In this episode of Healthy Wealthy & Smart, Dr. Rachel Zoffness, MS, PhD, a leading pain scientist, discusses the complexities of pain, emphasizing that it is not merely a physical issue but a biopsychosocial phenomenon. She shares insights from her upcoming book, 'Tell Me Where It Hurts,' which aims to debunk myths surrounding pain and provide a comprehensive roadmap for healing. Dr. Zoffness highlights the importance of understanding the various factors that contribute to pain, including emotional and social aspects, and advocates for a multidisciplinary approach to pain management. The discussion also emphasizes the power of hope and the need for improved medical school education on pain science.
Takeaways
· Pain is not just a physical phenomenon; it is biopsychosocial.
· Understanding pain requires knowledge of biological, emotional, and social factors.
· 96% of medical schools lack dedicated pain education.
· Patients with chronic pain need a roadmap for healing.
· There is always a recipe for pain, and it can be changed.
· Movement is a crucial ingredient in managing pain.
· Engaging in joyful activities can reduce pain perception.
· A multidisciplinary approach is essential for effective pain management.
· Hope is a central theme in treating chronic pain.
· Pain management should focus on empowering patients.
Chapters
· 00:00 Introduction to Pain Science and Its Misconceptions
· 06:03 The Biopsychosocial Model of Pain
· 11:43 Understanding the Pain Recipe
· 17:50 Transforming Medical Education and Clinical Practice
· 23:51 Hope and Empowerment in Pain Management
More About Dr. Zoffness:
Dr. Rachel Zoffness is a pain scientist, pain psychologist and thought-leader revolutionizing the way we understand and treat pain. She's an assistant clinical professor at UCSF, lectures at Stanford, and consults on the development of pain management programs around the world. She was trained at Brown, Columbia, UCSD, and Mt. Sinai Hospital, and is a Mayday Fellow. Her new book, Tell Me Where It Hurts, drops March 2026 and will be translated into more than 25 languages.
Resources from this Episode:
Buy “Tell Me Where it Hurts” on Amazon
Jane Sponsorship Information:
Mention the code LITZY1MO for a free month
Follow Dr. Karen Litzy on Social Media:
Subscribe to Healthy, Wealthy & Smart:
In this episode of the Healthy, Wealthy and Smart podcast, Dr. Karen Litzy speaks with Dr. Orit Hickman about the evolving understanding of persistent pain and the implications for physical therapy practice. They discuss personal journeys in understanding pain, the importance of modern pain science, and the need for a supportive therapeutic environment. The conversation also covers practical steps clinicians can take to better serve patients with persistent pain, the challenges posed by healthcare systems, and the transition towards a more patient-centered model of care.
Takeaways
· Pain management requires understanding both the physical and psychological aspects of pain.
· Modern pain science emphasizes the importance of education in treatment.
· Therapists must create a safe environment for patients to discuss their pain.
· Pacing and nervous system safety are crucial in treatment plans.
· Capacity and tolerance must be assessed to tailor treatment effectively.
· Healthcare systems often hinder the implementation of evidence-based practices.
· Clinicians should focus on building trust and rapport with patients.
· Transitioning to a patient-centered model can improve outcomes.
· Listening to patients is key to understanding their unique experiences.
· Team collaboration and shared vision are essential for successful practice.
Chapters
· 00:00 Introduction to Persistent Pain and Evolving Science
· 03:06 Personal Journeys in Understanding Pain
· 05:53 Modern Pain Science in Clinical Practice
· 09:06 Therapeutic Environment and Patient Engagement
· 11:52 Pacing and Nervous System Safety
· 15:02 Capacity vs. Tolerance in Pain Management
· 17:49 Healthcare System Challenges in Pain Treatment
· 21:51 Transitioning to a Patient-Centered Model
· 26:37 Practical Steps for Clinicians
· 33:50 Lightning Round: Myths and Hope in Pain Care
More About Dr. Hickman:
Dr. Orit Hickman is a doctor of physical therapy and founder of Pain Science Physical Therapy in Burien, Washington, where she leads a clinic dedicated to evidence-based care for people with persistent pain. Drawing on 25 years of clinical experience and 16 years of business ownership, she is focused on redesigning how physical therapy is delivered so pain science can truly work in everyday practice. She mentors both new and experienced physical therapists and shares educational content through multiple social media platforms.
