The Vitality Shift for Chiropractors: Recent Episodes
Dr. Don MacDonald
Welcome to The Vitality Shift Podcast for chiropractors, hosted by Dr. Don MacDonald. On this podcast, you will find a mix of interviews with thought leaders, best selling authors, and Chiropractors from around the world. All designed to inspire you, challenge you and help you get the most out of practice and life.
What does it take to build a thriving chiropractic practice, find the right associate, and expand into women’s health and pelvic floor care?
In this episode of The Informed Chiropractor Podcast, Dr. Don MacDonald sits down with Dr. Liz Walker to discuss her journey from playing college tennis in Australia to becoming a chiropractor and practice owner in Missoula, Montana.
Dr. Liz shares how a personal experience with chiropractic care at age 16 changed the direction of her life. After completing an exercise science degree, she attended the New Zealand College of Chiropractic, where she met her husband, Ian. Together, they eventually returned to Montana, where Dr. Liz began building her practice in 2014.
Rather than relying solely on traditional marketing, Dr. Liz built her patient base through community involvement, networking, local business organizations, women’s groups, fitness, and genuine relationships.
The conversation also explores the realities of chiropractic practice growth, including the challenges of finding and supporting the right associate. Dr. Liz explains what she has learned about communication, alignment, and creating an associate relationship where both the doctor and practice can grow.
Now she is entering another major chapter: moving from a 700-square-foot office into a newly purchased 2,000-square-foot building in Midtown Missoula. The expanded location will create room for massage therapy, a wet room, sauna, and cold plunge services while allowing her to deepen the practice’s focus on pregnancy, menopause, pelvic floor health, and women’s chiropractic care.
Dr. Liz also shares her experience attending Dr. Don and Brandi's Unlocking the Pelvis and Pelvic Floor seminar in Calgary. She discusses how the techniques influenced her personally and how she has incorporated what she learned into her clinical approach, including work with patients experiencing incontinence and symptoms related to cancer treatment.
This is a candid conversation about following your interests, building through community, choosing the right people, and allowing your chiropractic practice to evolve alongside your vision.
In this episode, you’ll hear about:* Dr. Liz’s journey from Australia to chiropractic practice in Montana * The personal chiropractic experience that influenced her career * Studying at the New Zealand College of Chiropractic * Building a chiropractic practice through community involvement * Developing a focus on pregnancy, menopause, and women’s health * The challenges of hiring and finding the right chiropractic associate * Why communication and alignment matter in an associate relationship * Expanding from a 700-square-foot clinic into a 2,000-square-foot facility * Integrating massage, sauna, cold plunge, and additional wellness services * Bringing pelvic floor techniques into chiropractic practice * Clinical experiences involving incontinence and cancer-related symptoms * Why enthusiasm, connection, and fun can contribute to a healthier practice
Whether you are building your first chiropractic practice, considering hiring an associate, or exploring ways to incorporate pelvic floor and women’s health care into your clinical approach, this episode offers practical insights and an encouraging look at what is possible.
📖 Related Article
https://drdonmacdonald.com/womens-health-pelvic-floor-chiropractic/
Learn MoreFree “Intro to the Polyvagal Lens” for Chiropractors:
https://www.theinformedchiropractor.com/introduction-to-chiropractic-through-a-polyvagal-lens
The Informed Chiropractor: The next two pelvic floor seminars will be in Denver September 26th and in Perth, Australia Feb 20th, 2027
https://www.theinformedchiropractor.com/
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The Informed Chiropractor Podcast with Dr. Don MacDonald
What if one of the biggest missing pieces in chiropractic isn't another adjustment technique—but an area of the body most of us were never taught how to assess?
In this episode, I share one of the biggest clinical breakthroughs we've had over the past year: integrating pelvic floor work into the MacDonald Safety Corridor Protocol through a polyvagal lens.
What started as one practice member with a prolapse and an ovarian tumor opened the door to an entirely new understanding of how the pelvic floor influences nervous system regulation, posture, movement, hip function, breathing, and overall health. Since then, we've taught this protocol to chiropractors around the world and the feedback has been incredible.
I also shift gears in the second half of the episode to discuss the three biggest challenges we're seeing while coaching chiropractors internationally—and why success today has less to do with learning another strategy and more to do with knowing where to focus.
If you've ever felt like there's a gap in your clinical toolbox—or your practice feels busy but unfocused—this episode is for you.
