with these issues. To learn more about Project Fourtress, please visit fourtress.org.

Gwen Bernardo is a myofascial release therapist specializing in fascial health and chronic pain reliefIn this episode of The Pain Factor, Gwen Bernardo shares her personal journey through chronic pain and the transformative power of myofascial release therapy. Gwen recounts her traumatic horseback riding accident in 2004, which led to years of physical and emotional pain. She discusses how pain can manifest from both physical trauma and emotional baggage, emphasizing the importance of understanding pain as a complex experience rather than merely a physical sensation. Through her own healing journey, Gwen discovered the profound impact of addressing the emotional aspects of pain, leading her to a breakthrough with myofascial release therapy that ultimately changed her life.Follow Gwen on Instagram: #performancemfrLearn more about Gwen at performancemfr.com.Learn more about MRT at myofascialrelease.com.The Pain Factor is a Project Fourtress podcast.Project Fourtress is a secular, humanist project, dedicated to find answers to the physical, mental and emotional pain people experience, as well as offer help to deal with these issues. To learn more about Project Fourtress, please visit fourtress.org.

Dr. Lynn Banis is a Doctor of Philosophy, with a PhD in Industrial Organizational Psychology. She is also a Grief and Resilience Mentor, an Expert Transformational Coach, international best-selling author, and the founder and owner of Widows Rising Together, compassionate community dedicated to empowering widows as they navigate their new realities, provide unwavering support, foster resilience, and inspire transformation.In this episode of The Pain Factor, Dr. Lynn Banis discusses the complexities of grief and the journey of healing. She shares her personal experiences of loss, having lost her mother, brother, and husband within a short span of time. She emphasizes that grief is not merely sadness but a disorienting experience that can leave individuals feeling lost and unsure of their identity. The discussion delves into the misconceptions surrounding grief, the role of guilt and shame, and the importance of accepting loss as a part of life. Dr. Banis advocates for a supportive approach to helping those in grief, highlighting the need for understanding rather than fixing, and the significance of simply being present for someone in pain.Follow Dr. Banis:on Instagram: #banislynnon Facebook: facebook.com/lbanison LinkedInLearn more about Widows Rising Together here.The Pain Factor is a Project Fourtress podcast.Project Fourtress is a secular, humanist project, dedicated to find answers to the physical, mental and emotional pain people experience, as well as offer help to deal with these issues. To learn more about Project Fourtress, please visit fourtress.org.

Garrett Wood is a National Board-Certified Health and Wellness Coach, Clinical Hypnotherapist, Executive Functioning Specialist, Founder of Gnosis Therapy and developer of the A³ Framework —Assess, Accommodate, Align— which maps capacity across seven drivers of performance: sensory intelligence, bio-budgets, emotional regulation, core beliefs, attachment patterns, values, and executive functioning strengths. He applies outcome-based coaching, somatic regulation, and clinical hypnotherapy to end the boom-and-bust cycle of burnout.In this conversation, we explore the intricate relationship between pain, burnout, and emotional well-being. Garret describes how societal pressures and misalignment in personal and professional lives contribute to burnout, emphasizing the importance of understanding pain beyond physical symptoms. He shares his personal experiences with chronic pain and burnout, highlighting the biopsychosocial model of health and the need for compassion and curiosity in addressing these issues. The discussion also touches on the role of guilt and shame in our perceptions of pain and the importance of aligning our needs with our environments for better mental and physical health.Follow Garret on Instagram: #gnosistherapyLearn more about Gnosis Therapy here.The Pain Factor is a Project Fourtress podcast.Project Fourtress is a secular, humanist project, dedicated to find answers to the physical, mental and emotional pain people experience, as well as offer help to deal with these issues. To learn more about Project Fourtress, please visit fourtress.org.

Megha Parekh is the Executive Vice President and Chief Legal Officer of the Jacksonville Jaguars, and she has been with the Jaguars since 2013.In this conversation, Megha shares her journey of trauma recovery, emphasizing the importance of living authentically and embracing complexity. She discusses the nature of pain and suffering, the impact of guilt and shame, and the value of seeking professional help. Megha highlights the stigma surrounding mental health and the difference between being a victim and feeling victimized. She offers insights on how to support loved ones in crisis, the dangers of misguided advice, and the need for societal change in perceptions of mental health. Ultimately, she reflects on finding gratitude in adversity and transforming pain into strength.Follow Megha on Instagram: #meghalegalgirl10Learn more about:The Fire Watch, an organization hat has trained more than 10,000 Floridians in Veteran Suicide prevention.Be Nice (Notice - Invite - Challenge - Empower), a foundation in West Michigan dedicated to promoting mental health awareness and preventing suicideThe Pain Factor is a Project Fourtress podcast.Project Fourtress is a secular, humanist project, dedicated to find answers to the physical, mental and emotional pain people experience, as well as offer help to deal with these issues. To learn more about Project Fourtress, please visit fourtress.org.

