In this powerful roundtable discussion, host Dana Jones is joined by Shelly Cannon, Denise Smith, and Andrea Lepcio to explore how strength training and functional movement can transform aging into an empowering journey. Together, they debunk myths about fitness after 40, share key movements for lifelong mobility (like squats, hip hinges, and floor transfers), and discuss the mindset shifts needed to stay strong, resilient, and pain-free for life. From cancer recovery to Parkinson’s breakthroughs, these stories highlight the power of movement, mindset, and community in building true longevity.

Perfect for anyone who wants to age strong, live empowered, and redefine what’s possible at any age.

Andrea's Bio:

I’m Andrea Lepcio. I use Coach Andrea as my title. But I am the founder of Mighty Fit. Coach Andrea Lepcio is an ACE-certified personal trainer, Yoga Medicine Registered Therapeutic Specialist (RYT-500 and E-RYT 200), Mat Pilates and Tai Chi teacher. She founded Mighty Fit in 2020 to help older people age with strength, ease, balance, and confidence.

https://www.mighty.fit/

https://www.instagram.com/coachandrealepcio/

Shelly's Bio:

Shelly Cannon is an integrative personal trainer who is dedicated to honoring and supporting athletes who transcend insurmountable challenges, channeling their strength not only to overcome personal obstacles but to uplift and inspire others. A lifelong competitive athlete, Shelly has excelled in bodybuilding, powerlifting, and strongman competitions, even while battling metastatic breast cancer. She has certifications from NASM, a Bionetic Specialist certification and a Brain Coach Certification from PosturePro. Her mission is to guide others out of pain and into their greatest strength by restoring balance to their bodies, helping them overcome physical limitations and reclaim their vitality.

https://www.instagram.com/shellycannon/

Denise's bio:

Denise Smith has been a physical therapist for over 20 years and has spent her years obtaining certifications that allow her to treat each patient as an individual with a focus on hands-on manual therapy techniques, functional movement patterns, and advanced treatment of athletes of all levels. She specializes in treating runners with a focus on running technique teaching with the use of video analysis and individualized drills to teach proper movement to help runners run faster, run longer, and run without pain. Denise believes our bodies were made to move and sitting is a disease that will cause long term damage to our bodies.

http://www.smithptplus.com/

http://www.instagram.com/smithptrun/#

Dana’s Links:

⁠⁠https://www.painfreeathletepodcast.com⁠⁠

⁠⁠10 Day Journaling Journey⁠⁠

Podcast Disclaimer:

The Pain-Free Podcast is presented solely for general information, education, and entertainment purposes. Any information presented in this podcast is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional diagnosis. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast or website is at the user’s own risk. As always, users should not disregard or delay obtaining medical advice for any medical or mental health condition that they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions.

In this episode of the Pain Free Athlete Podcast, host Dana Jones speaks with Alyssa Hermann and Alyssa Acompora, founders of Beyond the Athlete, a coaching platform dedicated to supporting former athletes in their transition out of sports. The conversation explores the challenges athletes face when leaving competitive sports, including identity crises, burnout, and the need for community support. The founders share their insights on coaching strategies, the importance of holistic wellness, and the creation of a supportive environment for former athletes to thrive beyond their athletic careers.

Alyssa Hermann, CEO

Former NIRSA Club Soccer Player

As a Registered Nurse, Board-Certified Nurse Coach and Former Athlete Transformation Coach, I am passionate about preparing athletes and former athletes for a fulfilling, healthy adult life. Soccer was the center of my world from the age of 5 until I graduated from the University of Florida and played my last game. I wish someone had been there to prepare me for the sudden loss of identity, passion, routine, community, and goals that came with leaving sports and transitioning into adult life. I found myself in a unique position as a Nurse and Former Athlete - I had the education, ability, and passion to empower others to create THEIR version of a healthy life AND I was part of a (former athlete/athlete) community that was severely lacking in support. Realizing this was my calling- I quit my traditional nursing job, became a board-certified coach, and dove head first into the world of supporting athletes and former athletes as they navigate life after sport.

Alyssa Acompora, COO

Former NCAA Division 1 Swimmer

As a Registered Nurse, Board-Certified Nurse Coach, and Certified Nutrition Coach, I pursued coaching because I am passionate about helping athletes and other high achievers pave a path of consistency and sustainable success, in all areas of life. When I was a D1 swimmer, my sport was everything to me. It’s hard to put into words the level of sacrifice and identity that goes into becoming an elite athlete. It took me almost 8 years as a nurse to realize how much the transition from “athlete” to “adult” shaped me into who I am today. Nowadays, I use what I learned as an athlete, nurse, and coach to lead a truly sustainable lifestyle. And while I’m grateful for my experience and expertise, I’m on a mission to ensure no other athlete is left alone to struggle through post-athletic life.

A-Team Links:

https://www.beyondtheathlete.net/

https://www.instagram.com/_beyondtheathlete/

https://www.facebook.com/groups/2038323973027123/

https://open.spotify.com/show/4O3CAo0lia2A6B3D5XeUHN

Dana’s Links:

⁠⁠⁠https://www.painfreeathletepodcast.com⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠10 Day Journaling Journey⁠⁠⁠

Podcast Disclaimer:

The Pain-Free Podcast is presented solely for general information, education, and entertainment purposes. Any information presented in this podcast is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional diagnosis. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast or website is at the user’s own risk. As always, users should not disregard or delay obtaining medical advice for any medical or mental health condition that they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions.

In this episode of the Pain Free Athlete Podcast, host Dana Jones speaks with Chad Dunn, co-founder and CEO of Move Human Performance Center. Chad shares his transformative journey from overcoming personal adversity, including time spent in prison, to becoming a behavioral change specialist in the field of health and sports performance. The conversation delves into the importance of mindset, behavior change, and resilience in both personal recovery and athletic performance. Chad emphasizes the need for a supportive environment and the role of coaching in developing young athletes' character and critical thinking skills. He also discusses strategies for long-term recovery and the significance of self-identity in navigating the pressures of youth sports.

Chad’s Bio:

After serving two years in federal prison for money-laundering, Chad Dunn rebuilt his life by inspiring others to overcome their limitations. A certified behavioral change specialist with over twenty years of experience in the health, modern fitness and sports performance fields, Chad has worked with NFL players, NBA prospects, and people recovering from catastrophic injuries. He co-founded and built MOVE Physical Therapy & Human Performance Center in Chandler, Arizona with his wife and business partner Jackie.

Email - info@moveperformance.com

Website - mindovervirtuallyeverything.com and moveperformance.com

IG: @moveperformance

FB: @chaddunn

Dana’s Links:

⁠⁠⁠https://www.painfreeathletepodcast.com⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠10 Day Journaling Journey⁠⁠⁠

Podcast Disclaimer:

The Pain-Free Podcast is presented solely for general information, education, and entertainment purposes. Any information presented in this podcast is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional diagnosis. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast or website is at the user’s own risk. As always, users should not disregard or delay obtaining medical advice for any medical or mental health condition that they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions.

In this episode of the Pain Free Athlete Podcast, host Dana Jones speaks with kinesiologist and yoga therapist Bobby Lollich about her journey through concussion recovery and the holistic approaches she employs to help athletes and individuals heal. Bobby shares her personal experience with a concussion, the importance of yoga therapy in recovery, and how she integrates nutrition and movement into her practice. The conversation also touches on the athleticism of Highland dance and the need for better communication regarding recovery needs among athletes.

Bobbi's Bio:

Bobbi Lalach is a certified Kinesiologist and Yoga Therapist with over 30 years of experience. She works with people to help them move pain-free and with ease. She also works with Highland Dancers to help them dancer longer and pain-free. She created the Highland Dancer's Edge digital course to help dancers dance pain free.

Website: KINnectionyogatherapy.com

IG-kinnectionyogatherapy and highland_dancers_edge

Dana’s Links:

⁠⁠https://www.painfreeathletepodcast.com⁠⁠

⁠⁠10 Day Journaling Journey⁠⁠

Podcast Disclaimer:

The Pain-Free Podcast is presented solely for general information, education, and entertainment purposes. Any information presented in this podcast is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional diagnosis. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast or website is at the user’s own risk. As always, users should not disregard or delay obtaining medical advice for any medical or mental health condition that they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions.

