Bending Over Backwards

A lot of people still think motivation is the answer, but the truth is discipline is what keeps things moving. Motivation feels good in the moment, but it disappears fast. Discipline is what actually helps you build habits, face challenges, and keep moving forward when life gets hard.In this episode of *Bending Over Backwards*, Dr. James Adkins is joined by Alina Sbitnev, Jimmy Walker, Mich Manaras, and Vita Galore. Each guest shares how they approach routines, faith, and discipline in their own life. From cold plunges and exercise to Bible study, meditation, and facing problems directly, they explain how these practices give them the energy and focus to get through the day.What we talk about:- Why difficult habits make you more resilient- How morning routines and exercise build energy and confidence- The importance of faith and purpose in daily life- Why avoiding problems only makes them worseIf you have ever felt stuck or struggled with consistency, this episode gives you practical perspectives you can use in your own routine.

Many people carry trauma from childhood, abuse, betrayal, or feeling like they were never meant to exist. For some, it becomes a life sentence. For others, it sparks the fight to heal.In this episode, Dr. James Adkins sits down with Vita Galore to talk about her journey from darkness to light. From childhood abuse and family betrayal to decades of self-healing, Vita shares how she rebuilt her life and why she believes anyone can learn to choose empowerment over victimhood.What we talked about: → How trauma shapes self-worth and identity → The healing practices that helped her dismantle old stories → Why community matters in the process of recovery → The shift from being a victim to living empowered → Daily tools she uses to reframe painful memories and reclaim joyIf you’ve ever felt stuck in old stories or weighed down by the past, Vita’s journey will remind you that healing isn’t just possible, it’s a choice.

Most women are told the same story about weight loss: eat less, move more, and try harder. But for many, especially as hormones shift, that advice doesn’t work—and it leaves them frustrated, exhausted, and blaming themselves.In this episode, Dr. James Adkins sits down with Coach Patricia to uncover what’s really happening inside women’s bodies. From estrogen dominance and cycle training to the truth about hormone replacement therapy (HRT), Patricia explains why weight loss is more of a puzzle than a one-size-fits-all formula.You’ll hear:→ Why “food is medicine” is more than a catchphrase→ The truth about HRT and why so many women are still afraid of it→ How blood work changes the way you should train and eat→ The overlooked role of gut health and liver function in weight loss→ Practical advice women can use right now to feel stronger and more in controlIf you’ve ever felt like you’re “doing everything right” but not seeing results, this conversation will change the way you look at health and fitness.

How do you turn a small Instagram page into a company with over a million followers?In this episode, Parker Smith shares how he started posting ski videos for fun and ended up co-founding Get Send, a media company working with some of the biggest names in action sports. We talk about his journey from college student to entrepreneur, the leap from a stable job to running a business, and what it’s really like to grow an audience across Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.You’ll hear about:→ Building a community in action sports→ Dealing with fear, doubt, and big risks in business→ Why Instagram still beats TikTok for their audience→ The future of AI in action sports media→ Staying healthy after injuries and training to keep doing what you loveWhether you’re into action sports or building your own business, this episode is packed with stories and lessons you can use right away.📍 Website:https://arizonapaintreatmentcenters.com/📍 Website:https://escapespinesurgery.com/

Four stories. Four different kinds of pain. One truth:You can come back from anything, even if it feels like your life is falling apart.In this episode, Dr. James Adkins talks with four people who went through some of the hardest moments anyone can face. They were hurt, ignored, and nearly gave up. But each one found a way to stand back up.–> Carey Pena had a stroke, but doctors said it was just a tumor. She was also told she could never have kids. They were wrong.–> Darlene Santore survived three strokes, lost her mom, and kept leading others through their toughest days.–> Dr. Tricia Pingle looked like she had it all together. But inside, she was hiding grief and burnout. She found healing in a place she didn’t expect: dance.–> Kelsey Zakino was in a wheelchair at 26, taking fentanyl just to move, and still no one believed her pain. She almost gave up. Until one person finally listened.This episode is real, emotional, and honest. If you're going through something hard, this might help you feel less alone.