In This Episode, You'll Learn* Why has the pelvic floor become such an important part of our clinical work * How the pelvic floor influences nervous system regulation through a polyvagal perspective * The relationship between fascia, mechanoreceptors, posture and movement * Why chronic hip, low back, and rib problems often have an overlooked pelvic floor component * Clinical stories showing changes in prolapse symptoms, bladder urgency and hip function * Why restoring movement—not simply strengthening—is often the missing piece * The importance of informed consent and creating safety when working with sensitive areas * The three biggest obstacles chiropractors are facing today * Why too many strategies are creating overwhelm instead of growth * How identifying your current "season" of practice changes everything * Why understanding your natural Working Genius can reduce burnout and improve practice satisfaction * A preview of our upcoming UNMastermind experience in Lisbon
Key TakeawaysOne of the biggest lessons we've learned is that regulation isn't just about adjusting the spine.
The nervous system constantly gathers information from every part of the body. When tissues lose movement, the brain loses quality information. By restoring ease and movement—especially through the pelvic floor—we often see improvements that extend far beyond the pelvis itself.
We also believe chiropractors don't need more information.
Most need more clarity.
Knowing what season you're in, focusing on the few things that matter most, and working within your natural strengths creates far more momentum than chasing every new strategy that appears online.
📖 Related Article
https://drdonmacdonald.com/pelvic-floor-and-polyvagal-chiropractic/
Resources * MacDonald Safety Corridor Protocol * Polyvagal Theory for Chiropractors * Nervous System Regulation * Vagus Nerve and Chiropractic Care * Pelvic Floor and Polyvagal Chiropractic
Learn more at: drdonmacdonald.com
Join us in Calgary or Toronto by visiting our website https://www.theinformedchiropractor.com/
Join The Informed Chiropractor mentorship waitlist: https://www.theinformedchiropractor.com/the-informed-chiropractor
Free “Intro to the Polyvagal Lens” (for Chiropractors):
https://www.theinformedchiropractor.com/introduction-to-chiropractic-through-a-polyvagal-lens
We just made the top 10 Podcasts on Polyvagal theory. Check it out, we are number 2
https://www.millionpodcasts.com/polyvagal-therapy-podcasts
Today I’m sharing everything I’ve learned over the last few months, including 5 crucial pillars for changing patient outcomes. I’ve been attending seminars and speaking across more than 52 time zones, while keeping busy with the process of handing off the practice over the next nine months to our young Docs. From recent podcast guests to speaking events in Australia, Windsor, and Calgary, here are the top takeaways on chiropractic care I’ve been reflecting on.
In this episode:
- What we’ve been up to since the last episode aired.
- What made the previous episode with Heidi Haavik so great?
- The importance of using objective measurements in chiropractic care.
- What I spoke about in Australia recently and why it matters.
- Why the time frame of chiropractic care makes a significant difference in outcomes.
- How movement acts as a summer switch, and why we need optimal movement.
- How mapping and helping a body identify its position in space are so critical.
- The way our nervous systems are wired to be in a protective state.
- How supporting a state of ease in the global system actually changes lives.
- What is the goal of initial chiropractic care for dysregulated people?
- What the “window of tolerance” is and how you can increase it.
- Where we went in Australia and what made it an especially exciting visit.
- How the Calgary event brought chiropractors together in a positive and impactful way.
- Why opening more chiropractic schools is so important, especially now.
- What we have planned for the summer, including ways you can get involved.
📖 Related Article
https://drdonmacdonald.com/polyvagal-chiropractic-the-5-pillars-that-change-patient-outcomes/
Join us in Calgary or Toronto by visiting our website https://www.theinformedchiropractor.com/
Join The Informed Chiropractor mentorship waitlist: https://www.theinformedchiropractor.com/the-informed-chiropractor
Free “Intro to the Polyvagal Lens” (for Chiropractors):
https://www.theinformedchiropractor.com/introduction-to-chiropractic-through-a-polyvagal-lens
We just made the top 10 Podcasts on Polyvagal theory. Check it out, we are number 2
https://www.millionpodcasts.com/polyvagal-therapy-podcasts
Dr. Heidi Haavik is back on the podcast for the second time in today’s episode. With a PhD in neurophysiology, Dr. Haavik is one of the most renowned researchers in chiropractic and is also the Founder of Haavik Research. During the episode, she discusses the latest research in chiropractic (including the most cutting-edge studies), how the research is catching up with the long-appreciated benefits of chiropractic care, and why it’s such an incredible time to be in this industry.