In this episode of the Pain Free Athlete Podcast, host Dana Jones speaks with Andrea Hall, a pain recovery coach, about her journey from chronic pain to recovery. Andrea shares her experiences with pain reprocessing therapy, the emotional and structural aspects of pain, and the importance of a supportive medical team. They discuss neuroplasticity, tools for managing pain, and the significance of enjoying life despite challenges. Andrea emphasizes that no one should have to live in chronic pain and encourages listeners to seek help and find joy in their lives.

Andrea's Bio:

Andrea Hall is a registered nurse, health coach, and community leader who blends medical expertise with a passion for fitness, spirituality, and whole-person wellness. Born and raised in Santa Rosa as the youngest of twelve children, Andrea grew up in a family of faith and service. Inspired by her mother, also a nurse, she spent countless nights following her on hospital rounds—experiences that sparked her lifelong calling to care for others.

At Kaiser Permanente in Santa Rosa, Andrea has worked across maternity, newborn, and women’s health. Beyond the hospital, she’s led community programs with Trinity Fitness and LIN Health, and she shares inspiration online as the “Fitness Nurse,” offering practical tips on movement, mindfulness, and everyday health. Her background spans nursing, multicultural studies, metaphysics, and physical fitness, giving her a unique, holistic perspective.

Now, as she looks ahead to new adventures, Andrea continues to write, teach, and inspire—bringing together her love of health, spirituality, and family to help others live fuller, more balanced lives.

Dana’s Links:

⁠⁠https://www.painfreeathletepodcast.com⁠⁠

⁠⁠10 Day Journaling Journey⁠⁠

Podcast Disclaimer:

The Pain-Free Podcast is presented solely for general information, education, and entertainment purposes. Any information presented in this podcast is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional diagnosis. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast or website is at the user’s own risk. As always, users should not disregard or delay obtaining medical advice for any medical or mental health condition that they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions.

In this episode of the Pain Free Athlete Podcast, host Dana Jones sits down with Lori Oliver and Jill MacRae, co-founders of The Inactive Company, to explore why quality sleep is the ultimate performance enhancer. They share the story behind their innovative Inactivator Sleep Mask, break down the science of sleep and recovery, and reveal why even elite athletes are turning to simple tools for better rest. Tune in to discover how upgrading your sleep can transform your training, recovery, and everyday energy.

Bios: Lori Oliver, Co-Founder & CEO of The Inactive Company, a sleep performance brand dedicated to developing technology and tools that enhance rest and recovery for everyone. Its innovative sleep mask, Inactivators™, is a scientifically backed solution to improve sleep.She has spent over 25 years as a veteran in brand and product building, driving business for corporate, consulting, and entrepreneurial companies from global to grassroots. Lori is also the founder of Birth, serving as a consultant to consumer goods startups. Previously, Lori was a member of the Spanx executive leadership team and the General Manager of Sara Blakely’s incubator. In addition to leading The Inactive Company and advising and investing in the Atlanta startup community, Lori is a long-time supporter and volunteer leader in education and efforts for girls' and women's development. Lori holds a Journalism degree from the University of Georgia.

Jill MacRae is a marketing executive with over 25 years of experience in building businesses and brands across B2B, B2C, and non-profit sectors. She is the founder and principal of JMACRAE GROUP, a boutique consulting firm that advises and collaborates with companies to formulate and implement strategic initiatives for growth and sustainability. Additionally, she is a co-founder of The Inactive Company, a sleep performance brand dedicated to developing technology and tools that enhance rest and recovery for everyone. Its innovative sleep mask, Inactivators™, is a scientifically backed solution to improve sleep. Before founding JMACRAE GROUP, Jill held various roles at SPANX, Inc., where she ultimately served as Executive Vice President of Global Commerce, establishing new retail distribution to expand product offerings and category channels. While there, Jill also held the positions of Vice President of Marketing and National Director of Sales. Before joining SPANX, Inc., Jill worked for major consumer product companies such as Starbucks Coffee Company, Darden Restaurants, Dunkin’ Brands, ClubCorp, and Planet Hollywood International. Jill has received numerous honors in her field, including Share Our Strength’s “Most Innovative Cause Marketer.” She is also passionate about leadership and giving back at both national and local levels. Ms. MacRae serves as an executive mentor for the Young Women’s Leadership Forum of Atlanta and the National Heart Association’s Go Red for Women.