Dr. John Mason has spent decades saving lives in the ER — until the job nearly broke him.In this unfiltered conversation, we talk about what it really costs to care for others when you never slow down long enough to care for yourself. From burnout and emotional trauma to dirt bike crashes in Africa and near-miss moments in Ukraine, this is what life looks like when your job becomes your identity.We talk about:→ Why empathy makes you a better doctor but a worse friend→ How he finally learned to say “I’m off duty” — even to family→ The emotional weight ER doctors carry but never talk about→ How exercise and adventure became survival tools→ Stories from war zones, orphanages, and losing patients→ What it really means to be healthy when you work in traumaThis episode is for the ones who keep showing up. The ones who carry too much. The ones who don’t get to fall apart — even when everything around them is.If you’ve ever thought, “Why can’t I turn off?” this one’s for you.

What if your bad mood, brain fog, and back pain had less to do with mindset and more to do with what you did the night before?In this episode, Mich Manaras, founder of PEAR, shares how wearables and a simple Vibe Score are helping people track their habits, improve their health, and reconnect with the people they care about.We talk about:→ How alcohol, late nights, and stress show up in your body→ Why tracking your sleep might actually improve your relationships→ The missing link between physical pain and emotional health→ What made Mich walk away from drinking and start building something that actually helpsIf you’ve been feeling off and can't explain why, this episode will help you understand what your body’s been trying to say.

Jimmy Walker is 80 years old. He’s raised over $100 million for charity. Worked with Muhammad Ali, Michael Jordan, and Magic Johnson. And he’s still not done.In this episode, we talk about the real reason he never retired, the heartbreak that changed everything, and why giving back became his life’s mission.You’ll hear:→ The wild story of how Celebrity Fight Night began→ How asking a blind opera singer to meet a silent boxing legend changed both their lives→ The personal loss that led to building sober living homes→ Why he believes most success teaches you nothing→ And what it really means to serve people with dignityThis is one of those episodes you’ll want to play twice. Especially if you care about legacy, impact, and doing work that still matters at any age.

Dr. Tricia Pingle spent years helping people deal with stress and exhaustion. But during that time, she was struggling with it herself.In this episode, we talk about how stress can wear you down slowly, even when everything on the outside looks fine. Tricia shares what helped her feel better—from setting boundaries to finding something she genuinely enjoyed again.We cover:→ Why doing too much for too long backfires→ What helped her recover when nothing else was working→ How movement helped her feel like herself again→ What changed when she stopped trying to do it all→ What balance really looks like day-to-dayIf you’re always tired or feel like you’re running on empty, this one’s worth a listen.

At 25, Darleen Santore had a stroke that changed everything. She was misdiagnosed, told she might die, and told she couldn’t have children.She didn’t quit. She shifted.Now known as Coach Dar, she works with top athletes and business leaders to build mental strength and bounce back when life hits hard.In this episode:→ How she rebuilt her life after three strokes→ The mindset tools she uses with NFL and NBA players→ What helped her stay grounded through loss and setbacks→ The connection between faith, purpose, and resilienceThis is a real conversation about what it takes to keep going—and how to live with intention, even when things don’t go as planned.

At just 10 years old,  Kelsey Zecchino had spinal fusion surgery. By 26, she was stuck in a wheelchair, on fentanyl, and nearly took her own life.Doctors told her the pain was “just in her head.”They gave her meds, then judged her for needing them.But one conversation changed everything.In this episode, Kelsey shares the raw truth about living with chronic pain, misdiagnosis, and being treated like a problem instead of a patient.We talk about:→ What it’s really like to go through fentanyl withdrawal→ The moment she almost gave up—and what saved her→ Her experience with Suboxone and finding a real care plan→ How she went from laying in bed all day… to walking againThis isn’t just about pain.It’s about fighting to be heard.And learning how to take your life back, one step at a time.If you’ve ever felt dismissed by a doctor, struggled with pain, or know someone who has… this one’s for you.