In this episode:
- How chiropractic care changes the brain through nervous system safety.
- What is now being measured in real time and how it impacts the patient experience.
- How touch supports the body in learning to be in a regulatory state.
- What your team can do to support patients so they feel seen and heard.
- What the recent research is saying about chiropractic and the immune system.
- Why it’s such an exciting time to be a chiropractor right now.
- How our bodies protect us from overwhelming stress (and how chiropractic helps).
- How an adjustment can impact the salience network depending on your state.
- Why some chiropractors might refuse to embrace this model of care.
- The ways Dr. Haavik’s perspective on chiropractic has changed over time.
- The limiting beliefs prevalent in the industry and how they’re shifting now.
- How the positive outcomes of an adjustment are being strengthened through research.
- The difference that regular, long-term chiropractic care can make (versus intermittent).
- The cutting edge research bio-engineers are doing right now related to muscle testing.
- Ideal changes that could be made to the way patient records are handled today.
📖 Related Article
https://drdonmacdonald.com/chiropractic-brain-research-with-dr-heidi-haavik-polyvagal-theory-nervous-system-insights/
Donate to the NZCC Research Centre to support the actual research being done: https://chiropractic.ac.nz/research/support-our-research
Heidi’s upcoming online masterclass on the latest chiro-neuro-immune connection (will be recorded in case you cannot make the live session): https://heidihaavik.com/masterclass
Heidi’s online resource libraries (both for chiropractors who want to learn the science, and for your patients/practice members): https://chiroshub.com
Join The Informed Chiropractor mentorship waitlist: https://www.theinformedchiropractor.com/the-informed-chiropractor
Free “Intro to the Polyvagal Lens” (for Chiropractors):
https://www.theinformedchiropractor.com/introduction-to-chiropractic-through-a-polyvagal-lens
In this episode our guest is The CEO and President of the Australian Chiropractic College (ACC), Dr. Patrick Sim. There’s so much more to chiropractic than the practice: there’s also philosophy, politics, and core values. In this episode, Dr. Sim gives his unique view of the chiropractic industry through the lens of his knowledge and experiences in these specific areas. He also lets us in on what to expect at the upcoming Concordia 2026 event in Australia.
In this episode:
- How the philosophy of chiropractic care resonated with and influenced Dr. Sim early on.
- What inspired him to get into the political side of chiropractic practice and why it matters.
- How the political side of chiropractic impacts chiropractors (whether they acknowledge it or not).
- What it really takes to reach your next level and to experience growth in business and life.
- Why having an association to protect the public is important in this industry.
- The uniquely broad view Dr. Sim has of the chiropractic industry and what it allows him to see.
- What happened when he realized he did something wrong with regard to the values of chiropractic care.
- The people who joined on the academic journey with Dr. Sim immediately.
- The milestones they’ve met at their school thus far (in just a few short years).
- How many students they take in every year and the significance of it.
📖 Related Article
https://drdonmacdonald.com/australian-chiropractic-college-podcast-dr-patrick-sim/
Join The Informed Chiropractor mentorship waitlist: https://www.theinformedchiropractor.com/the-informed-chiropractor
Free “Intro to the Polyvagal Lens” (for Chiropractors):
https://www.theinformedchiropractor.com/introduction-to-chiropractic-through-a-polyvagal-lens
Register for Concordia 2026: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/concordia-2026-you-havent-come-this-far-to-only-come-this-far-tickets-1318294627719
Australian Chiropractic College: https://acc.sa.edu.au/
In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Peter Kevorkian as he walks through how chiropractic technique develops over time and why analysis matters as much as force. He explains how his background shaped his early focus, what led him to study many systems, and how indicators guide decisions in real moments. He talks about nerves, biomechanics, and how different models look at the same spine. He also explores when not to adjust, how timing changes outcomes, and why connection between two people affects results.
In this episode:
- Dr. Kevorkian’s head start on chiropractic through engineering, measurements, angles, and biomechanical reasoning.
- What drew Dr. Kevorkian’s attention toward upper cervical work and indicator-based adjusting approaches.
- How exposure to non-biomechanical methods expanded his understanding beyond structural models.
- The influence of SOT and algorithm-driven indicators on clinical decision processes.
- How meeting Dr. Donny Epstein reframed technique as relationship and nervous system engagement.
- Why technique became viewed to Dr. Kevorkian as a best-guess application of force.
