The Chronic Comeback

In this episode, Dr. Perry Nickelston — also known as The Lymph Doc and founder of Stop Chasing Pain — returns to the podcast to share his groundbreaking approach to healing chronic illness when nothing else seems to work. We explore why inflammation, poor lymphatic flow, and a dysregulated nervous system are often the true root causes behind chronic symptoms — even when your scans and blood tests come back “normal.” Perry breaks down his three-step process for healing: calming the nervous system, moving the body’s fluids, and creating the conditions the body needs to repair itself. This isn’t about adding more overwhelming protocols — it’s about going back to the foundational systems that most people (and practitioners) overlook. We also talk about the emotional side of healing, how stress and past trauma can feed physical symptoms, and why many people are unknowingly stuck in fight-or-flight. If you’re dealing with chronic fatigue, autoimmune issues, persistent pain, or unexplained symptoms, this episode will give you a new perspective — and real, practical hope. FOLLOW PERRY NICKELSTON ▶ Website -  https://www.stopchasingpain.com/ ▶ Instagram -  https://www.instagram.com/stopchasingpain/ FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL ▶ Facebook -  https://www.facebook.com/TheChronicComeback/ ▶ Instagram -  https://www.instagram.com/thechroniccomeback/ CHECK OUT THE YOUTUBE CHANNEL ▶ Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheChronicComeback Healing is not just possible—it’s inevitable. And remember, the comeback is always greater than the setback 💪💪💪 #thechroniccomeback #healingispossible #recoveryispossible #chronicillness  #drperrynickelston #stopchasingpain #inflammation #lymphatics 

Today I’m joined by Dr. Natalie, a naturopathic doctor specializing in gut health, joins us to explore the deep connection between the gut and brain, how hypervigilance and perfectionism can actually slow down healing, and why small, sustainable wins are the key to long-term progress. We also discuss: The gut-brain connection and its role in chronic illness How hypervigilance around symptoms creates a cycle of stress Perfectionism in treatment—when “doing everything right” becomes the problem The importance of foundational health habits (sleep, movement, and mindset) How to cultivate hope and make progress, even when healing feels impossible FOLLOW DR. NATALIE SCHEELER ▶LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalie-scheeler-1018047b/ FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL ▶ Facebook -  https://www.facebook.com/TheChronicComeback/ ▶ Instagram -  https://www.instagram.com/thechroniccomeback/ CHECK OUT THE YOUTUBE CHANNEL ▶ Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheChronicComeback Remember, the comeback is always greater than the setback 💪💪💪 #thechroniccomeback #healingispossible  #recoveryispossible #chronicillness  #naturopathy #gutbrainconnection #chronichealing #healingjourney #innerhealing #guthealing 

When Sophie Reynolds first fell ill, she thought it was just a virus. But what was supposed to be a short-term setback turned into a years-long battle with chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). With no clear answers from doctors and no quick fix, she found herself navigating an overwhelming world of uncertainty, frustration, and isolation. In this episode, Sophie shares her five-year journey of learning to manage and recover from chronic illness. She reflects on how her high-stress, high-achieving lifestyle as a prison officer and master’s student may have contributed to her health collapse. She opens up about the emotional toll of chronic illness, the challenges of navigating the traditional healthcare system, and how she eventually found her own path to healing. She talks about the turning points in her recovery, from discovering the power of slow, mindful movement through Pilates to shifting her mindset around productivity and success. She also shares how changing her environment, working on nervous system regulation, and building a more balanced life played a crucial role in her improvement. FOLLOW SOPHIE REYNOLDS ▶ Instagram -   https://www.instagram.com/sophiereynoldspilates/ FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL ▶ Facebook -  https://www.facebook.com/TheChronicComeback/ ▶ Instagram -  https://www.instagram.com/thechroniccomeback/ CHECK OUT THE YOUTUBE CHANNEL ▶ Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheChronicComeback Healing is not just possible—it’s inevitable. And remember, the comeback is always greater than the setback 💪💪💪 #thechroniccomeback #healingispossible #recoveryispossible #chronicillness  #foodlies #briansanders #healingthroughnutrition #healingjourney #innerhealing

In this episode, Brian Sanders, filmmaker behind Food Lies and host of Peak Human podcast, joins me to discuss the biggest diet myths keeping people stuck in cycles of poor health, chronic inflammation, and weight gain. He shares his own transformation story, how he reversed his declining health in his 30s, and what he’s learned after interviewing hundreds of top doctors and researchers on nutrition. We get into the real reasons so many people struggle with chronic illness, why the debate isn’t about carbs vs. fat but rather processed vs. whole foods, and how to eat for longevity, peak energy, and optimal health. Brian also explains why mindset, lifestyle, and community play a crucial role in healing and breaks down the five essential pillars of human health.  FOLLOW BRIAN SANDERS ▶ Instagram -   https://www.instagram.com/food.lies/ FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL ▶ Facebook -  https://www.facebook.com/TheChronicComeback ▶ Instagram -  https://www.instagram.com/thechroniccomeback/ CHECK OUT THE YOUTUBE CHANNEL ▶ Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheChronicComeback Healing is not just possible—it’s inevitable. And remember, the comeback is always greater than the setback 💪💪💪 #thechroniccomeback #healingispossible #recoveryispossible #chronicillness  #foodlies #briansanders #healingthroughnutrition #healingjourney #innerhealing

Today Dr. Cat King returns for her third conversation, sharing powerful insights into how shifting your identity and rewiring your nervous system can be the key to healing chronic illness. Dr. Cat, founder of the Primal Trust Academy, breaks down the science behind why so many people stay stuck in a cycle of symptoms, the role of trauma and stress responses, and the practical tools that can help retrain your body to move out of survival mode. We discuss the common mistakes people make when trying to recover, the impact of perfectionism and hypervigilance, and why embracing joy and movement is essential.  Topics Discussed: Why nervous system regulation is the missing piece in chronic illness recovery The role of identity in healing—why not seeing yourself as "sick" matters How hypervigilance and perfectionism can keep you stuck Why recovery isn’t about protocols, but about how you respond to life Practical tools to help rewire your brain and retrain your immune system CONNECT WITH DR. CAT KING ▶ Website -   https://www.primaltrust.org/ FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL ▶ Facebook -  https://www.facebook.com/TheChronicComeback/ ▶ Instagram -  https://www.instagram.com/thechroniccomeback/ CHECK OUT THE YOUTUBE CHANNEL ▶ Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheChronicComeback Healing is not just possible—it’s inevitable. And remember, the comeback is always greater than the setback 💪💪💪 #thechroniccomeback #healingispossible #recoveryispossible #chronicillness  #drcatking #chronicfatigue #nervoussystemregulation #nervoussystemhealing  #healingjourney #innerhealing

In this episode of The Chronic Comeback Podcast, we dive into the inspiring journey of Santa Wellness, who went from being completely bedridden with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) to reclaiming her health and life. After years of searching for answers, facing dismissive doctors, and feeling trapped in a cycle of illness, Santa discovered the power of nervous system regulation, brain retraining, and mindset shifts. She shares how she reframed her identity, let go of perfectionism, and learned to heal from within—ultimately proving that recovery is possible for anyone. Topics Covered: - How Santa’s identity as a “sick child” shaped her mindset The moment her life changed overnight—and she became bedbound for years - Why traditional medicine failed her and how she found alternative paths to healing - The role of brain retraining and nervous system regulation in her recovery - How shifting from “I need to heal” to “I am healed” changed everything Healing is not just possible—it’s inevitable. CONNECT WITH SANTA WELLNESS ▶ Instagram -   https://www.instagram.com/santa.wellness/ FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL ▶ Facebook -  https://www.facebook.com/TheChronicComeback ▶ Instagram -  https://www.instagram.com/thechroniccomeback/ CHECK OUT THE YOUTUBE CHANNEL ▶ Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheChronicComeback And remember, the comeback is always greater than the setback 💪💪💪 #thechroniccomeback #healingispossible #recoveryispossible #chronicillness  #santawelless #cfs #cfsrecoverystory #chronicfatiguesyndrome #chronicfatigue #healingjourney #innerhealing