In this conversation, Lisa Franz, a nutrition coach and trainer, discusses the multifaceted nature of pain and its impact on life quality, particularly in relation to nutrition and weight loss. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the deeper sources of pain, the role of shame and motivation in weight loss, and the necessity of consistency in achieving long-term health goals. Lisa shares her personal journey from a life of discomfort to one of fulfillment, encouraging listeners to embrace discomfort as a part of growth and to strive for a life they love.You can learn more about Coach Lisa at nutritioncoachingandlife.comFollow her on Instagram: #nutritioncoachingandlifeThe Pain Factor is a Project Fourtress podcast.Project Fourtress is a secular, humanist project, dedicated to find answers to the physical, mental and emotional pain people experience, as well as offer help to deal with these issues. To learn more about Project Fourtress, please visit fourtress.org.

Judy Gaman is the CEO of Executive Medicine of Texas, an award-winning author, speaker, and host of the Stay Young America! PodcastIn this conversation, she shares her insights on pain, its management, and the interconnectedness of emotional and physical health. With over 25 years in the healthcare industry, she emphasizes the importance of recognizing pain as a valid experience and understanding its origins.You can learn more about Judy's work and journey at https://www.judygaman.com/The Pain Factor is a Project Fourtress podcast.Project Fourtress is a secular, humanist project, dedicated to find answers to the physical, mental and emotional pain people experience, as well as offer help to deal with these issues. To learn more about Project Fourtress, please visit fourtress.org.

In this episode of TPF, we explore the interaction between darkness and light. We discuss how true victory isn't about eliminating darkness entirely, but about understanding how to navigate and "walk on" it. The conversation concludes by challenging the fear of shadows, reframing them as the ultimate indicator of brightness.The Pain Factor is a Project Fourtress podcast.Project Fourtress is a secular, humanist project, dedicated to find answers to the physical, mental and emotional pain people experience, as well as offer help to deal with these issues. To learn more about Project Fourtress, please visit fourtress.org.

On this episode of TPF, we explore how constant external noise—coming from news, social media, and other people's endless chatter—distracts us from our goals. We examine how this relentless input debilitates our minds and bodies, ultimately worsening our pain.The Pain Factor is a Project Fourtress podcast.Project Fourtress is a secular, humanist project, dedicated to find answers to the physical, mental and emotional pain people experience, as well as offer help to deal with these issues. To learn more about Project Fourtress, please visit fourtress.org.

On this episode of The Pain Factor, we analyze the "electrocardiogram" of our lives. Are we truly living, or merely existing? We explore the inseparable link between pain and change: recognizing that growth demands discomfort, advancement requires concession, and lasting relief can only be found by facing the pain head-on.The Pain Factor is a Project Fourtress podcast.Project Fourtress is a secular, humanist project, dedicated to find answers to the physical, mental and emotional pain people experience, as well as offer help to deal with these issues. To learn more about Project Fourtress, please visit fourtress.org.

What does it mean to create a life you love when you're also living with constant pain? This idea can feel impossible, and even condescending.On this episode of TPF, we dig into the motivations behind this powerful question and explore the difficult reality of pursuing joy amidst mental, physical, or emotional struggles. How can you practically build a fulfilling life, one detail at a time, when it feels like everything is working against you?We'll discuss how a deeper understanding of the details and organization of your life can provide a path forward.The Pain Factor is a Project Fourtress podcast.Project Fourtress is a secular, humanist project, dedicated to find answers to the physical, mental and emotional pain people experience, as well as offer help to deal with these issues. To learn more about Project Fourtress, please visit fourtress.org.

On this episode of TPF, we take a respite to stop and contemplate what the one thing in your daily life that calms you down and brings you deep joy is. What offers a quiet reprieve from the everyday struggle? This week on, we take a moment to consider that question. We’ll analyze why finding your source of peace, your "painkiller" is so important and how consistently focusing on it can change your life.The Pain Factor is a Project Fourtress podcast.Project Fourtress is a secular, humanist project, dedicated to find answers to the physical, mental and emotional pain people experience, as well as offer help to deal with these issues. To learn more about Project Fourtress, please visit fourtress.org.

Ready to stop making excuses? On this episode of TPF, we challenge you to face a simple question: Have you truly considered therapy, or have you simply dismissed it? We cut through the common myths and excuses to reveal why it’s a powerful tool for change, and why now is the time to bet on yourself instead of flat-out dismissing this powerful option for personal growth to start taking action and build a better future for yourself.The Pain Factor is a Project Fourtress podcast.Project Fourtress is a secular, humanist project, dedicated to find answers to the physical, mental and emotional pain people experience, as well as offer help to deal with these issues. To learn more about Project Fourtress, please visit fourtress.org.