- The distinction between biomechanical change priorities and neurophysiological change priorities.
- How every chiropractic technique reflects a defined analytical window and force strategy.
- The shift within education toward force application over analytical development.
- What artistry in adjusting looks like beyond rigid protocol execution.
- How experience, repetition, and body awareness shape adjusting proficiency over time.
- The limits of technology and data in replacing human connection during care.
- Plans for campus partnerships, relocation, and expanded educational sites.
📖 Related Article
https://drdonmacdonald.com/how-chiropractic-adjusting-techniques-evolved/
The WAVE Chiropractic Conference: https://wave.lifewest.edu
Join The Informed Chiropractor mentorship waitlist: https://www.theinformedchiropractor.com/the-informed-chiropractor
Free “Intro to the Polyvagal Lens” (for Chiropractors):
https://www.theinformedchiropractor.com/introduction-to-chiropractic-through-a-polyvagal-lens
I take some time in this episode to reflect on what took place in 2025 and give insight on why planning for the future often starts with knowing what to let go of. I get into why practitioner health directly impacts clinical outcomes, and how new approaches to pelvic floor and shoulder care are providing impressive results in practice. We’ll walk through real clinical observations, unexpected connections, and why regulation matters more than technique alone to set you up for success in 2026.
In this episode:
- The importance of year-end reflection before setting meaningful clinical and personal targets.
- Why stopping unhelpful habits creates space for growth and better professional focus.
- My motivation behind creating a health-focused experience for chiropractors.
- How practitioner vitality directly influences resilience, energy, and patient outcomes.
- The introduction of a new pelvic floor and shoulder-focused educational protocol.
- What clinical observations revealed about pelvic floor tension and organ support.
- How restoring pelvic floor elasticity influences bladder function and prolapse patterns.
- A trampoline analogy to explain force distribution and muscular efficiency in the pelvis.
- Why pelvic alignment affects low back pain, nerve irritation, and adjustment retention.
- How sacral and pelvic nerve pathways relate to leg symptoms and sensory changes.
- The connection between pelvic musculature, adductors, and medial knee stress.
- The role of fascial systems in shoulder imbalance and chronic protective tension.
- Why post-adjustment soft tissue input enhances regulation and neurological safety.
📖 Related Article
https://drdonmacdonald.com/pelvic-floor-chiropractic/
Join The Informed Chiropractor mentorship waitlist: https://www.theinformedchiropractor.com/the-informed-chiropractor
Free “Intro to the Polyvagal Lens” (for Chiropractors):
https://www.theinformedchiropractor.com/introduction-to-chiropractic-through-a-polyvagal-lens
Dr. Brian McAulay, President of Life University, is with us today to explore his inspiring journey of becoming a transformative leader in chiropractic education. We hear about his career evolution, highlighting his tenure at Parker University. Dr. McAulay shares his vision for the future, emphasizing the need for collaborative innovation to reduce educational costs and promote chiropractic as a unified career path.
📖 Read the companion article:
The Future of Chiropractic: Innovation, Leadership and Education
https://drdonmacdonald.com/the-future-of-chiropractic-innovation-leadership-and-education/
In this episode:
• Why a business project sparked Dr. McAulay's passion for holistic chiropractic care.
• How Dr. McAulay built long-term professional relationships within the chiropractic community.
• Why Dr. McAulay is committed to Life University's innovative culture and mission.
• How inefficiencies in independent infrastructures challenge chiropractic education institutions.
• Why Dr. McAulay advocates for resource-sharing to reduce costs and student debt.
• Why the "lasting purpose" and "loving service" philosophies guide the chiropractic community.
• How Dr. McAulay emphasizes the importance of collaboration for mutual benefit.
• Why chiropractic education must maintain core values amidst diverse educational influences.
• How the NFL's approach to collective success can inspire the chiropractic profession.
• How Life University's campus honors chiropractic pioneers and inspires future practitioners.
• Why affordability remains a significant issue in chiropractic education, especially in the United States.
