

I'm Fine
Jean Campbell
Hosted by supermodel and chronic pain advocate Jean Campbell, I'm Fine aims to redefine the narrative of pain in a culture where "I'm fine" often masks the reality of living with pain. By sharing personal stories, mind-body techniques, and practical solutions, the podcast seeks to help listeners move beyond pain and discover possibilities, positivity, and productivity.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Sep 27, 2024 • 37min
Actress, Model, and Chronic Illness Activist Nicole Pedra on Navigating Life with MS and Embracing Her Inner Strength
Send us a message with any of your thoughts, questions and feedback In this deeply moving and inspiring episode, Jean welcomes Nicole Pedra, a model, actress, influencer, and motivational speaker who was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) at the tender age of 10. Nicole shares her remarkable journey through childhood, adolescence, and adulthood with MS, offering an honest look into the challenges of navigating life with a chronic illness.While MS is typically diagnosed in adults, it is exceedingly rare in children. Only about 3-5% of MS cases are diagnosed before the age of 16, making Nicole’s early diagnosis at just 10 years old a particularly uncommon and challenging journey. Pediatric MS differs in its progression from adult MS, often marked by more frequent relapses and more intense flare-ups. However, the brain’s plasticity in children allows for better compensation and recovery from nerve damage, which can make their long-term outcomes more hopeful.Nicole recounts her early experiences with pediatric MS, from the intense physical symptoms to the emotional struggles of feeling isolated and misunderstood. Despite these hardships, she found strength in her resilience, which has guided her through the ups and downs of managing her health, relationships, and career.Together, Nicole and Jean explore topics such as:The unique challenges of pediatric MS versus adult MS.How Nicole's early symptoms were misdiagnosed and her subsequent journey to find answers.The importance of finding community and support, even if it takes time. The emotional toll of keeping her diagnosis secret and how it affected her relationships.Her decision to embrace her condition publicly, becoming a voice for others living with chronic illness.The power of resilience and how adversity has shaped Nicole into the empowered woman she is today.Practical strategies Nicole uses to manage her health, balance her life, and keep a positive mindset.----Host: Jean CampbellGuest: Nicole PedraExecutive Producer: Jean CampbellProducer: Wicked Child Studio, Hailey Rovner Malach Composer: Eduardo Vella

Sep 19, 2024 • 34min
Supermodel, actress and activist Adwoa Aboah on her journey, mental health, addiction and finding community and hope in the darkest moments
Send us a message with any of your thoughts, questions and feedback In this raw and heartfelt conversation, Jean sits down with her close friend, supermodel, actress and founder of Gurls Talk, Adwoa Aboah. Together, they dive deep into the complexities of pain – both visible and invisible. Adwoa opens up about her personal struggles with mental health and addiction, sharing how pain manifested in her life from a young age, how it felt isolating, and the powerful journey to learning how to cope.Adwoa discusses the importance of acknowledging pain, the role shame plays in mental health, and how she ultimately found solace in community and self-awareness. They explore the challenges of being vulnerable, the healing power of connection, and the lessons learned from pain, including how it can shape resilience and compassion.This episode is an intimate look at overcoming internal battles, growing from dark places, and the importance of finding hope, even in the most difficult moments. Whether you're facing your own struggles or supporting someone who is, Adwoa's insights offer a powerful reminder that healing is possible and you're never alone in your journey.Key Topics:Adwoa’s personal story of pain, boarding school, and feeling isolated.The role of shame in mental health and how it affects healing.How finding community and speaking out can be transformative.Overcoming addiction and embracing sobriety.How to hold on to hope and redefine what healing looks like.Gurls Talk is a community-led non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the mental health and wellbeing of adolescent girls and young women*. Following Adwoa Aboah’s personal experience with mental health, Gurls Talk was formed with the goal of creating safe spaces – both on and offline – where gurls can access mental health resources, share their experiences and support each other so they never feel alone or have to reach a breaking point.You can follow Adwoa on Instagram @adwoaaboah You can learn more about Gurls Talk by heading to www.gurlstalk.com ---Host: Jean CampbellGuest: Adwoa AboahExecutive Producer: Jean CampbellProducer: Wicked Child Studio, Hailey Rovner MalachComposer: Eduardo Vella