What happens when a spine expert becomes the patient?In this episode, I talk with Dr. Eric Neufang—a chiropractor who went from treating back pain to living through it. After a serious spine injury, two surgeries, and years of recovery, he came back stronger—and more empathetic than ever.Here’s what we talk about:→ What actually helped vs. what failed (including injections, narcotics, and surgery)→ The common myths patients believe about back pain—and the ones doctors still believe too→ Why many people rush to surgery too soon→ How core training and PEMF helped him avoid fusion→ The real-life difference between mechanical pain and nerve pain→ What Dr. Neufang wishes every patient and doctor understood about working togetherThis one’s honest, practical, and packed with insight—especially if you're struggling with back pain or work in spine care.

How do you start a new life with only $400?In this episode, James talks with Alina Sbitnev—a war refugee who escaped to the U.S. and started over from scratch. With just $400 in her pocket, she built a life, learned new skills, and turned struggle into strength.What you’ll hear:→ The moment she realized she had to leave→ What it felt like arriving with no money and no plan→ How she found work and built her career step by step→ The small choices that made a big difference→ Her thoughts on fear, gratitude, and rebuilding→ Advice for anyone going through hard timesThis episode is real, moving, and full of hard-won lessons. Whether you’re chasing a goal, facing change, or just need a reminder of what’s possible—this one’s for you.

How do you go from broke to selling Arizona’s most expensive homes?In this episode, Dr. James Adkins talks with Scott Grigg—one of Arizona’s top luxury realtors. Scott shares how one real estate deal changed everything, what it took to grow in a market with no social media, and how he built strong relationships with high-end clients.They talk about:Why Scott walked away from a “safe” jobWhat real estate looked like before social mediaThe rise of $1600/sqft homes in ArizonaHow outworking others still winsWhat it’s like working with the Altman BrothersAnd real advice for new agents entering luxury real estateScott also opens up about stress, burnout, and why he never wants to be broke again.If you're trying to grow a career, build a business, or just want to hear the real story behind success—this one’s worth a listen.

Carrie Pena went from being a news anchor to launching her own media company—and now she’s creating powerful documentaries inside prisons.In this episode, Dr. James Adkins talks with Carrie about how trauma shapes our lives, how women can step into leadership without losing themselves, and what it really takes to turn pain into purpose.We also dig into her new documentary, Blank Canvas, filmed inside a women’s prison—and the eye-opening stories she uncovered.What we cover:→ How Carrie built a media company with no business background→ The true story of a woman sentenced to 21 years for being in the wrong place→ Why healing trauma starts with listening—not judgment→ The pressure women face in business and media→ How to value your time—and ask to be paid for it→ How cold plunges, meditation, and morning routines keep her grounded→ What happens when you stop trying to be perfect—and start being realThis conversation is honest, practical, and full of lessons. If you're into storytelling, mental health, entrepreneurship—or just want to hear something real—this one’s worth your time.🌐 Website: https://arizonapaintreatmentcenters.com/🌐 Website: https://escapespinesurgery.com/

How do you go from working in a tiny 200 sq ft boutique…To building one of the most trusted clean skincare destinations in the Southwest?In this episode, Dr. James Adkins sits down withMelissa Langberg, founder of Citrine Natural Beauty Bar, to uncover the real story behind clean beauty, greenwashing in the industry, and what it really takes to grow a purpose-driven business—while raising a family.We dive into:✅ The truth about “clean beauty” and hormone-disrupting chemicals✅ How Melissa built her loyal community (before it was trendy)✅ Why most skincare products aren’t as safe as they claim✅ Balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship✅ The emotional toll of postpartum anxiety—and how skincare became her anchor✅ The myth of preservatives and shelf life in natural products✅ How to transition into non-toxic living without overwhelmThis episode isn’t just for skincare fans.It’s for anyone building something that matters—especially if you’ve ever wondered how to stay grounded while scaling a business.

Dr. Paul Lynch couldn’t save his own brother from an overdose.So he built a clinic to save others.In this episode, we dive into Paul’s story—from growing one of Arizona’s biggest pain practices to launching a mission that could save 1 million lives.we talk about:→ how he ranked #1 on google before his clinic even opened → why pain, addiction, and mental health are all connected → the real reason pain patients are still suffering → how suboxone works and why most doctors still don’t talk about it → building a team that actually works—chiropractors, surgeons, therapists, and more → what happened the day his brother overdosed in their bathroom → how losing his brother became the moment everything changedthis one’s about pain, yes—but it’s also about love, redemption, and choosing to do something that actually helps.

When Jason Lanham faced a near-death experience, it didn’t just challenge his body — it changed his soul, his business, and his purpose.In this episode, we unpack Jason’s incredible story: how ulcerative colitis nearly took his life, how it strengthened his faith, and how it shaped him into a stronger entrepreneur and servant of the Lord.Inside this conversation:Growing up different — and how early struggles shaped resilienceFacing near-death (twice) and battling through major surgeryHow illness exposed what truly matters in life and businessFinding God in the middle of chaos and recoveryWhy hardship can be your greatest leadership training groundIf you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to rebuild your life, your faith, and your mission — Jason’s story will hit home.

In this episode, James talks with chef and restaurant owner Mark Tarbell.They go deep into Mark’s life—from washing dishes as a teen to running one of Arizona’s best restaurants.You’ll hear stories about:→ Cooking in Europe and working in famous kitchens→ Living with back pain after a bad car accident→ Why he cooks with real food and avoids seed oils→ How he stays focused with ADHD→ What it takes to run a restaurant for over 25 years→ Why movement, sleep, and family come before businessMark also shares the 4 words he uses to guide his life—and how he built a career without giving up what matters most.

What does it really take to go from broke welder to global CEO?In this episode, I sit down with Aaron Hodson—business strategist, keynote speaker, and former $2B real estate broker—to unpack the raw truths behind building a life that works for you, not one that burns you out.We talk about:→ Why most people fail even with great business ideas→ How Aaron rebuilt his real estate empire after nearly walking away→ What founders get wrong about scaling and structure→ The psychology behind selling (it’s not what you think)→ How to spot burnout before it ruins your momentumThis isn’t just a business episode—it’s a blueprint for freedom, ownership, and fulfillment.If you’re a founder, entrepreneur, or stuck in survival mode—this might be the wake-up call you’ve been waiting for.👇 Hit follow and join us for more real, unfiltered convos on success, mindset, and performance.

Clayton Lindley made a name doing things most people wouldn’t even try.But behind the insane tricks and viral clips were broken bones, mental crashes, and a growing fear he didn’t talk about—until now.In this episode, we get into:→ The hidden cost of chasing adrenaline for a living→ How he knew his brain was no longer working the same→ His go-to strategies for rebuilding focus and clarity→ What fear really is—and how to stop it from running your life→ Life after extreme sports: creativity, calm, and control→ The one mindset shift that helped him move forwardIf you’ve ever felt burned out, foggy, or lost, this episode gives you a new way to think about recovery.

One decision can change everything.For Laura Madden, it was walking into a frame shop with a painting she made just for herself.What happened next? It led to a whole new career.In this episode, Laura shares her journey from health coach to full-time artist—using forgotten materials to create bold, beautiful pieces.You’ll learn:— Why did she leave her “normal” job after 15 years— The creative moment that flipped her mindset— What it’s like building a brand later in life— How she turned self-doubt into a strengthIf you’ve been waiting for the right time to take a chance, this is the episode for you.Stick around until the end to hear Laura’s advice for artists just starting out.If you’ve ever felt like it’s too late to begin again, this episode might flip the switch.

What happens when the healthcare system stops working—for both the patient and the doctor?Dr. Ken Ota quit the insurance grind and now runs a small, personal practice. Dr. Azmi Nasser works in the traditional system but adds a private care touch when patients need more.In this episode, we talk about:🔹 Why more people are paying out-of-pocket to skip the wait🔹 How being a doctor has changed—and why it’s not always good🔹 What it really looks like when you give patients your cell number🔹 How jiu-jitsu helps them manage stress and avoid burnout🔹 The simple routines they use to stay grounded as doctors and dadsWe also get into their backstories—punk rock bands, immigrant parents, and how they found meaning in medicine.If you’ve ever felt rushed at the doctor’s office or wondered what better care could look like, this one’s worth your time.Hit play, and if you like talks that feel real and unfiltered, subscribe for more.

What happens when your entire identity is ripped away in an instant?Scotty Scheller was on the fast track to a pro hockey career—until a brutal injury shattered his future overnight. What followed was years of unexplained pain, misdiagnosis, and a battle with depression that nearly cost him everything.But Scottie didn’t just survive—he rebuilt his life from scratch.In this episode, we talk about:The injury that changed everything—and how he found purpose in the aftermathThe dark side of misdiagnosis & why doctors kept failing himHow hitting rock bottom led him to faith, personal growth, and a new pathThe surprising secret to resilience when everything feels lostWhy success isn’t about having a plan—but adapting when life forces a new oneIf you've ever felt lost, like you're starting over with nothing—this conversation is for you.Hit play, take notes, and if this episode moves you, tap subscribe for more unfiltered conversations on resilience, mindset, and rebuilding from zero.

Most people dream of adventure. Anne Lorimer actually lives it.At 85, she climbed Mount Kilimanjaro. At 89, she did it again—with broken ribs.Anne isn’t a professional climber. She didn’t grow up wealthy or privileged. She’s faced poverty, homelessness, and obstacles most people wouldn’t recover from.But she never quit.In this episode, Anne shares:How she went from struggling to survive to setting world recordsWhat kept her moving forward—even in the hardest timesWhy she believes staying active is the key to a long, happy lifeHer mission to help disadvantaged kids break the cycle of povertyHer next adventure—because at 95, she’s still goingIf you’ve ever thought you were too old or too late to chase a big dream, this episode will change you!

Most people think trauma is just something that happened in the past. A bad memory. Something you "move on" from.But what if it’s not in your head? What if it’s sitting in your nervous system, shaping how you think, how you react, even how your body feels?That’s what we’re talking about today. Chelsey Valeri has spent years helping people untangle the effects of deep trauma—the kind that doesn’t just go away with time.We dive into:Why your body might be stuck in fight-or-flight mode (and how to break the cycle)The reason some people never heal—and what they’re missingWhy therapy alone isn’t enough for deep traumaThe healthcare system’s blind spots when it comes to pain and mental healthThis episode isn’t just about trauma—it’s about finally understanding what’s really happening inside you.

Growing up in a modest Kansas trailer in 1968, I faced poverty, rejection, and a past I wasn’t proud of. From nearly being expelled from a high-society fraternity to hustling guerrilla marketing in grocery stores and bowling alleys, I learned early on that every setback was a setup for a comeback. A high school football coach’s words lit a spark, and I began a relentless pursuit to turn my troubled beginnings into a future defined by purpose.But the journey wasn’t smooth—financial crises, academic hurdles, and even a debilitating personal crisis during COVID nearly broke me. With faith, grit, and an unwavering determination to prove that your past doesn’t define you, I built one of the nation’s first multidisciplinary pain practices. My story is a testament to the power of resilience and the belief that no matter how low you start, you can rise to change the game.Contact Dr. James Adkins:Website: Arizona Pain Treatment CentersWebsite: Endoscopic Spine Treatment in Phoenix - Escape Spine SurgeryPhone Number: 602-265-8800Instagram: @drjamesadkinsInstagram: @azptcInstagram: @escapespinesurgeryYouTube: @Dr.JamesAdkins

Chrissy Sayare never planned to start a luxury consignment empire—until one day, 11 unexpected boxes showed up at her door, packed with Chanel, Gucci, and Valentino. That moment changed everything. With zero retail experience, she took a risk, built a thriving business, and went on to discover a $300,000 Hermes collection that needed MOVERS.But behind the success is a story of resilience, identity, and breaking barriers. Chrissy opens up about growing up as the daughter of Greek immigrants, hiding a scoliosis brace as a teenager, and how she still battles imposter syndrome despite running a multi-million dollar company. She shares insider secrets on authenticating designer bags, the hardest lessons she’s learned in business, and why staying comfortable is the biggest risk of all. If you love fashion, entrepreneurship, and a story about turning unexpected moments into massive success, this episode is for you!Contact Dr. James Adkins:Website: Arizona Pain Treatment CentersWebsite: Endoscopic Spine Treatment in Phoenix - Escape Spine SurgeryPhone Number: 602-265-8800Instagram: @drjamesadkinsInstagram: @azptcInstagram: @escapespinesurgeryYouTube: @Dr.JamesAdkins