Dana’s Links:

⁠⁠https://www.painfreeathletepodcast.com⁠⁠

⁠⁠10 Day Journaling Journey⁠⁠

Podcast Disclaimer:

The Pain-Free Podcast is presented solely for general information, education, and entertainment purposes. Any information presented in this podcast is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional diagnosis. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast or website is at the user’s own risk. As always, users should not disregard or delay obtaining medical advice for any medical or mental health condition that they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions.

In this episode of the Pain Free Athlete Podcast, host Dana Jones welcomes Cathy Spaas, a former elite international show jumper turned HSP advocate and coach. Cathy shares her journey from the pressures of high-level competition to empowering highly sensitive individuals to embrace their unique strengths. Discover how Cathy helps top professionals worldwide step into the spotlight with calm, confidence, and clarity. Tune in to learn about the superpowers of highly sensitive people and how to harness them for personal and professional success.

Cathy's Bio

Cathy Spaas is an HSP advocate and world-renowned coach for professional performers.

She is known as the creator of the term Spotlight Stress.

As a former elite international showjumper, Cathy is no stranger to the spotlight herself and the unique pressures faced by those ascending to the upper echelons of their profession.

Cathy has appeared on tv, top 10% podcasts, and in renowned media. She is a thought leader, bestselling author, and public speaker who has coached hundreds of clients through her groundbreaking Claim Your Shine modality.

She has 2 small kids and a big heart for animals - horses in particular.

Have a look at the website to discover how you, too, can thrive in the spotlight with our free 3-minute calm hack. ✨

https://yoursuccesstrainer.com

https://www.instagram.com/yoursuccesstrainer/

https://www.facebook.com/Cathy.Spaas

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLAog4RYvujlfmgjfZNPqoyzmqqSxzxFw3

Free giveaway - 3 minute calm reset -https://yoursuccesstrainer.com/reset

Dana’s Links:

⁠⁠https://www.painfreeathletepodcast.com⁠⁠

⁠⁠10 Day Journaling Journey⁠⁠

Podcast Disclaimer:

The Pain-Free Podcast is presented solely for general information, education, and entertainment purposes. Any information presented in this podcast is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional diagnosis. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast or website is at the user’s own risk. As always, users should not disregard or delay obtaining medical advice for any medical or mental health condition that they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions.

Elite mental performance coach Reanna Karp joins Dana Jones to discuss her holistic, human-first approach to empowering female athletes. Reanna shares insights from her decade of mental health and sports psychology experience, including her strategies for building self-worth, resilience, and joy through visualization, breathwork, and emotional training. The conversation dives into performance culture, burnout, the importance of fun, and practical mindset shifts for athletes, coaches, and parents. Reanna and Dana explore how reframing pressure, fostering self-expression, and prioritizing emotional well-being lead to happier, stronger athletes on and off the court.Reanna's Bio:Reanna Karp is a Mental Performance Coach for elite female basketball players, typically starting in high school and up. A former college and semi-pro player with a Master’s in Sport and Performance Psychology, she blends over a decade of mental health work with years of personal on-court experience as a player, and as a coach. Taking a spiritual, humanistic approach, Reanna focuses on the whole person—long before the athlete—helping players build self-worth, identity, and confidence through visualization, breathwork, imagery, emotional awareness, and thought training.

Reanna's Links:

Instagram: @reannakarp_

Web: https://www.reannakarp.com/

Dana’s Links:

⁠⁠https://www.painfreeathletepodcast.com⁠⁠

⁠⁠10 Day Journaling Journey⁠⁠

Podcast Disclaimer:

The Pain-Free Podcast is presented solely for general information, education, and entertainment purposes. Any information presented in this podcast is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional diagnosis. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast or website is at the user’s own risk. As always, users should not disregard or delay obtaining medical advice for any medical or mental health condition that they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions.