What if trauma recovery is not just about talking, but about training?
In this episode, host Jocelyn Rylee sits down with Dr. Stephanie Arel, whose work bridges religion and psychology. She holds a master’s degree in religion and psychiatry, and a Ph.D. in theology and trauma studies, along with clinical training and experience working at an eating disorder hospital. Drawing on her academic research, clinical work with trauma survivors, and personal journey as a CrossFit athlete, Arel explores how CrossFit’s methodology intersects with trauma recovery.
Arel explains how trauma permanently alters the stress system and why trauma recovery must involve the body, not just the mind. They unpack big T and little T trauma, how triggers show up in the gym, and why high-intensity training can help recalibrate the nervous system when paired with agency, trust, and appropriate scaling. The conversation explores the parallels between EMDR therapy and constantly varied functional movements, the role of competence in reducing fear, and why community is essential for recovery.
This is not about turning coaches into therapists. It is about becoming trauma-informed, understanding how stress and physiology interact, and recognizing the profound impact of intensity, skill development, and community inside a CrossFit affiliate.
If you care about mental health, nervous system regulation, coaching, or the deeper effects of training, this conversation will change how you see your next workout.
Topics Covered
The difference between big T and little T trauma
How trauma alters the stress response and nervous system
Why high-intensity training can recalibrate arousal systems
The role of agency, competence, and scaling in recovery
Community, vulnerability, and trust inside a CrossFit affiliate
Resources Mentioned
Vana Growth
“What Happened to You?” by Bruce D. Perry and Oprah Winfrey
“The Body Keeps the Score” by Bessel van der Kolk
Community Highlight
Nick McCombs owns a nonprofit CrossFit affiliate — and nearly half his members train for free.
In 2017, he and his wife, Whitney, opened Branded One CrossFit in Las Vegas, Nevada, with a simple promise: any disabled service member or first responder — with a 0-100% disability rating — can train at no cost. No catch. Just show up.
Today, veterans with PTSD, athletes missing limbs, and first responders rebuilding their lives make up a huge part of the community. The gym is sustained by paid memberships, fundraising, and people who believe fitness should change lives — not just physiques.
Nick doesn’t measure success by podium finishes. He measures it by watching someone walk again after a stroke. By seeing a man trade his walker for a run. By witnessing people reclaim strength, independence, and confidence.
Ireland