In this powerful re-airing of an interview originally featured on the Holistish Podcast with host Lianne Balazsi, Emily Fraser dives deep into her journey from high-achieving perfectionist to becoming bedridden after a traumatic brain injury—and how she turned that breakdown into a breakthrough.
Emily opens up about the emotional toll of chronic illness, the frustration of being dismissed by doctors, and how the nervous system became her compass for healing. She shares the hard truths about medical gaslighting, identity loss, and the messy middle of recovery—offering hope and validation to anyone feeling stuck or misunderstood.
Whether you're new to your healing journey or deep in the weeds, this episode reminds you: you're not broken, and you don’t have to heal alone.
🔔 What You'll Learn:
→ The backstory of how Emily went from educator to disabled after a life-changing concussion
→ The emotional layers of chronic illness: grief, identity loss, and self-trust
→ The power of nervous system regulation in real, lasting healing
→ How high-achieving traits like people-pleasing can sabotage recovery
→ Why performing healing or chasing the “right” treatment can keep us stuck
→ What PRP injections and body-based modalities taught her about somatic trust
→ How trauma bonding with providers can delay progress—and how to reclaim agency
→ Why community is a crucial (and often missing) piece in the healing journey
Want to learn how to find freedom from chronic pain and fatigue?
Register for my free training: https://go.thespooniementor.com/free/
Instagram: https://instagram.com/thespooniementor
Website: https://www.thespooniementor.com/
In this powerful episode, we sit down with a TSP alum, Shiloh Gray, who went from barely making it through the day to managing markets, getting married, and living in alignment with their body. Through the lens of their deeply personal story, they share what it's really like to live with a chronic illness—and how learning to pace, regulate their nervous system, and receive support changed everything.Whether you're currently navigating chronic fatigue, burnout, or invisible illness—or you support someone who is—this episode is filled with insights, inspiration, and hard-won wisdom about what true healing looks like.
In this episode, we explore:
Perfect for listeners who are:
Meet Oliver Phoenix, a somatic coach, yoga teacher, & movement artist who works with queer and neurodivergent folks to help them live with greater ease (& joy!) as their most authentic selves.In this empowering conversation, we talk about reconnecting with your body through somatic practices—especially for those living with chronic illness, neurodivergence, and trauma.
Together, we unpack what somatic work really means, why it’s gaining popularity, and how it can help you escape the boom-bust cycle of flare-ups and crashes.
You’ll learn how to use body-based tools to support your nervous system, develop interoceptive awareness, and stop ignoring the subtle signs your body sends before burnout hits.
🔑 Key Takeaways:
What somatics are and how they help with chronic pain, fatigue, and flare-ups
The importance of interoceptive awareness (aka: listening to your body's cues)
How to reframe pain and build safety in your body gently and effectively
The connection between authenticity, movement, and healing
💬 DM Oliver on IG: @theoliverphoenix
🌐 Learn More: theoliverphoenix.com
🎧 Listen to Oliver's Podcast: The Somatic Spectrum
Get Daily Somatic Movement Prompts in May: https://neurotransmissions.substack.com/s/may-we-move
Book 1:1 Somatic Coaching: https://theoliverphoenix.com/contact
Want to learn how to find freedom from chronic pain and fatigue? Register for my free training: https://www.thespooniementor.com/free/
Instagram: https://instagram.com/thespooniementor
Website: https://www.thespooniementor.com/
Ever wondered how you can travel the world as a spoonie without triggering a flare-up? In this episode, I share my 16-day journey through Europe—Barcelona, Mallorca, and Paris—while managing chronic illness and navigating international travel. From essential travel tips to mindset shifts, I dive deep into the strategies that allowed me to thrive, not just survive, while exploring new places and experiencing a life-changing adventure.
In this episode, I cover:
My pre-trip preparation (check out the previous episode for more details)
The challenges and joys of flying with a hidden disability
How I used pacing and mindful rest to prevent flare-ups while sightseeing
My go-to strategies for managing energy and fatigue during travel (from grounding exercises to using crystal bracelets)
How embracing a “thriving spoonie” mindset allowed me to let go of fear and experience more joy
Key moments in Barcelona, Mallorca, and Paris that tested my limits and taught me important lessons about self-care, intuition, and boundaries
Practical tips for managing anxiety, back pain, and other common spoonie symptoms while traveling
How I’ve learned to expand my capacity over time and set new goals for self-improvement in both travel and life
Whether you’re a spoonie who loves to travel or someone who’s been afraid to take the plunge, this episode will offer you inspiration, practical advice, and the confidence to start planning your next adventure with ease. No matter what challenges you face, you can still explore the world on your terms.
I’m sharing how I’m preparing for a two-week trip to Europe as a spoonie — from the excitement (and nerves!) to the mindset shifts, packing essentials, and pacing strategies that help me travel with more ease.
You'll hear:
How I’m adjusting to the time zone before my flight
What’s in my carry-on and flare-up kit (heatwraps, electrolytes, meditations + more)
How I’ve planned rest into my itinerary (including spa days and slow café mornings)
The simple ways I’m supporting my nervous system and asking for help
How ChatGPT helped me prep with spoonie-friendly travel tips and pacing ideas
Whether you’re planning your own trip or just dreaming of future adventures, I hope this episode reminds you that travel is possible — even with chronic illness — when you honor your body, plan ahead, and lead with compassion. 💛
Want to learn how to find freedom from chronic pain and fatigue? Register for my free training: https://www.thespooniementor.com/free/
Instagram: https://instagram.com/thespooniementor
Website: https://www.thespooniementor.com/
In this episode, I chat with the inspiring Eline Duk, a chronic pain coach and disability advocate who is the founder of The Spoonies Community.
After two major accidents, she was diagnosed with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) and Functional Neurological Disorder (FND).
We explore how she has learned to live well alongside her chronic health conditions, and the incredible journey of discovering somatic work and holistic healing.
Stay connected with Eline here:
Want to learn how to find freedom from chronic pain and fatigue? Register for my free training: https://www.thespooniementor.com/free/
Instagram: https://instagram.com/thespooniementor
Website: https://www.thespooniementor.com/
I had a full circle moment last week and needed to share it with all of you! If you're feeling stuck on your recovery and needing some motivation, this is for you.
Free Workshop: https://go.thespooniementor.com/free
Instagram: https://instagram.com/thespooniementor
Website: https://www.thespooniementor.com/
In this episode, I share where I've been for the last several months and share why I'm back. xoxo
Sign Up for my free flare-up freedom workshop:
I recorded a conversation with three amazing members of my group mentorship program: the Thriving Spoonie Pathway.
They share where they were before they joined, how their life has changed since then, and what helped them make the decision to join.
TSP is a live group experience that will help you find freedom from debilitating fatigue and unpredictable symptoms in under 16 weeks!
Visit https://www.thespooniementor.com/tsp for more details!
Want to learn how to find freedom from chronic pain and fatigue? Register for my free training: https://www.thespooniementor.com/free/
Thriving Spoonie Pathway (Live Group Program for Spoonies): https://www.thespooniementor.com/tsp
Instagram: https://instagram.com/thespooniementor
Website: https://www.thespooniementor.com/
I'm hosting a free workshop on Thriving when chronically ill!
Sign up here: http://thespooniementor.com/free
My 2024 has been FULL of ups and downs! Tune in to hear what's been going on in my life and how I've been navigating the rollercoaster. Free Masterclass: https://www.thespooniementor.com/free Thriving Spoonie Pathway (Group Mentorship Program) https://www.thespooniementor.com/tsp Earn with Ease (Business Coaching for Spoonies): https://www.thespooniementor.com/earnwithease Instagram: https://instagram.com/thespooniementor Contact: hello@thespooniementor.com
Today I'm breaking down spoonie-friendly business models (and which ones are NOT filled with ease!). Thinking of becoming a spooniepreneur? Message me on instagram @TheSpoonieMentor and share your biz idea with me!
Earn with Ease (Business Coaching): https://www.emilyfraser.ca/earnwithease
Instagram: https://instagram.com/thespooniementor
Website: https://www.emilyfraser.ca/
Ever thought of starting a business? I'm breaking down the reasons why I think becoming an entrepreneur is an amazing option for anyone with chronic illness. Dream of working 2-4 hours on weekdays, living in your PJs, and being able to take breaks whenever you want? This episode is for you!
Earn with Ease (Business Coaching): https://www.emilyfraser.ca/earnwithease
Want to learn how to find freedom from chronic pain and fatigue? Register for my free training Flare-Up Freedom: https://www.thespooniementor.com/free/
Thriving Spoonie Pathway (Live Group Program for Spoonies): https://www.emilyfraser.ca/tsp
Instagram: https://instagram.com/thespooniementor
Website: https://www.emilyfraser.ca/
Emily shares an update about her journey with IVF. How she has moved through fear and allowed herself to let go of control and trust the process.
Want to learn how to find freedom from chronic pain and fatigue? Register for my free training Flare-Up Freedom: https://www.thespooniementor.com/free/
Thriving Spoonie Pathway (Live Group Program for Spoonies): https://www.emilyfraser.ca/tsp
Earn with Ease (Business Coaching): https://www.emilyfraser.ca/earnwithease
Instagram: https://instagram.com/thespooniementor
Website: https://www.emilyfraser.ca/
Did you know that movement can actually RESTORE your spoons? Exercising with chronic illness is tricky - especially for those whose health can fluctuate daily.
In this episode, Zoe of @ActivelyAutoimmune breaks down tangible strategies to help people implement a sustainable and consistent movement routine. She uses her expertise as physiotherapist, personal trainer, and pilates instructor to create transformative programs for fellow spoonies.
Even if you experience post-exertional malaise or are currently bed-ridden, there are tips in this episode for you!
Check out Zoe's work: https://www.activelyautoimmune.com/
Want to learn how to find freedom from chronic pain and fatigue? Register for my free training Flare-Up Freedom: https://www.thespooniementor.com/free/
Thriving Spoonie Pathway (Live Group Program for Spoonies): https://www.emilyfraser.ca/tsp
Earn with Ease (Business Coaching): https://www.emilyfraser.ca/earnwithease
Instagram: https://instagram.com/thespooniementor
Website: https://www.emilyfraser.ca/
I almost had a huge setback this week. Listen to the episode to learn how I avoided it.
Want to learn how to find freedom from chronic pain and fatigue? Register for my free training Flare-Up Freedom: https://www.thespooniementor.com/free/
Thriving Spoonie Pathway (Live Group Program for Spoonies): https://www.emilyfraser.ca/tsp
Earn with Ease (Business Coaching): https://www.emilyfraser.ca/earnwithease
Instagram: https://instagram.com/thespooniementor
Website: https://www.emilyfraser.ca/
Today's guest expert is Scotty Stiles, a Pain Relief Coach and Mindbody Practitioner. Tune into this episode to hear his inspiring story!
Scotty coaches men and women across the world via Zoom, assisting clients who are on their own self healing journey of overcoming chronic neuroplastic and mind-body symptoms that are related to stress, repressed emotions, and learned neural pathways from the brain. Scotty is a certified coach from the MindBodyFood Institute and is trained by Dr. Howard Schubiner in Pain Reprocessing Therapy and Emotional Awareness and Expression Therapy. It is his vision to help clients uncover their innate self healing capabilities that allow them to unlearn conditioned neural pathways & to turn the volume down on the danger signal that causes chronic pain and symptoms so that they can be living the life that was truly meant for them.
Follow him for his free content across all social media platforms at @howtohealchronicpain
Offering 1:1 Mindbody Coaching and Pain Reprocessing over Zoom. Book your FREE 30-min Discovery Call here: http://calendly.com/howtohealchronicpain
https://linktr.ee/howtohealchronicpain
Want to learn how to find freedom from chronic pain and fatigue? Register for my free training Flare-Up Freedom: https://www.thespooniementor.com/free/
Thriving Spoonie Pathway (Live Group Program for Spoonies): https://www.emilyfraser.ca/tsp
Earn with Ease (Business Coaching): https://www.emilyfraser.ca/earnwithease
Instagram: https://instagram.com/thespooniementor
Website: https://www.emilyfraser.ca/
Today Emily reflects on how her health has transformed over the last few years. What she is grateful for. What impacted her improvements. How she has been able to go from stuck in bed to doing a 4-hour hike! And the mindset shifts that helped her stop identifying as someone who is sick. VIP WAITLIST: The Art of Pacing https://emilyfraser.ck.page/theartofpacing Want to learn how to find freedom from chronic pain and fatigue? Register for my free training Flare-Up Freedom: https://www.thespooniementor.com/free/ Thriving Spoonie Pathway (Live Group Program for Spoonies): https://www.emilyfraser.ca/tsp Earn with Ease (Business Coaching): https://www.emilyfraser.ca/earnwithease Instagram: https://instagram.com/thespooniementor Website: https://www.emilyfraser.ca/
A physician in the middle of a pandemic, one who survived the earthquakes in Nepal, Christy realized the mounting rates of trauma. Seeing these showing up but not being recognized, she felt compelled to share what she knew about healing skills.
So she started creating on TikTok in January of 2021. People listened, not just because she shared tools they could use, but also because she looked at it from a systems lens. How trauma shows up in bodies, in families, and in communities. In this episode we discuss the difference between post-traumatic growth and resilience. Dr. Gibson shares advice for navigating health-care systems and the importance of storytelling for advocacy.
Connect with Dr. Christy Gibson: https://www.christygibson.com/
Order "The Modern Trauma Toolkit": https://www.moderntrauma.com/
VIP WAITLIST: The Art of Pacing https://emilyfraser.ck.page/theartofpacing
Want to learn how to find freedom from chronic pain and fatigue? Register for my free training Flare-Up Freedom: https://www.thespooniementor.com/free/
Thriving Spoonie Pathway (Live Group Program for Spoonies): https://www.emilyfraser.ca/tsp
Earn with Ease (Business Coaching): https://www.emilyfraser.ca/earnwithease
Instagram: https://instagram.com/thespooniementor
Website: https://www.emilyfraser.ca/
We are joined by guest expert Dr. Rita White in this episode! This is a must-listen for anyone who is a spoonie. We dig into hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hEDS), Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS), chronic fatigue, pelvic health, and MORE!
Connect with Dr. Rita: https://www.intrinsic-pt.com/
Follow Dr. Rita on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theintrinsicpt/
Want to learn how to find freedom from chronic pain and fatigue? Register for my free training Flare-Up Freedom: https://www.thespooniementor.com/free/
Thriving Spoonie Pathway (Live Group Program for Spoonies): https://www.emilyfraser.ca/tsp
Earn with Ease (Business Coaching): https://www.emilyfraser.ca/earnwithease
Instagram: https://instagram.com/thespooniementor
Website: https://www.emilyfraser.ca/