On this episode of TPF, we challenge the myth of relentless positivity. We'll discuss how forced optimism can invalidate our struggles, sabotage our plans, and paralyze us from moving forward. This isn't about just wishing for a better future—it's about building one, starting now.The Pain Factor is a Project Fourtress podcast.Project Fourtress is a secular, humanist project, dedicated to find answers to the physical, mental and emotional pain people experience, as well as offer help to deal with these issues. To learn more about Project Fourtress, please visit fourtress.org.

This episode of TPF is about taking action. We dive into the struggle of admitting you need help and taking the courageous step to ask for it. We’ll examine the demands of modern life, the fear of public judgment, the anxiety of being exposed and discover how to build resilience and create powerful, positive change.The Pain Factor is a Project Fourtress podcast.Project Fourtress is a secular, humanist project, dedicated to find answers to the physical, mental and emotional pain people experience, as well as offer help to deal with these issues. To learn more about Project Fourtress, please visit fourtress.org.

In this episode of TPF, we're diving into a topic that, while potentially uncomfortable, is supported by scientific evidence. Instead of pointing fingers, we'll get honest about the common reasons and excuses people use to avoid confronting the effectiveness of this "super pill," and look for accurate answers to some tough questions.The Pain Factor is a Project Fourtress podcast.Project Fourtress is a secular, humanist project, dedicated to find answers to the physical, mental and emotional pain people experience, as well as offer help to deal with these issues. To learn more about Project Fourtress, please visit fourtress.org.

In this episode of TPF, we confront a frustrating reality: how wasting time can intensify our pain. In a society where distraction has become the norm rather than the exception, we must ask ourselves which habits we need to shed and which we need to cultivate if we truly want to grow, improve ourselves, and break free from painful realities.The Pain Factor is a Project Fourtress podcast.Project Fourtress is a secular, humanist project, dedicated to find answers to the physical, mental and emotional pain people experience, as well as offer help to deal with these issues. To learn more about Project Fourtress, please visit fourtress.org.

In this episode of TPF, we explore the impact and the extent of control that depression can have over our lives. We also examine external factors, such as ignorance and stigma, that amplify our struggle with depression. Toward the end, we confront a pressing question: Is pain an inevitable consequence for those who battle with depression?The Pain Factor is a Project Fourtress podcast.Project Fourtress is a secular, humanist project, dedicated to find answers to the physical, mental and emotional pain people experience, as well as offer help to deal with these issues. To learn more about Project Fourtress, please visit fourtress.org.

In this episode of TPF, we explore pain from an unconventional perspective: How can pain be helpful? Yes, you read that right—pain can serve a purpose, even though it may seem counterintuitive at first. Are there opportunities or situations where we can harness pain for our benefit? While this episode doesn't advocate glorifying pain, it is dedicated to examining how it can function as a messenger and a valuable tool in our growth and healing.The Pain Factor is a Project Fourtress podcast.Project Fourtress is a secular, humanist project, dedicated to find answers to the physical, mental and emotional pain people experience, as well as offer help to deal with these issues. To learn more about Project Fourtress, please visit fourtress.org.

In this episode of TPF, we delve into some adverse aspects of pain. Emotions such as fear and guilt, along with others, can serve as formidable foes—burdening us with weight and crushing us down. Our goal? Exploring meaningful insights and discover ways to confront and transcend these emotional challenges.The Pain Factor is a Project Fourtress podcast.Project Fourtress is a secular, humanist project, dedicated to find answers to the physical, mental and emotional pain people experience, as well as offer help to deal with these issues. To learn more about Project Fourtress, please visit fourtress.org.

In this episode of TPF, we embark on a journey to explore our relationship with pain by delving into some fundamental concepts. We discuss the basics of physical, mental, and emotional pain, highlighting their key distinctions. While this chapter may appear somewhat "technical," it serves to lay the groundwork  for the episodes that will follow.The Pain Factor is a Project Fourtress podcast.Project Fourtress is a secular, humanist project, dedicated to find answers to the physical, mental and emotional pain people experience, as well as offer help to deal with these issues. To learn more about Project Fourtress, please visit fourtress.org.

On this episode of TPF, I welcome you and explain in some detail what we will be discussing and learning, as well as what the plans and goals for the future are. I've always been a strong believer in talking, in communicating and learning, so it only made sense to establish a channel through which I could do that: talk and communicate.So, come join us on this adventure that will help us explore The Pain Factor.The Pain Factor is a Project Fourtress podcast.Project Fourtress is a secular, humanist project, dedicated to find answers to the physical, mental and emotional pain people experience, as well as offer help to deal with these issues. To learn more about Project Fourtress, please visit fourtress.org.