Sep 13, 2024 • 1h 7min
Supermodel and Actress Abbey Lee on Her 20-Year Road to an Endometriosis Diagnosis, Chronic Pain, and the Power of Resilience
Send us a message with any of your thoughts, questions and feedback In this episode, Jean welcomes supermodel and actress Abbey Lee to discuss her 20-year journey with endometriosis, a chronic condition affecting over 10% of women of reproductive age worldwide—approximately 190 million. Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus, causing severe pain, inflammation, and sometimes infertility. Abbey shares her personal experiences, from her first symptoms in childhood to enduring years of misdiagnoses before receiving a proper diagnosis following surgery. The conversation dives deep into the challenges of managing chronic pain, its impact on mental health, and the daily struggle of living with this condition. Abbey also sheds light on the misconceptions within the medical community and emphasizes the importance of resilience, self-care, and a strong support system. She offers practical advice, sharing coping mechanisms like meditation, diet, and the role of a supportive partner, giving listeners hope and guidance in navigating similar experiences.Abbey Lee is an Australian supermodel and actress who first gained global recognition for her work in high-fashion campaigns and runway shows for top designers like Gucci, Versace, and Alexander McQueen. Known for her striking look and versatility, she became a fixture in the modeling world, gracing the covers of international editions of Vogue and Numéro. Abbey successfully transitioned into acting, starring in major films such as Mad Max: Fury Road, The Neon Demon, and Lovecraft Country.You can follow Abbey on Instagram at @abbeylee 00:00 Welcome and Introduction00:45 Abby's Journey with Endometriosis02:29 Defining Endometriosis03:26 Early Symptoms and Misconceptions06:11 Living with Chronic Pain10:52 Navigating Career and Pain16:00 Emotional and Mental Impact20:11 Seeking Help and Finding Relief23:58 Mind-Body Connection29:13 Meditation and Coping Strategies31:39 Exploring Meditation Techniques33:22 The Role of a Supportive Partner36:43 Navigating Intimacy and Pain40:37 The Journey to Diagnosis47:08 Managing Endometriosis Through Lifestyle Changes58:08 Finding Strength and Resilience01:00:04 Words of Wisdom and Final Thoughts---Host: Jean CampbellGuest: Abbey Lee Executive Producer: Jean Campbell Studio: Podcast House Producer: Wicked Child Studio, Hailey Rovner Malach Composer: Edoardo Vella

Sep 6, 2024 • 39min
Autoimmune wellness activist Chef Laura Mason on overcoming Hashimoto's and Rheumatoid Arthritis through diet, bee venom, and cold water therapy
Send us a message with any of your thoughts, questions and feedback Jean welcomes Laura Mason, an autoimmune wellness blogger, chef, and the creator of Love Chef Laura. Laura shares her inspiring journey of healing from Hashimoto's and Rheumatoid Arthritis, her love for culinary arts, and the transformative therapies that have helped her manage chronic pain and transform her life. Highlights: Introduction to Laura MasonLife-changing Diagnosis: Laura's journey through being diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis while raising young children.Creating a Support Network: The vital role of family and online communities in Laura's healing journey.Cold Water Immersion Therapy: Laura's powerful experience with cold water immersion therapy and the creation of Happy Winter Swim Club.Bee Venom Therapy: Detailed insights into bee venom therapy, its process, and how it has significantly reduced Laura's pain.Diet and Wellness: Transitioning to a paleo and carnivore-based diet, and the impact of dietary changes on her autoimmune symptoms.Personal Struggles and Triumphs: Overcoming the mental, emotional, and physical challenges of living with autoimmune diseases.Hope for Others: Laura's heartfelt advice for anyone dealing with chronic pain: You are not alone and there is hope for healing.Join us for this powerful conversation and discover the resilience and strength it takes to transform one's life in the face of adversity. Make sure to follow Laura Mason at her blog Love Chef Laura and on social media for more on her journey and wellness tips.You can follow Laura at https://www.instagram.com/lovecheflaura/--- Host: Jean CampbellGuest: Laura Mason Executive Producer: Jean CampbellProducer: Wicked Child Studio, Hailey Rovner Malach Composer: Edoardo Vella

Aug 29, 2024 • 25min
Long COVID advocate Lilly Downs on finding joy amid uncertainty, celebrating the nurses who care, and redefining life beyond illness
Send us a message with any of your thoughts, questions and feedback Long COVID has affected an estimated 65 million people worldwide, leaving many to navigate life with ongoing symptoms.Long COVID, a condition affecting an estimated 65 million people worldwide, can bring a wide range of lingering symptoms such as fatigue, brain fog, chronic pain, and respiratory issues, often lasting for months or even years.In this heartfelt episode, Jean speaks with Lilly Downs, an advocate for long COVID recovery, who shares her personal journey through illness, resilience, and finding joy amidst adversity. Lilly discusses her experiences with long COVID, autoimmune disorders, and chronic pain, and how these challenges have reshaped her view on life, happiness, and priorities.a little about Lilly from Lilly: Hi! I’m Lilly, I’m 20 years old & have been battling my own body since getting covid in 2020. My GI tract became paralyzed, my immune system went haywire & I have spent over 9 months fighting for my life in the hospital. I started making TikToks to document my journey & destigmatize life with chronic illness, feeding tubes & a central line. You can follow Lilly on TikTok @lillydowns 01:00 - Lilly's Initial COVID Diagnosis and living with chronic pain and multiple diagnoses 07:00 - Coping with pain from a young age 14:00 - Accepting the reality of your own mortality and shifting your life priorities 20:00 - Finding support and building community and the integral role of nurses in her recovery 23:00 - Self-care through creative outlets and finding independence----Host : Jean CampbellGuest: Lilly DownsExecutive Producer: Jean CampbellProducer: Wicked Child Studio, Hailey Rovner Malach Composer: Edoardo Vella

Aug 29, 2024 • 29min
Famed photographer Jamie Hawkesworth discusses his experience with chronic back pain, in light of his remarkable career and how he has come to find relief
Send us a message with any of your thoughts, questions and feedback In this compelling episode, Jean Campbell and Edward Burgess Wells sit down with world-class photographer Jamie Hawkesworth. Jamie shares his remarkable journey from amateur photographer to photographing the covers of VOGUE, diving deeply into his decade-long struggle with chronic back pain and how it has influenced his work and life. This episode explores the intersection of creativity and pain, resilience in the face of a seemingly insurmountable challenge, and the transformative power of discipline and acceptance.Hawkesworth was born in Ipswich, Suffolk in 1987. Initially introduced to photography as part of his forensic science degree, he then switched to study the medium, graduating from the University of Lancashire in 2009 with a BA in Photography. Hawkesworth’s Preston Bus Station was published in 2017; On Keeping a Notebook in 2019; and The British Isles in 2021. In 2018 he received the Award for Editorial, Advertising and Fashion Photography from the Royal Photographic Society. He has worked on editorial campaigns, catalogues and commissions for Alexander McQueen, J.W.Anderson and Loewe, amongst many others. His documentary works have been exhibited in London, Amsterdam and New York. His work is held in the permanent collections of the Victoria & Albert Museum, London and Huis Marseille, Amsterdam.Hawkesworth lives and works in London. - Current exhibition https://huxleyparlour.com00:00 - Introduction to Jamie Hawkesworth02:00 - Jamie and Jean's First Meeting6:08 - Photographing Through Pain14:49 - Turning Point and Recovery25:34 - Physiotherapy and Managing Pain28:32 - Current Routine and Final Reflections--- Host: Jean CampbellCo-host: Ed Burgess-Wells Guest: Jamie Hawkesworth Executive Producer: Jean CampbellProducer: Wicked Child Studio, Hailey Rovner MalachComposer: Edoardo Vella

Aug 22, 2024 • 28min
Julia Sarr-Jamois on OCD, anxiety & intrusive thoughts, finding peace, strength and embracing life's uncertainty
Send us a message with any of your thoughts, questions and feedback In this episode, influential stylist, fashion director, and one of Jean's most dear friends, Julia Sarr-Jamois, shares her candid experience with pain, anxiety, and OCD, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.Julia recounts how the sudden changes in her life, including isolation and uncertainty, triggered anxiety and OCD symptoms, leading to severe panic attacks. OCD, or Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, affects approximately 1-2% of the global population, with millions more experiencing intrusive thoughts and anxiety. These conditions often involve persistent, unwanted thoughts and repetitive behaviors aimed at reducing distress.She discusses the impact on her personal and professional life and the therapeutic approaches that helped her cope, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and regular therapy sessions. Julia emphasizes the importance of accepting oneself, practical exercises to manage anxiety, and viewing challenges as opportunities for growth.00:00 Welcome and Introduction01:12 Julia's Journey with Pain and OCD02:01 Coping During COVID-1903:10 Experiencing Anxiety and Panic Attacks03:42 Understanding and Managing OCD06:18 Therapy and Finding Solutions15:53 Self-Help Strategies and Empowerment19:59 Reflections and Final ThoughtsJulia Sarr-Jamois is one of the most influential names in fashion today. As both the youngest and first black Fashion Director in Vogue’s history, Julia is a powerful driving force for change within the industry. She was a founding member of the Mentoring Matters and Rubric mentoring initiatives and has consistently championed diversity throughout her prolific career. In 2018, Julia was invited to Nigeria to join the panel of the prestigious Fashion Weekend as part of their Promoting Enterprise Festival, championing emerging talent and education.Born to a French mother and Senegalese father, Julia was raised in South London, enjoying success as a model before joining the editorial team at i-D when she was 19. Julia’s exceptional talent for fashion is reflected through her dynamic editorial storytelling and social media presence. Julia’s eclectic style and eccentric elegance makes her one of the most photographed fashion directors, ruling the best dressed lists around the world.With over 17 years experience in the industry Julia has honed a refined but joyful aesthetic, distinguished by her signature use of bold colour as well as her effortless mixing of streetwear and high fashion aesthetics.Julia’s work has been featured in leading style titles including T Magazine, Self Service, M Le Monde, Double and More Or Less. Her work spans print and design, collaborating with photographers including Tyrone Lebon, Alasdair McLellan, Tyler Mitchell, Harley Weir, Zoë Ghertner and Nadine Ijewere. Julia has consulted for brands including Homer, Dolce & Gabbana, Hermès, Chanel, and Zara.You can follow Julia on Instagram @sarrjamois You can learn more about Julia's creative agency, Best Represents, by heading to https://bestrepresents.com/---Host: Jean CampbellGuest: Julia Sarr-Jamois Executive Producer: Jean CampbellProducer: Wicked Child Studio, Hailey Rovner Malach Editor: Edoardo Vella

Aug 16, 2024 • 38min
Farideh Banafshei Counsellor, MBACP on the disruptive nature of perfectionism & pressure today
Send us a message with any of your thoughts, questions and feedback In this episode, Jean is joined by Farideh Banafshei, a counseling psychologist nearing the completion of her doctorate. They discuss Farideh's journey from working in finance to transitioning into psychology, driven by her own experiences of imposter syndrome and stress in high-pressure environments. Farideh highlights the pressures women face in professional settings, the impact of perfectionism, and the ways society's unrealistic expectations can lead to mental health issues. She shares personal anecdotes about her struggle with severe health issues that led her to reassess her life and healing journey. The conversation also explores the role of cultural dynamics in disordered eating and the importance of internal reflection for genuine self-healing. Farideh emphasizes that true strength comes from within and that therapeutic work helps individuals uncover their innate resilience.00:00 Introduction to Farideh Banafshei00:58 Farideh's Career Journey02:39 Transition to Psychology02:50 Understanding Affective Disorders04:22 Challenges in High-Pressure Environments08:05 Personal Struggles and COVID Impact11:26 The Breaking Point and Recovery15:27 Perfectionism and Self-Discovery22:26 Disordered Eating and Cultural Perspectives31:36 Finding Support and Healing34:39 Final Thoughts and AdviceYou can learn more about the J. Flowers Health Institute by heading to their website: https://jflowershealth.com/--- Host: Jean CampbellGuest: Farideh Banafshei Counsellor, MBACPExecutive Producer: Jean CampbellProducer: Wicked Child Studio, Hailey Rovner MalachComposer: Edoardo Vella

Aug 8, 2024 • 35min
Tony Kosoko on male pelvic pain, erectile dysfunction, emotional isolation, and the mental health risks of suffering in silence
Send us a message with any of your thoughts, questions and feedback Approximately 1 in 7 men suffer from male pelvic pain, a condition often endured in silence due to societal stigma and pressure. Premature ejaculation affects about 30% of men at some point in their lives, while other pelvic health issues, such as chronic prostatitis and pelvic floor dysfunction, are also prevalent.Today, Jean and Edward chat with Tony Kosoko, a leading physical therapist in pelvic health, who specializes in addressing these issues and advocates for breaking the silence to improve men's overall well-being. Beyond exploring male pelvic pain, this discussion delves into men's mental health, erectile dysfunction, the damaging effects of unrealistic pornography, viagra and highlights the critical need for societal support in encouraging men to openly express and discuss what’s going on for them.Tony Kosoko is a specialist musculoskeletal physiotherapist with an extensive background in men's health, sports injuries, clinical Pilates, and strength and conditioning. He holds a BSc (Hons) in Physiotherapy, a PgCert in Sports, and is a member of the MMACP, MCSP, and is HCPC registered.Tony initially trained as a dancer at The Northern Ballet School and performed professionally in Europe and Japan before retiring in 1991. He then retrained as a physiotherapist, graduating from the 4-year honors program at King's College, London in 1995.Tony worked in the NHS at two of London’s leading teaching hospitals before transitioning to private practice in 2000. He spent three years working with leading dance companies, including Rambert Dance and Merce Cunningham Dance companies, before founding The Practice, a multidisciplinary clinic based in Notting Hill, in 2003.Tony is dedicated to improving men's health by addressing issues such as male pelvic pain, premature ejaculation, and other pelvic health concerns, helping men lead healthier, more fulfilling lives from a bio psychosocial perspective.You can learn more about Tony and The Practice Centre by heading to https://thepracticecentre.co.uk/--- Host: Jean CampbellCo-Host: Ed Burgess-WellsGuest: Tony KosokoExecutive Producer: Jean CampbellProducer: Wicked Child Studio, Hailey Rovner MalachComposer: Edoardo Vella

Aug 1, 2024 • 37min
Rosemary Ferguson on the impact of nutrition for pain management, IBS & her method
Send us a message with any of your thoughts, questions and feedback Today, Jean is joined by Rosemary Ferguson, a 90s icon turned nutritionist, to explore the profound impact of nutrition on pain management. Rosemary shares her journey from the runway to becoming a nutrition expert, driven by her passion for holistic health. Together, they delve into the importance of gut health, discussing how our diet can influence overall well-being and alleviate chronic pain.They also tackle the effects of diet culture, including its influence on both female and male body image, and the impact of the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems on our digestive health. Rosemary will explain how these systems play a crucial role in conditions like IBS and how addressing them can improve overall health.Rosemary Ferguson is a certified functional medicine practitioner and nutritional therapist with an MSc in Advanced Nutrition. Her unique perspective on health stems from her diverse background in both modeling and nutrition. Starting her modeling career at 17, Rosemary became a prominent figure with campaigns for Miu Miu, Prada, and Armani, and walked the runway for Chanel, Versace, Galliano, and McQueen. Though she has transitioned to health and nutrition, she still makes occasional appearances, including a recent return to the runway for Miu Miu’s SS2024 collection and a cover story for Elle UK’s December 2023 edition.In 2008, Rosemary pursued her passion for nutrition at The College of Naturopathic Medicine, later advancing her studies in functional medicine and completing her MSc in Advanced Nutrition, Research, and Practice. She now runs a busy online clinic, helping clients achieve their health goals. Rosemary also writes for Vogue and Beauty Papers and authored "Juice," published in April 2015, which features 100 juice recipes for modern wellness. She is currently working on new book projects.For more information, visit her website at roseferguson.com and follow her on Instagram @rosemaryferguson_.---Host: Jean Campbell Executive Producer: Jean CampbellProducer: Wicked Child Studio, Hailey Rovner MalachComposer: Edoardo Vella