What if everything you thought was the end was actually just the beginning? Pastor David Friend has been through it all—fighting in the Vietnam War, battling PTSD, surviving cancer linked to Agent Orange, and being told multiple times that he had only months to live. But instead of giving in, he chose faith over fear—and his life became a testimony to resilience, healing, and miracles.In this gripping episode of Bending Over Backwards, Dr. James Adkins sits down with Pastor Friend to uncover the raw truth about his journey—from the jungles of Vietnam to the pulpit, where he now helps others overcome their own battles. He reveals the mindset shift that helped him defy medical odds, the power of prayer in the darkest moments, and how giving to others became the key to his own strength. This is not just another survival story—it’s proof that purpose, faith, and perseverance can rewrite any ending.Contact Dr. James Adkins:Website: Arizona Pain Treatment CentersWebsite: Endoscopic Spine Treatment in Phoenix - Escape Spine SurgeryPhone Number: 602-265-8800Instagram: @drjamesadkinsInstagram: @azptcInstagram: @escapespinesurgeryYouTube: @Dr.JamesAdkins

From surviving the streets of South Side Chicago to mentoring future NBA stars and changing lives around the world, Coach John Fleming is the definition of resilience and leadership. In this gripping episode of Bending Over Backwards with Dr. James Adkins, Coach Fleming dives into his tough-love coaching philosophy, the role of faith in overcoming adversity, and the life-changing power of mentorship.Discover how he uses basketball as a platform to teach young men the skills they need to succeed on and off the court. Hear firsthand accounts of his transformative work in Africa, where he combined ministry, humanitarian efforts, and community building to make an indelible impact. If you’re ready to learn the truth about discipline, preparation, and breaking through life’s toughest challenges, this episode is a must-listen.Contact Dr. James Adkins:Website: Arizona Pain Treatment CentersWebsite: Endoscopic Spine Treatment in Phoenix - Escape Spine SurgeryPhone Number: 602-265-8800Instagram: @drjamesadkinsInstagram: @azptcInstagram: @escapespinesurgeryYouTube: @Dr.JamesAdkins

What’s really happening behind the scenes with your health insurance? On this week’s episode of Bending Over Backwards, host James Adkins exposes the shocking tactics used by UnitedHealthcare to deny medically necessary care. From AI tools with error rates as high as 90% to clawback payments that leave doctors and patients in the lurch, we’re diving deep into the troubling intersection of technology and humanity in healthcare.Discover why spine care patients are suing, how delays in authorizations lead to life-altering complications, and why many feel stuck in a broken system that favors profits over people. Packed with eye-opening personal stories and actionable advice, this episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating the frustrating world of insurance claims. Tune in now and find out how to fight for your health—and your rights!Contact Dr. James Adkins:Website: Arizona Pain Treatment CentersWebsite: Endoscopic Spine Treatment in Phoenix - Escape Spine SurgeryPhone Number: 602-265-8800Instagram: @drjamesadkinsInstagram: @azptcInstagram: @escapespinesurgeryYouTube: @Dr.JamesAdkins

What if every rejection brought you closer to your biggest breakthrough? On this episode of Bending Over Backwards, Dr. James Adkins sits down with Kansas City Chiefs Hall of Famer Nick Lowry to uncover the lessons behind his legendary career and life of service. From being cut by eight NFL teams to becoming a three-time Pro Bowler, Nick shares his strategies for building mental toughness, embracing persistence, and staying focused under pressure—even when 80,000 fans (and millions on TV) are watching.But this conversation goes beyond football. Listeners will learn how to transform personal challenges into opportunities for growth, use their unique talents to create lasting impact, and approach leadership with empathy and purpose. Whether you’re looking for inspiration to overcome obstacles or practical advice for making a difference, this episode delivers. Tune in for a game plan that will leave you ready to tackle your own life’s biggest goals.Contact Dr. James Adkins:Website: Arizona Pain Treatment CentersWebsite: Endoscopic Spine Treatment in Phoenix - Escape Spine SurgeryPhone Number: 602-265-8800Instagram: @drjamesadkinsInstagram: @azptcInstagram: @escapespinesurgeryYouTube: @Dr.JamesAdkins