Resources from this Episode:
Jane Sponsorship Information:
Mention the code LITZY1MO for a free month
Follow Dr. Karen Litzy on Social Media:
Subscribe to Healthy, Wealthy & Smart:
In this episode of the Healthy, Wealthy and Smart podcast, Dr. Karen Litzy speaks with Arielle Loupos, founder of Flower Girl, about the often-stigmatized topic of menstrual care and period products. They discuss harmful ingredients in traditional menstrual products, the importance of sustainable, non-toxic alternatives, and cycle syncing as a tool for self-awareness and empowerment. Arielle shares her journey creating Flower Girl and emphasizes the need for open conversations about menstruation to break the stigma and promote women's health.
Takeaways
- Menstrual care is often surrounded by misinformation and stigma.
- Traditional period products may contain harmful chemicals and toxins.
- Organic labeling on menstrual products can be misleading.
- Sustainable and non-toxic alternatives are essential for women's health.
- Cycle syncing can enhance self-awareness and optimize daily life.
- Women should honor their menstrual cycles and allow for rest.
- Understanding menstrual health is crucial for overall well-being.
- Open conversations about menstruation can empower women.
- Education about menstruation should start at a young age.
- Women's health research needs to be prioritized and expanded.
Chapters
- 00:00 Breaking the Silence on Menstrual Care
- 02:55 The Hidden Dangers in Period Products
- 06:10 Creating a Sustainable Solution: Flower Girl Underwear
- 08:55 Understanding Menstrual Health and Cycle Syncing
- 11:55 Empowering Women Through Menstrual Awareness
- 14:46 The Emotional and Societal Impact of Menstruation
- 18:02 The Future of Women's Health Conversations
More About Arielle:
Arielle Loupos is the founder of Flower Girl, a new sustainable and non-toxic period underwear brand designed to help women feel safe, confident, and in flow with their bodies. With over a decade of experience in eCommerce and digital marketing, Arielle launched Flower Girl to challenge harmful menstrual products and create underwear women can wear on or off their period made with body-safe materials. Beyond selling underwear, Arielle’s mission with the brand is to empower women to live in harmony with their cycles vs. working against it.
Resources from this Episode:
Jane Sponsorship Information:
Mention the code LITZY1MO for a free month
Follow Dr. Karen Litzy on Social Media:
Subscribe to Healthy, Wealthy & Smart:
In this episode of the Healthy, Wealthy and Smart podcast, Dr. Karen Litzy interviews Dr. Aisha Akpabio D.D.S., a Detroit-based dentist and entrepreneur. They discuss the challenges and triumphs of being a female healthcare provider while running a business. Dr. Akpabio shares her journey from employee to owner of her own dental practice, the importance of design in healthcare, and the significance of representation in the field. They also address the balance between delivering high-quality care and managing business aspects, as well as the importance of self-care for longevity in the profession.
Takeaways
· It takes courage to bring people together in healthcare.
· Transitioning from employee to entrepreneur requires a mindset shift.
· Business education in dental school is minimal.
· Delivering exceptional care justifies pricing.
· Patients appreciate a personal touch over corporate practices.
· Design can significantly impact patient experience.
· Representation in healthcare matters for community trust.
· Self-care is essential for longevity in the profession.
· Balancing work and personal life is crucial.
· Living in the moment is important for personal growth.
Chapters
· 00:00 Introduction to Female Healthcare Entrepreneurship
· 02:58 Dr. Aisha Akpabio's Journey and Practice
· 05:51 Transitioning from Dentist to Entrepreneur
· 08:41 Navigating Healthcare Pricing and Value
· 12:05 Competing with Corporate Dental Practices
· 12:57 The Importance of Design in Healthcare
· 16:49 Legacy and Representation in Dentistry
· 20:02 Self-Care and Longevity in Dentistry
More About Dr. Akpabio:
Dr. Aisha Akpabio D.D.S. is a Detroit-based dentist, entrepreneur, and community advocate dedicated to smiles and systems of care. As the founder of Diamond Smiles Dentistry, she is redefining what it means to build a thriving dental practice rooted in wellness, accessibility, and neighborhood revitalization. A graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business program, she leads with vision and heart, creating opportunities for growth in underserved communities while mentoring the next generation of healthcare professionals. Beyond dentistry, she is passionate about wellness, motherhood, and empowering others to build healthy, wealthy, and purpose-driven lives.
Resources from this Episode:
Diamond Smiles Dentistry Website
Instagram- Diamond Smiles Dentistry
Facebook - Diamond Smiles Dentistry
Jane Sponsorship Information:
Mention the code LITZY1MO for a free month
Follow Dr. Karen Litzy on Social Media:
Subscribe to Healthy, Wealthy & Smart: