Throughout this transformative episode, Lyndsay Soprano takes you on a raw, unfiltered journey into the heart of anxiety with special guest John Graham, a three-time USA Memory Champion and Grandmaster of Memory. Anxiety isn't just a word—it's a constant, often invisible force that many battle with every day, and for Lyndsay, it's been a lifelong adversary, haunting her since she was just nine years old. Together, Lyndsay and John open up about their deeply personal experiences with anxiety, offering a window into the pain, chaos, and overwhelming fear that so often come with it.

John's story takes a powerful turn as he describes his transition from relentless panic attacks to discovering unconventional ways to heal. Forget the usual advice; John introduces a method called "collecting potential," which reshapes how we think about managing anxiety. By rewiring the nervous system, releasing pent-up emotions, and confronting the mental traps that hold us back, he found his way out of the storm—and he's here to share how you can, too.

This isn't just another conversation about anxiety. It’s an invitation to look at the beast in the mirror, challenge its grip, and uncover the possibilities waiting beneath the surface. Whether you've felt trapped by your own mind or know someone who has, this episode brings hope, insight, and real-life tools to help break the cycle and reclaim your peace.

Find John Graham Online Here:
Instagram: @memoryjohng
Facebook: John Graham
YouTube: John Graham - USA Memory Champion
Linked In: John Graham
Website: optimizeyourmind.co

Find The Pain Game Podcast Online Here:
Website: thepaingamepodcast.com
Instagram: @thepaingamepodcast

Episode Highlights:
(00:00) Welcome to The Pain Game Podcast, where we discuss chronic pain and trauma.
(04:11) John battled anxiety and panic attacks for 20 years using unconventional techniques.
(08:47) Lyndsay shares her experience with anti-anxiety medication.
(14:38) The instinct to immediately want to rid yourself of anxiety.
(17:56) John shares what he's done to manage anxiety.
(18:14) Unresolved moments from your past stay with you.
(21:41) Lyndsay struggles with controlling anxiety during meditation.
(28:05) The concept of letting go of anxiety and expanding your capacity.
(34:34) Does releasing suppressed emotions ease anxiety?
(36:53) The challenge of letting go of the mind’s identity.
(42:48) How do you escape anxiety in the moment?
(47:25) Releasing emotions increases your potential.
(56:41) Make peace with the things that bother you.