Beyond The Pain

Leigh Brandon
undefined
Aug 25, 2025 • 1h 59min

Pain Isn’t the Problem—It’s the Signal: Why I Went All-In on Chronic Pain

In this very first episode of Beyond The Pain, I flip the script and share my story through the lens of a powerful conversation with Stretch Rainer on his Midlife Mavericks podcast. Together, we explore the real reason I’ve rebranded the podcast and why chronic pain deserves to take centre stage.I open up about my personal journey from partying in Ibiza to becoming a leading voice in holistic pain recovery, and how my own brush with debilitating pain reshaped my identity—and my life's mission. We dig into why so many people are stuck in pain despite seeing physios, chiropractors, or even having surgery, and how real healing requires going far deeper.We explore:The emotional toll of losing your identity to painWhy traditional approaches often miss the markHow nutrition, biomechanics, and nervous system regulation all play a roleAnd how chronic pain might just be your body’s way of calling for your attentionIf you’ve tried everything and still feel stuck, this episode will help you understand why—and what to do about it.Don't forget to leave a Rating for the podcast!You can find Leigh @:Leigh's website - https://www.bodychek.co.uk/Chronic Pain Breakthrough Blueprint - https://www.bodychek.co.uk/freepainguide/Leigh's courses:StickAbility - https://stickabilitycourse.com/Mastering Client Transformation (professional course) - https://www.functionaldiagnosticnutrition.com/mastering-client-transformation/
undefined
Aug 18, 2025 • 2h 24min

170 - Rethinking Germ Theory, Parasites, Fungus & the Microbiome with Daniel Roytas

In this thought-provoking episode of The Radical Health Rebel Podcast, I welcome back author and health researcher Daniel Roytas for a deep dive into some of the most foundational – and controversial – beliefs in modern health. We explore the origins and flaws of germ theory, the misunderstood roles of mold, fungus, and parasites, and why the terrain – not the invader – might hold the real answers to chronic illness.Daniel shares why he walked away from a successful career in naturopathy and academia, and how his years of research have led him back to nature, simplicity, and the body’s innate intelligence. We challenge the mainstream view of “pathogens,” examine the overlooked role of environmental toxicity, and question everything from probiotics to fiber to functional medicine protocols.If you’ve ever wondered whether bacteria, parasites, and even inflammation are actually part of the problem—or part of the solution—this episode will open your mind in the best way.🎙 This is the final episode of The Radical Health Rebel Podcast before we rebrand to Beyond The Pain. And what a blockbuster to go out on! It’s bold, eye-opening, and the perfect way to close this chapter and step into a new era focused on chronic pain and its root causes.📺 Dan also shares some visuals in this episode, so I highly recommend watching on YouTube or Rumble for the full experience.Whether you’re a health practitioner or someone questioning the mainstream narrative, this episode offers powerful insights grounded in curiosity, honesty, and deep inquiry.Chapters:00:00 – Introduction & Personal Reflections05:30 – Daniel’s Awakening & Back to Basics Philosophy12:30 – Indigenous Wisdom vs. Modern Sickness17:00 – Rethinking Fungus, Mold & Environmental Toxicity24:00 – Mycotoxins, Mold Spores & the Ice Cream Machine Analogy32:30 – Parasites as Protectors, Not Predators40:00 – Do Parasites Come from Within? Spontaneous Generation & Pleomorphism48:00 – Functional Medicine Frameworks Under the Microscope56:00 – The Microbiome: A Consequence, Not a Cause?01:04:30 – Is There One Right Diet or Microbiome?01:10:30 – Redefining Pathogens, Commensals & Gut Ecology01:17:00 – Inflammation, LPS & the Blame Game01:22:30 – Injury, Ice & the RICE Protocol Myth01:26:00 – Is Fibre Always Good for You?01:32:30 – Final Thoughts & What the Future DemandsYou can find Dan at:https://www.humanley.comDan's Book:"Can You Catch A Cold"Send us a textSupport the showDon't forget to leave a Rating for the podcast!You can find Leigh @: Leigh's website - https://www.bodychek.co.uk/ Chronic Pain Breakthrough Blueprint - https://www.bodychek.co.uk/freepainguide/ Leigh's courses: StickAbility - https://stickabilitycourse.com/ Mastering Client Transformation (professional course) - https://www.functionaldiagnosticnutrition.com/mastering-client-transformation/
undefined
Aug 11, 2025 • 59min