What happens when a seemingly small decision transforms into a life-altering health battle? In this powerful episode of Bending Over Backwards, Dr. James Adkins welcomes his wife, Emanuelle Adkins, for a raw and intimate conversation. Emanuelle shares her journey of navigating years of unexplained illness, uncovering the truth about breast implant illness, and reclaiming her health through courage and faith. From the pivotal moment of discovery to the life-changing decision of explant surgery, Emanuelle’s story is a testament to resilience and the importance of listening to your body.But the conversation doesn’t stop there. Emanuelle brings her unique perspective as a Swiss-born, French-raised woman, sharing the cultural values that shaped her parenting philosophy, the sacred importance of family meals, and her timeless approach to fashion and beauty. With humor, honesty, and wisdom, Emanuelle offers insights into living with intention, embracing simplicity, and finding grace in life’s challenges. Tune in for a deeply personal and inspiring episode that will leave you reflecting on health, family, and the power of self-discovery.Contact Dr. James Adkins:Website: Arizona Pain Treatment CentersWebsite: Endoscopic Spine Treatment in Phoenix - Escape Spine SurgeryPhone Number: 602-265-8800Instagram: @drjamesadkinsInstagram: @azptcInstagram: @escapespinesurgeryYouTube: @Dr.JamesAdkins

What drives someone to turn a fifth-grade fascination with smoker’s lungs into a pioneering career in pain management? In this jam-packed episode of Bending Over Backwards with James Adkins, Dr. Azmi Nasser joins his partner and longtime friend, Dr. James Adkins, to reflect on his journey, from med school surprises to the latest advancements in spine care.Hear about the evolution of ultra-minimally invasive procedures, the fine line between corticosteroid benefits and risks, and why work-life balance isn’t just a buzzword—it’s survival. Along the way, Dr. Nasser shares hilarious and heartfelt moments, like an OR anesthesiologist face-planting mid-surgery and a broken rib that led to a life-saving cancer diagnosis. With candid insights on family, cultural influences, and the importance of humility in medicine, this episode is a masterclass in breaking barriers, finding balance, and staying human through it all.Contact Dr. James Adkins:Website: Arizona Pain Treatment CentersWebsite: Endoscopic Spine Treatment in Phoenix - Escape Spine SurgeryPhone Number: 602-265-8800Instagram: @drjamesadkinsInstagram: @azptcInstagram: @escapespinesurgeryYouTube: @Dr.JamesAdkins

What happens when a spine doctor becomes the patient? In this candid and captivating episode of Bending Over Backwards with Dr. James Adkins, we take you on a two-decade journey through the highs and lows of battling a herniated disc, chronic pain, and the lessons learned along the way. Dr. Adkins shares his personal story of overcoming debilitating nerve pain, navigating outdated treatments, and discovering cutting-edge solutions like PRP therapy and bone marrow injections.But the real game-changer? Learning to take charge of his own recovery outside the doctor's office. From core-strengthening breakthroughs to busting myths about inflammation and gut health, this episode is packed with insights that will transform the way you think about healing. Whether you’re a patient, a healthcare professional, or just curious about the future of medicine, this episode will inspire you to stand taller, live healthier, and embrace new challenges.Tune in to discover how you can break through barriers, push past pain, and take your health into your own hands! Contact Dr. James Adkins:Website: Arizona Pain Treatment CentersWebsite: Endoscopic Spine Treatment in Phoenix - Escape Spine SurgeryPhone Number: 602-265-8800Instagram: @drjamesadkinsInstagram: @azptcInstagram: @escapespinesurgeryYouTube: @Dr.JamesAdkins