Today I’m joined by Nic and Del, better known as the The Detoxing Duo, who share their story of overcoming chronic illness caused by toxic mold exposure after they unknowingly moved into a mold-infested apartment.  After years of mysterious debilitating symptoms, countless treatments, and a path of discovery, they’ve not only regained their health but are now helping others heal too, inside and out.  Highlights include: Their initial struggles with mysterious symptoms, and the differing symptoms among housemates, How they discovered the hidden culprit as toxic mold, and how it derailed their lives The emotional toll and lessons learned through their healing journeys, The transformative role of nervous system work and detoxification in their healing How chronic illness forced them to rethink their identities and redefine resilience, Their insights into finding joy and purpose even amidst challenges and chronic health issues.  CONNECT WITH THE DETOXING DUO ▶ Instagram -   https://www.instagram.com/thedetoxingduo/ ▶ Website - https://www.thedetoxingduo.com/ FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL ▶ Facebook -  https://www.facebook.com/TheChronicComeback/ ▶ Instagram -  https://www.instagram.com/thechroniccomeback/ CHECK OUT THE YOUTUBE CHANNEL ▶ Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheChronicComeback Remember, the comeback is always greater than the setback 💪💪💪 #thechroniccomeback #healingispossible  #recoveryispossible #chronicillness  #moldtoxicity #detoxingduo #thedetoxingduo #detoxification #moldillness #moldsymptoms #healingjourney #innerhealing #guthealing #nervoussystemregulation

In this episode I’m joined by Dr. Mart Pardee, a a naturopathic medical doctor and founder of ModernMed, to explore the gut and brain connection. Dr. Mary shares her journey from struggling with chronic GI issues herself to becoming a leading practitioner in holistic healing. We explore how rewiring the gut-brain axis can transform chronic symptoms, why over-testing and excessive supplements may sometimes delay recovery, and the critical role of hope and belief in the healing process. Dr. Mary also explains how addressing health anxiety and building healthier neural pathways are key to long-term well-being.  CONNECT WITH MARY ▶ Instagram -   https://www.instagram.com/dr.marypardee/ ▶ Website - https://www.modrnmed.com/dr-mary FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL ▶ Facebook -  https://www.facebook.com/TheChronicComeback ▶ Instagram -  https://www.instagram.com/thechroniccomeback/ CHECK OUT THE YOUTUBE CHANNEL ▶ Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheChronicComeback Remember, the comeback is always greater than the setback 💪💪💪 #thechroniccomeback #healingispossible #recoveryispossible #chronicillness #drmarypardee #guthealth #mindbodyconnection #chronichealth #chronicfatigue #healingjourney #innerhealing #naturopathy

In this episode I’m joined by Nicole who shares her incredible journey from being bedbound with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) to reclaiming her life and health. Nicole opens up about the years of debilitating chronic fatigue, brain fog, and despair, describing moments where she couldn’t even lift a finger. She reveals the turning points that helped her heal—letting go of guilt, calming her nervous system, and finding hope through recovery stories, including the ones here on this podcast We discuss the physical and emotional toll of chronic fatigue syndrome, the tools and practices that changed things for Nicole including breathwork, facial neuroreflexology, and mindset shifts. We also discuss the power of believing you can heal.  CONNECT WITH NICOLE ▶ Instagram -   https://www.instagram.com/_my_secret_life_with_m.e/ FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL ▶ Facebook -  https://www.facebook.com/TheChronicComeback ▶ Instagram -  https://www.instagram.com/thechroniccomeback/ CHECK OUT THE YOUTUBE CHANNEL ▶ Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheChronicComeback Remember, the comeback is always greater than the setback 💪💪💪 #thechroniccomeback #healingispossible  #recoveryispossible #chronicillness #rashlinbhachu #cfs #cfsrecoverystory #chronicfatiguesyndrome #chronicfatigue #healingjourney #innerhealing #merecovery

In today’s episode, I’m talking to Rashlin Bhachu about her inspiring journey from being bed-bound with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) to regaining her health and cultivating wellness from within. She shares her journey with me from the early signs of her illness, the trigger that caused her crash, and how she went inwards to take control of her own wellness and recovery to come back stronger and more at peace than before.  We discuss: - How to recognise the signs of nervous system dysregulation and burnout - The challenges of living with CFS and how it impacted Rashlin’s relationships and career - Discovering the importance of nervous system regulation, brain retraining, and somatic work - How Rashlin transformed her mindset and rebuilt her life - Rashlin’s advice for others navigating one of life’s curveballs This episode is packed with hope, practical insights, and actionable takeaways for anyone dealing with chronic illness. You can listen to Rashlin’s podcast, The Wellness Within, on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Connect with Rashlin on Instagram @rashlinbhachucoach or at www.rashlinbhachu.com CONNECT WITH RASHLIN  ▶ Instagram -   https://www.instagram.com/rashlinbhachucoach/ ▶ Website - https://www.rashlinbhachu.com/ ▶ The Wellness Within Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-wellness-within/id1783304574 FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL ▶ Facebook -  https://www.facebook.com/TheChronicComeback ▶ Instagram -  https://www.instagram.com/thechroniccomeback/ CHECK OUT THE YOUTUBE CHANNEL ▶ Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheChronicComeback Remember, the comeback is always greater than the setback 💪💪💪 #thechroniccomeback #healingispossible  #recoveryispossible #chronicillness  #lyme #rashlinbhachu #cfs #cfsrecoverystory #chronicfatiguesyndrome #chronicfatigue #healingjourney #innerhealing 

In this episode, Rebecca shares her transformative journey from living with chronic fatigue and burnout to regaining a balanced and fulfilling life. She opens up about her struggles with high school stress, the impact of childhood patterns, and how constant burnout affected her health. Through exploring her own mental and emotional patterns, Rebecca discovered the importance of self-care, boundaries, and listening to her body. She emphasises how alternative therapies like Faster EFT and nervous system regulation played a significant role in her recovery. Today, Rebecca is healthier and happier, having learned to balance self-compassion with personal goals. Her story is a testament to resilience, highlighting that healing is not always a linear journey, but small steps can lead to big changes. FOLLOW REBECCA ON SOCIAL  ▶ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/healwithrebecca_/ FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL ▶ Facebook -  https://www.facebook.com/TheChronicComeback ▶ Instagram -  https://www.instagram.com/thechroniccomeback/ CHECK OUT THE YOUTUBE CHANNEL ▶ Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheChronicComeback Remember, the comeback is always greater than the setback 💪💪💪 #thechroniccomeback #healingispossible #healingisinevitable #chronicillness #chronichealth #fasterEFT 

In this episode, I welcome back Christina Kantzavelos to discuss her evolving journey with chronic illness, including lyme disease. Christina, a holistic psychotherapist, shares her experiences from her Panchakarma retreat, an intense Ayurvedic detox, and explains how it helped her overcome physical and emotional obstacles. From overcoming debilitating symptoms to learning the art of patience and surrender, Christina’s story is a great reminder that healing isn’t linear but that it is always possible. Begin Within Today (Psychotherapy Services): beginwithintoday.com Buen Camino (Health & Lifestyle Blog): buencamino.com FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL ▶ Facebook -  https://www.facebook.com/TheChronicComeback ▶ Instagram -  https://www.instagram.com/thechroniccomeback/ CHECK OUT THE YOUTUBE CHANNEL ▶ Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheChronicComeback Remember, the comeback is always greater than the setback 💪💪💪 #thechroniccomeback #healingispossible #healingisinevitable #chronicillness #chronichealth #ayurveda #plantmedicine

Today on the podcast I’m joined by Angela Hepp, who shares her story of living with multiple chronic illnesses, including Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, POTS, and MCAS. Angie describes her struggles with receiving a proper diagnosis and validation over two decades and the difficult family dynamics surrounding her health. She explains how she finally began to see meaningful improvements through a program focused on nervous system regulation and holistic treatments.  SUBSCRIBE TO ANGELA ▶ Youtube -   https://www.youtube.com/c/angiehepp FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL ▶ Facebook -  https://www.facebook.com/TheChronicComeback ▶ Instagram -  https://www.instagram.com/thechroniccomeback/ CHECK OUT THE YOUTUBE CHANNEL ▶ Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheChronicComeback Remember, the comeback is always greater than the setback 💪💪💪

Today on the podcast I’m joined by Ross Chouler, who I met just over a year ago on an ayahuasca retreat. We had a lot in common and he has so much wisdom to share on his recovery from Heavy Metal Toxicity, so I wanted to get him on the show to share that with you guys too. FOLLOW ROSS ▶ Instagram -   https://www.instagram.com/jklivin0013/ FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL ▶ Facebook -  https://www.facebook.com/TheChronicComeback ▶ Instagram -  https://www.instagram.com/thechroniccomeback/ CHECK OUT THE YOUTUBE CHANNEL ▶ Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheChronicComeback Remember, the comeback is always greater than the setback 💪💪💪

Today on the podcast I’m joined by the renowned singer and songwriter, Marina Diamandis, formerly of Marina and the Diamonds. Marina opens up about her battle with chronic fatigue syndrome and the impact it’s had on her career, relationships and all aspects of her life. We discuss nervous system health, emotional well-being, mold illness, boundaries, some of the lifestyle changes she’s made during her healing, and healing through holistic practices. Marina shares her story so honestly and with so much vulnerability in this episode, and I hope if you’re struggling with CFS or any chronic illness right now, it offers you some hope and a little boost of inspiration on your recovery journey. FOLLOW MARINA ▶ Instagram -   https://www.instagram.com/marinadiamandis/ FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL ▶ Facebook -  https://www.facebook.com/TheChronicComeback ▶ Instagram -  https://www.instagram.com/thechroniccomeback/ CHECK OUT THE YOUTUBE CHANNEL ▶ Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheChronicComeback Remember, the comeback is always greater than the setback 💪💪💪 #chroniccomeback #healingispossible #thecomebackisgteaterthanthesetback #recoveryisinevitable #marinadiamandis #chronicfatigue #cfs #chronicfatiguesyndrome #chronicillness #chronicillness

In this episode of the Chronic Comeback Podcast, I talk to Tim Peters who shares his experiences growing up with numerous health issues and dealing with chronic illness as an adult. The discussion covers our struggles with various medical conditions, including chronic Lyme disease, and the contrasting ways men and women cope with chronic illnesses. Tim opens up about the emotional and physical challenges he faced, including significant weight loss and the impact on his social relationships. Tim also delves into the various treatments and lifestyle changes that have helped him improve his health, including moving to Arizona for a better climate and adopting brain rewiring techniques. The episode serves as a candid and inspirational conversation on finding resilience and hope amid chronic health challenges. FOLLOW TIM ▶ Instagram -   https://www.instagram.com/mind_bodybusiness/ ▶ Website - https://www.mind-bodybusiness.com/about-me FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL ▶ Facebook -  https://www.facebook.com/TheChronicComeback ▶ Instagram -  https://www.instagram.com/thechroniccomeback/ CHECK OUT THE YOUTUBE CHANNEL ▶ Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheChronicComeback Remember, the comeback is always greater than the setback 💪💪💪 #thechroniccomeback  #healingispossible  #recoveryispossible #chronicillness  #chroniclyme  #chronicconditions #cirs #lymediseaseawareness #lymedisease #chronichealth #chronichealthproblems

In this episode, I’m joined by Lauren Less, who shares with me her chronic comeback story of overcoming Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), Lyme disease, POTS & More. We discuss the importance of mental resilience and seeking out inspiration through the success stories of others, as well as the power of mindset work.  FOLLOW LAUREN ▶ Instagram -   https://www.instagram.com/lesswithlaur/?hl=en ▶ Website - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtLij0tRLjg20QMwIzcuzWg FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL ▶ Facebook -  https://www.facebook.com/TheChronicComeback ▶ Instagram -  https://www.instagram.com/thechroniccomeback/ CHECK OUT THE YOUTUBE CHANNEL ▶ Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheChronicComeback Remember, the comeback is always greater than the setback 💪💪💪 #thechroniccomeback #healingispossible  #recoveryispossible #chronicillness  #lyme #lymedisease #eds #ehlersdanolossyndrome #chronicconditions #healingprocess #healingjourney #pots

In this episode of The Chronic Comeback Podcast, I am joined by Josh and Joe, known as The Healing Dudes. Together, they dive into their personal journeys with chronic illness, particularly Lyme disease, and the unique challenges men face in dealing with chronic health conditions. Josh elaborates on his experience from being a senior engineer and athlete to struggling with severe illness, losing his home, and battling through countless medical appointments. Joe shares a similar trajectory, detailing his initial symptoms during college, his exploration into mind-body healing, and subsequent relapse after contracting COVID-19. Both discuss the importance of community, consistency, and the transformative power of embracing both masculine and feminine energies in the healing process. They also highlight their collective effort to bring male representation into the chronic illness community and encourage a balanced approach to health and wellness. Their stories are inspirational, emphasising resilience, the value of movement and exercise, and finding joy amidst adversity. FOLLOW THE HEALING DUDES ▶ Instagram -  https://www.instagram.com/thehealingdudes/ ▶ Website - https://www.thehealingdudes.com/ FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL ▶ Facebook -  https://www.facebook.com/TheChronicComeback ▶ Instagram -  https://www.instagram.com/thechroniccomeback/ FOLLOW THE YOUTUBE CHANNEL ▶ Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheChronicComeback Remember, the comeback is always greater than the setback 💪💪💪 #thechroniccomeback #healingispossible  #recoveryispossible #chronicillness  #lyme #lymedisease #lymediseaseawareness #lymediseasetreatment #chronicconditions #healingprocess #healingjourney

We're back! And in this episode, I welcome back Vanessa Azelis, also known as The Grateful Guide, for another conversation about her journey with chronic illness and grief. Vanessa shares her story of contracting a rare parasite in 2009 and the ensuing struggle with multiple chronic conditions including chronic fatigue syndrome and POTS syndrome. She discusses the pivotal moment of finding hope through brain retraining and her intensive healing journey. Vanessa also opens up about enduring another perfect storm in 2021, when she lost her father and battled long COVID. She emphasises the importance of integrating grief and self-compassion in the healing process. Vanessa shares practical advice on balancing increasing activity while maintaining a regulated nervous system and addressing the physical aspects of chronic illness. FOLLOW VANESSA ▶ Instagram -   https://www.instagram.com/yourgratefulguide/ ▶ Website - https://yourgratefulguide.com/ FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL ▶ Facebook -   / thechroniccomeback   ▶ Instagram -   / thechroniccomeback   FOLLOW THE PODCAST ▶ Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... ▶ Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/71485tI... Remember, the comeback is always greater than the setback 💪💪💪 #multiplechronicconditions #chronicfatigue #pots #chronicfatiguesyndrome #chronicconditions #thechroniccomeback #healingispossible #recoveryispossible #chronicillness

Title says it all....