169 - Healing Sjogren's Disease: Divya's Journey with Divya Dhawan

In this episode of the Radical Health Rebel podcast, Divya Dhawan shares her personal journey with Sjogren's disease and how it led her to become a functional health practitioner. She discusses the importance of gut health, the role of diet and lifestyle in managing autoimmune conditions, and the need for movement in maintaining joint health. Divya emphasizes that joint pain is not an inevitable part of aging and that holistic approaches can lead to healing. She also provides practical steps for listeners to break the cycle of pain and improve their overall health.Chapters:00:00 Divya's Journey to Health Coaching05:01 Understanding Sjogren's Disease and Treatment Options07:17 Education and Training in Functional Health09:00 Functional Medicine vs. Conventional Medicine17:43 The Myth of Aging and Joint Pain24:18 Movement and Joint Health26:16 Harnessing Energy Through Movement27:35 The Power of Belief in Healing30:20 Understanding Inflammation and Joint Health32:41 The Gut-Joint Connection35:49 Dietary Impact on Inflammation37:47 The Carnivore Diet Debate42:27 Practical Steps for Pain Relief45:40 Finding the Right Movement for You51:02 Creating a Ripple Effect in Health AwarenessYou can find Divya @:https://www.sjogrenssolution.comhttps://www.instagram.com/sjogrensqueenhttps://www.facebook.com/divya.dhn https://www.linkedin.com/in/divya-dhawan-b645791b6/Send us a textSupport the showDon't forget to leave a Rating for the podcast!You can find Leigh @: Leigh's website - https://www.bodychek.co.uk/ Chronic Pain Breakthrough Blueprint - https://www.bodychek.co.uk/freepainguide/ Leigh's courses: StickAbility - https://stickabilitycourse.com/ Mastering Client Transformation (professional course) - https://www.functionaldiagnosticnutrition.com/mastering-client-transformation/
undefined
Aug 4, 2025 • 1h 9min

168 - The Mind-Body Connection in Pain Management with Ben O'Loghlin

In this episode of the Radical Health Rebel podcast, Leigh Brandon interviews Ben O'Loghlin, an expert in the Alexander Technique. They discuss Ben's personal journey with chronic pain and how he discovered the Alexander Technique as a solution. The conversation delves into the role of the brain in muscle tension, the importance of active engagement in healing, and the misconceptions surrounding chronic pain. Ben emphasizes the significance of self-management and the mind-body connection in pain perception. They also explore how the Alexander Technique can benefit musicians by enhancing their performance through improved posture and relaxation. The episode concludes with Ben sharing his future plans for an online course and innovative approaches to teaching the Alexander Technique.Chapters00:00 The Journey to Alexander Technique03:03 Understanding the Alexander Technique05:58 Active vs Passive Treatments08:46 Challenging Age-Related Pain Myths11:40 Misconceptions About Back Pain14:44 The Role of the Medical Model17:38 Exploring Modalities for Pain Relief20:51 The Mind-Body Connection in Pain23:46 Navigating Automatic and Voluntary Systems33:43 Understanding Automatic Postural Control40:39 The Role of Directions in Alexander Technique47:42 Personal Transformations Through Alexander Technique54:28 Posture, Movement, and Performance in Musicians01:00:37 Engineering Perspective on Body Mechanics01:04:18 Future Directions and Innovations in Alexander TechniqueYou can find Ben @:https://www.backrepublic.comhttps://youtube.com/@benologhlinhttps://facebook.com/ben.ologhlinSend us a textSupport the showDon't forget to leave a Rating for the podcast!You can find Leigh @: Leigh's website - https://www.bodychek.co.uk/ Chronic Pain Breakthrough Blueprint - https://www.bodychek.co.uk/freepainguide/ Leigh's courses: StickAbility - https://stickabilitycourse.com/ Mastering Client Transformation (professional course) - https://www.functionaldiagnosticnutrition.com/mastering-client-transformation/
undefined
Jul 28, 2025 • 1h 13min

167 - From Eczema to Empowerment: Leeza's Holistic Journey with Leeza Tekeste

In this conversation, Leigh Brandon and Leeza discuss Leeza's journey into holistic health, her personal experiences with eczema, and the importance of diet, detoxification, and emotional well-being in skin health. They explore the role of boundaries in health, the challenges of navigating the medical system, and the significance of patience and persistence in the healing journey. Leeza shares her insights on empowering others to reclaim their health and the importance of supporting the body through natural means.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Transition to Video03:06 Leeza's Journey into Holistic Health05:58 The Impact of Eczema on Leeza's Life08:47 Understanding the Root Causes of Skin Conditions11:55 Detoxification and Its Effects on Skin Health14:48 The Role of Emotions in Physical Health17:32 The Importance of Taking Responsibility for Health20:46 The Limitations of Conventional Dermatology23:42 The Connection Between Diet and Skin Health26:29 Reflections on Personal Health Journeys29:23 The Dangers of Pharmaceuticals and Heavy Metals32:10 Topical Steroid Withdrawal and Its Consequences36:12 The Dangers of Corticosteroids38:24 Personal Experiences with Dermatology42:34 The Journey to Healing Psoriasis48:18 The Importance of Patience in Healing54:39 The Role of Boundaries in Health59:28 Nature's Healing Power and Personal GrowthYou can find Leeza @:https://alkaliyogi.comhttps://www.instagram.com/alkaliyogiSend us a textSupport the showDon't forget to leave a Rating for the podcast!You can find Leigh @: Leigh's website - https://www.bodychek.co.uk/ Chronic Pain Breakthrough Blueprint - https://www.bodychek.co.uk/freepainguide/ Leigh's courses: StickAbility - https://stickabilitycourse.com/ Mastering Client Transformation (professional course) - https://www.functionaldiagnosticnutrition.com/mastering-client-transformation/
undefined
Jul 21, 2025 • 1h 40min

166 - What Your Fascia Is Trying to Tell You About Pain with Margarita Bennett

In this episode of the Radical Health Rebel podcast, I interview Margarita Bennett, a medical intuitive and craniosacral therapist. We discuss Margarita's extensive journey in health and wellness, focusing on the importance of fascia, the psoas muscle, and the biofield in relation to emotional and physical health.The conversation delves into how unresolved emotions can manifest as physical pain, the significance of breath in healing, and practical steps for individuals seeking to improve their well-being.Margarita emphasizes the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit, and the necessity of addressing all layers of health for true healing.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Personal Journey03:11 Understanding Fascia and Its Importance05:49 The Role of Emotions in Physical Pain08:53 Fascial Techniques and Their Impact11:59 The Interconnection of Body Systems14:49 Energy Lines and Emotional Healing29:56 Healing Through Relationships33:32 The Connection Between Emotions and Physical Pain40:13 Understanding the Biofield and Its Impact on Health55:30 The Auric Field's Role in Anxiety and Depression01:04:27 The Psoas Muscle: The Emotional Muscle01:05:46 The Psoas Muscle: Emotional and Physical Connections01:16:40 Understanding the Five Osteopathic Diaphragms01:24:09 Healing Chronic Pain: Breath and Embodiment01:30:10 Margarita's Future Endeavors and InsightsYou can find Margarita @:Website: www.margaritabennett.co.ukFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556131809500Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/margaritabennett/SubStack: https://margaritabennett.substack.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@margarita-bennettSend us a textSupport the showDon't forget to leave a Rating for the podcast!You can find Leigh @: Leigh's website - https://www.bodychek.co.uk/ Chronic Pain Breakthrough Blueprint - https://www.bodychek.co.uk/freepainguide/ Leigh's courses: StickAbility - https://stickabilitycourse.com/ Mastering Client Transformation (professional course) - https://www.functionaldiagnosticnutrition.com/mastering-client-transformation/
undefined
Jul 14, 2025 • 1h 22min

165 - Escape the Aisles, Heal Your Gut: The Homesteading Solution with Elizabeth Bruckner

In this episode of the Radical Health Rebel podcast, Leigh Brandon interviews Elizabeth Bruckner, an acupuncturist and author, who shares her journey into acupuncture and Chinese medicine, her experiences with chronic illness, and the importance of gut health. They discuss the concept of homesteading as a modern approach to self-sufficiency and empowerment, emphasizing the connection between personal well-being and nutrition. Elizabeth also addresses common myths that hold people back from making positive changes in their lives, advocating for a mindset of feedback rather than failure. The conversation highlights the significance of finding joy in everyday life and the role of internal experts in guiding personal health decisions.Chapters00:00 Journey to Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine03:52 Understanding Chronic Illness and Healing08:57 The Power of Intention and Affirmations11:30 The Four Doctors: Happiness, Diet, Quiet, and Movement22:34 The Interconnection of Diet and Movement24:01 Nutrient-Dense Fast Food Solutions32:58 The Homesteader Mindset and Gut Health45:26 Empowerment Through Homesteading and Nutrition51:05 Overcoming Myths for Positive Change58:22 The Power of Joy in Change01:09:23 Navigating Chronic Illness with a Homesteader Mindset01:15:59 Future Projects and Resources for ListenersYou can find Elizabeth @:https://createwellnessproject.com/Send us a textSupport the showDon't forget to leave a Rating for the podcast!You can find Leigh @: Leigh's website - https://www.bodychek.co.uk/ Chronic Pain Breakthrough Blueprint - https://www.bodychek.co.uk/freepainguide/ Leigh's courses: StickAbility - https://stickabilitycourse.com/ Mastering Client Transformation (professional course) - https://www.functionaldiagnosticnutrition.com/mastering-client-transformation/
undefined
Jul 7, 2025 • 1h 7min

164 - Optimising Human Performance by Healing The Gut & Nervous System with Brendan Coates

In this episode of the Radical Health Rebel podcast, Brendan Coates shares his transformative journey into gut health and human behavior, detailing how personal health challenges led him to pursue education in clinical nutrition and functional medicine. He discusses the intricate connection between gut health and emotional well-being, emphasizing the impact of stress on digestion and overall health. Brendan debunks common myths surrounding digestion and offers actionable steps for listeners to begin healing their gut. He also addresses the reasons behind relapse in health journeys and highlights the importance of pursuing one's purpose for lasting change. The conversation concludes with insights into the upcoming Longevity Expo, aimed at educating the public on health and wellness.We discussed:00:00 Brendan's Journey into Gut Health05:26 The Connection Between Gut Health and Emotions11:05 Gut Health: The Second Brain20:09 The Interplay of Gut Health and Physical Performance26:54 Debunking Myths About Digestion and Gut Health33:54 The Role of Stomach Acid in Digestion39:02 Finding Your Purpose and Managing Stress41:09 Simplifying Nutrition for Better Health48:02 Understanding Relapse and Addiction53:10 The Longevity Summit: A New Era in Health EducationYou can find Brendan @:http://www.youtube.com/@GutGanghttps://www.instagram.com/gutgangpodcasthttps://www.instagram.com/the_gut_whispererrSend us a textSupport the showDon't forget to leave a Rating for the podcast!You can find Leigh @: Leigh's website - https://www.bodychek.co.uk/ Chronic Pain Breakthrough Blueprint - https://www.bodychek.co.uk/freepainguide/ Leigh's courses: StickAbility - https://stickabilitycourse.com/ Mastering Client Transformation (professional course) - https://www.functionaldiagnosticnutrition.com/mastering-client-transformation/
undefined
Jun 30, 2025 • 53min

163 - Natural Solutions for IBD & Autoimmunity | Dr. Anju Mathur

In this episode of the Radical Health Rebel Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Anju Mathur—a former conventional GP who made a bold shift into the world of integrative and functional medicine after witnessing firsthand the limitations of pharmaceutical-only approaches.We explore the complexities of autoimmune disease, the real differences between IBD and IBS, and why a colonoscopy might not give you the full picture. Dr. Mathur shares powerful insights into how nutrition and food sensitivities impact not only digestive health but also mental well-being.We also dive into innovative approaches for supporting autoimmune clients, including IV therapies, peptide therapies, and alternatives to biologic drugs. If you're dealing with chronic inflammation, gut issues, or an autoimmune condition—or you support clients who are—this episode is packed with valuable perspectives and practical advice.We discussed:00:00 Introduction to Dr. Anju Mathur's Journey02:49 Transition to Alternative Medicine06:13 Understanding Autoimmune Diseases09:05 Distinguishing IBD from IBS12:00 The Role of Colonoscopies14:53 Nutrition's Impact on IBD25:40 The Impact of Food on Mental Health30:09 Understanding Food Sensitivity Testing33:05 The Role of Intravenous Therapies in Autoimmune Conditions38:48 Exploring Biologics and Their Alternatives45:06 The Future of Peptides in Health and LongevityYou can find Dr Anju @:www.angellongevity.comSend us a textSupport the showDon't forget to leave a Rating for the podcast!You can find Leigh @: Leigh's website - https://www.bodychek.co.uk/ Chronic Pain Breakthrough Blueprint - https://www.bodychek.co.uk/freepainguide/ Leigh's courses: StickAbility - https://stickabilitycourse.com/ Mastering Client Transformation (professional course) - https://www.functionaldiagnosticnutrition.com/mastering-client-transformation/
undefined
Jun 23, 2025 • 60min

161 - Is Your Skin Crying Out for Gut and Hormonal Support? with Ana Pang

In this episode, I’m joined by Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioner Ana Pang to explore the often-overlooked links between gut health, hormones, and chronic skin issues—especially during menopause.Ana shares her personal journey healing severe eczema and reveals why topical treatments alone rarely solve chronic skin problems. We discuss the deeper role of gut health, hormonal balance, nutrition, and hydration in restoring skin vitality—plus how Ana’s Precision Bio Balance Method helps women heal from within.We discussed:Chapters00:00 Introduction to Traditional Chinese Medicine and Personal Journey03:45 The Connection Between Skin Health and Hormonal Balance12:34 Understanding Menopause and Its Impact on Skin21:01 Misconceptions in Treating Chronic Skin Conditions25:31 Research Insights on Acne Treatments27:21 The Long-Term Effects of Skincare Products30:49 Natural vs. Synthetic: The Skincare Debate31:56 Traditional Chinese Medicine and Skin Health39:06 Precision Bio Balance Method for Hormonal Health49:40 Hydration and Its Importance for Skin HealthYou can find Ana @:Website: http://www.menopauseskincare.lifeYoutube: http://www.youtube.com/@pangana78218Send us a textSupport the showDon't forget to leave a Rating for the podcast!You can find Leigh @: Leigh's website - https://www.bodychek.co.uk/ Chronic Pain Breakthrough Blueprint - https://www.bodychek.co.uk/freepainguide/ Leigh's courses: StickAbility - https://stickabilitycourse.com/ Mastering Client Transformation (professional course) - https://www.functionaldiagnosticnutrition.com/mastering-client-transformation/

The AI-powered Podcast Player

Save insights by tapping your headphones, chat with episodes, discover the best highlights - and more!
App store bannerPlay store banner
Get the app