Get ready for a heart-pounding adventure as Bending Over Backwards with Dr. James Adkins welcomes extreme sports icon and entrepreneur Clayton Lindley! From freestyle scooter stunts on mega ramps to skydiving, base jumping, and scaling cliffs, Clayton has lived a life most only dream (or fear) of.In this episode, Clayton reveals his journey from a small-town Texas kid to a globe-trotting athlete, the mental focus it takes to defy gravity, and how he balances the chaos of extreme sports with the calm of golf, yoga, and a thriving media company.Want to know what it’s like to hit a six-story ramp, fly through the air, or climb to new heights—literally and figuratively? Click play and join the adrenaline rush!Contact Dr. James Adkins:Website: Arizona Pain Treatment CentersWebsite: Endoscopic Spine Treatment in Phoenix - Escape Spine SurgeryPhone Number: 602-265-8800Instagram: @drjamesadkinsInstagram: @azptcInstagram: @escapespinesurgeryYouTube: @Dr.JamesAdkins

When a viral scandal could have ended her career, Melissa Rein Lively turned it into a defining moment. In this riveting episode, the PR visionary takes us inside her journey of redemption, resilience, and reinvention. With unflinching honesty, Melissa reveals how she navigated the fallout of public scrutiny, rebuilt her reputation, and used her expertise to turn the media narrative in her favor. Her story isn’t just about survival—it’s a masterclass in thriving through adversity.Melissa dives deep into the strategies behind her success, from leveraging storytelling to reclaim her personal brand to using social media as a powerful tool for connection and impact. She shares actionable insights on mastering PR in a digital-first world, handling crises with confidence, and finding clarity through mindfulness and wellness practices. Whether you’re building a brand, managing a reputation, or simply looking for a blueprint to transform challenges into opportunities, this episode is packed with tools, inspiration, and game-changing advice.Contact Dr. James Adkins:Website: Arizona Pain Treatment CentersWebsite: Endoscopic Spine Treatment in Phoenix - Escape Spine SurgeryPhone Number: 602-265-8800Instagram: @drjamesadkinsInstagram: @azptcInstagram: @escapespinesurgeryYouTube: @Dr.JamesAdkins

Is spine care stuck in the past, or are we rewriting the rules? In this engaging episode, Dr. Rafath Baig, Dr. Azmi Nasser, and Dr. Adkins unpack the latest breakthroughs in endoscopic spine surgery, explore the transformative power of regenerative medicine, and tackle the big question: How do we provide care that’s truly different? From minimizing invasiveness to empowering patient recovery, this conversation highlights how modern spine care is evolving to meet today’s challenges. Tune in for a fresh perspective on health, healing, and the future of back pain solutions!Contact Dr. James Adkins:Website: Arizona Pain Treatment CentersWebsite: Endoscopic Spine Treatment in Phoenix - Escape Spine SurgeryPhone Number: 602-265-8800Instagram: @drjamesadkinsInstagram: @azptcInstagram: @escapespinesurgeryYouTube: @Dr.JamesAdkins

In this debut episode, host James Adkins sits down with Dr. Nasser, an interventional spine specialist with a fascinating personal story. From surviving a dive roll over a car to battling debilitating nerve pain, Dr. Nasser shares how his own injuries shaped his approach to diagnosing and treating spine conditions.Discover the truth about nerve pain, why it’s often misdiagnosed, and how innovative treatments like platelet-rich plasma (PRP) are revolutionizing recovery. With candid insights, real-life patient stories, and practical advice, James and Dr. Nasser explore the delicate balance between science, compassion, and the art of healing. Whether you’re dealing with pain or simply curious about what goes on behind the scenes in spine medicine, this episode is a must-listen!Contact Dr. James Adkins:Website: Arizona Pain Treatment CentersWebsite: Endoscopic Spine Treatment in Phoenix - Escape Spine SurgeryPhone Number: 602-265-8800Instagram: @drjamesadkinsInstagram: @azptc Instagram: @escapespinesurgery YouTube: @Dr.JamesAdkins