The Informed Chiropractor Super Conference — Toronto, Dec 6:
https://www.theinformedchiropractor.com/toronto
Join The Informed Chiropractor mentorship waitlist:
https://www.theinformedchiropractor.com/the-informed-chiropractor
Free "Intro to the Polyvagal Lens" (for Chiropractors):
https://www.theinformedchiropractor.com/introduction-to-chiropractic-through-a-polyvagal-lens
Related Reading:
📖 The Future of Chiropractic: Innovation, Leadership and Education
https://drdonmacdonald.com/the-future-of-chiropractic-innovation-leadership-and-education/
📖 Polyvagal Theory for Chiropractors
https://drdonmacdonald.com/polyvagal-theory-for-chiropractors/
📖 Nervous System Regulation
https://drdonmacdonald.com/nervous-system-regulation/
📖 Chiropractic Communication
https://drdonmacdonald.com/chiropractic-communication/
Today, Dr. Don MacDonald explores one of the most talked-about topics in modern health and neuroscience: the vagus nerve and its role in nervous system regulation.
Drawing on insights shared at the CNAC Conference in Toronto, Dr. Don explains why chiropractors are uniquely positioned to help patients better understand the connection between the brain, body, stress, healing, and adaptability. Through the lens of Polyvagal Theory, this episode explores how movement, breathing, connection, and chiropractic care may influence a person's ability to regulate and recover.
As public interest in the vagus nerve continues to grow, chiropractors have an opportunity to provide meaningful education that bridges science, patient experience, and clinical care.
In This Episode* What the vagus nerve actually does * Why Polyvagal Theory is changing healthcare conversations * How nervous system regulation influences healing and recovery * Why social connection is a biological need * The relationship between chiropractic care and vagal function * How movement and breathing influence regulation * Why patients are increasingly searching for vagus nerve information * The connection between stress, anxiety, sleep, and nervous system function * Why chiropractors should become educators in the nervous system space * How a regulated nervous system supports resilience and wellbeing
Related ArticleRead the companion article:
👉 The Vagus Nerve and Nervous System Regulation
https://drdonmacdonald.com/the-vagus-nerve-and-nervous-system-regulation/
This article expands on the concepts discussed in this episode, including Polyvagal Theory, nervous system regulation, vagus nerve function, and practical applications for chiropractors.
Resources MentionedThe Informed Chiropractor Super Conferencehttps://www.theinformedchiropractor.com/toronto
Join The Informed Chiropractor Mentorship Waitlisthttps://www.theinformedchiropractor.com/the-informed-chiropractor
Free Intro to the Polyvagal Lens (For Chiropractors)https://www.theinformedchiropractor.com/introduction-to-chiropractic-through-a-polyvagal-lens
Episode DescriptionIn this episode of The Informed Chiropractor Podcast, Dr. Don MacDonald is joined by Dr. Kelly-Jane McLaughlin, a chiropractor from Carlisle, England, whose work focuses on pregnancy chiropractic care, pediatric chiropractic, family wellness, and practitioner development.
Dr. Kelly shares her unique journey into chiropractic, her experiences working with professional rugby teams, and the lessons she has learned building a successful family-centered chiropractic practice. Together, they discuss the growing importance of pregnancy and pediatric chiropractic care, mentorship, communication, continuing education, and creating sustainable success in practice.
Whether you're a chiropractor interested in serving more families, supporting pregnant patients, or improving your professional growth, this conversation offers practical insights and inspiration.
In This Episode* How Dr. Kelly-Jane McLaughlin discovered chiropractic * Why pregnancy and pediatric chiropractic continue to grow worldwide * The benefits of family-centered chiropractic care * The role of mentorship in professional development * Balancing chiropractic practice and family life * Working successfully alongside your spouse in business * Understanding modern challenges facing expectant mothers * Dr. McLaughlin's perspective on C-section rates and patient education * Why simplifying clinical communication improves patient outcomes * The importance of lifelong learning and professional growth * Building confidence through education and community
Related Article📖 Continue Reading:
Pregnancy and Pediatric Chiropractic: Lessons from Dr. Kelly-Jane McLaughlin
https://drdonmacdonald.com/pregnancy-and-pediatric-chiropractic/
This companion article expands on the topics discussed in this episode, including pregnancy chiropractic care, pediatric chiropractic, family wellness, mentorship, and building a thriving chiropractic practice.
Resources MentionedHayley & Kelly
https://www.hayleyandkelly.co.uk/
The Informed Chiropractor Super Conference
https://www.theinformedchiropractor.com/toronto
Join The Informed Chiropractor Mentorship Waitlist
https://www.theinformedchiropractor.com/the-informed-chiropractor
Free Intro to the Polyvagal Lens (For Chiropractors)
https://www.theinformedchiropractor.com/introduction-to-chiropractic-through-a-polyvagal-lens
Today, I’m taking a closer look at the importance of understanding inflammation in modern chiropractic care. Join me as I explore how inflammation affects cognitive health, drawing on insights I’ve gained from experts like Dan Murphy and JP Errico. I’ll unravel the complex interplay between the vagus nerve and the body's inflammatory response, emphasizing the significance of vagal tone in achieving physiological balance.
In this episode:
- Understanding the role of the vagus nerve is crucial in addressing inflammation and providing effective patient care.
- How electrical stimulation techniques are being explored for activating the vagus nerve.
- How the polyvagal theory and societal dopamine addiction impact the effectiveness of healing practices.
- How inflammation and vagal tone influence the body's stress response and overall health.
- What the inflammatory cascade bell curve is and why it’s so important.
- Why macrophages and microglia are vital in brain development and maintaining cognitive health.
- How autophagy and fasting contribute to reducing inflammation and supporting brain function.
- The four main jobs of the microglia cells when the body is in a non-inflamed state
- Maintaining low inflammation for the child's brain development and preventing cognitive decline.
- How gene-editing research in China revealed links between reduced inflammation and accelerated brain development.
- Why social connections and mental activity are essential in preventing dementia and maintaining cognitive health.
The Informed Chiropractor Super Conference — Toronto, Dec 6: https://www.theinformedchiropractor.com/toronto
Join The Informed Chiropractor mentorship waitlist: https://www.theinformedchiropractor.com/the-informed-chiropractor
Free “Intro to the Polyvagal Lens” (for Chiropractors):
https://www.theinformedchiropractor.com/introduction-to-chiropractic-through-a-polyvagal-lens
To book an appointment with Dr. Don MacDonald in Edmonton, Alberta, visit
https://www.edmontonchirosouthside.com/
Dr. Peter Amlinger, a seasoned chiropractor with 40 years of experience, is alongside Dr. Don in this episode. We examine the evolution of chiropractic practice, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and adaptability in communication with patients. Dr. Amlinger shares his journey from reductionistic to creationistic care, and highlights the significance of being genuine. We explore the role of resilience and community in personal and professional growth, and Dr. Amlinger gives us the details about his upcoming appearance at the Pure and Powerful chiropractic conference.
In this episode:
- Why understanding diverse perspectives in chiropractic care is crucial for effective patient communication.
- The six levels of practice that Dr. Amlinger has identified, and how this knowledge enhances patient outcomes and adaptability.
- An analogy of how personal growth parallels in music relate to authentic chiropractic practice.
- How genuine communication bridges gaps and fosters alignment within chiropractic teams.
- Why sharing stories of resilience is important in navigating life's challenges.
- Why Dr. Amlinger's spontaneous speaking style adds a personal touch to his presentations.
- How different lenses impact chiropractors' and patients' views on chiropractic care.
- Why linking chiropractic principles to patient experiences is essential for holistic care.
- Why consistent mission alignment is necessary for authentic chiropractic practice environments.
- How openness about personal challenges can strengthen connections with patients and colleagues.
- Why ongoing personal and professional development is vital for long-term inspiration in chiropractic.
- How the Pure and Powerful conference aims to inspire passion and community in chiropractic.
Pure and Powerful — Mississauga, Nov 1: https://pureandpowerful.com
The Informed Chiropractor Super Conference — Toronto, Dec 6: https://www.theinformedchiropractor.com/toronto
Join The Informed Chiropractor mentorship waitlist: https://www.theinformedchiropractor.com/the-informed-chiropractor
Free “Intro to the Polyvagal Lens” (for Chiropractors):
https://www.theinformedchiropractor.com/introduction-to-chiropractic-through-a-polyvagal-lens
Dr. Don sits down with Dr. Kelly Holt, the president of the New Zealand College of Chiropractic, to explore his transformative journey in chiropractic education during the COVID-19 pandemic. We talk about into the innovative integration of wearables and data-driven approaches in chiropractic care, enhancing patient outcomes and community impact. Additionally, we highlight the inspiring story of a chiropractic outreach program in Rarotonga and discuss the upcoming lyceum event in Calgary, focusing on research and innovation in the field.
In this episode:
- Why strategic pivots were necessary to maintain educational standards amid pandemic lockdowns.
- How the college prepares students for effective communication in a post-pandemic world.
- Why integrating wearables and practice-based data is transforming chiropractic care.
- How tracking health markers like heart rate variability enhances patient outcomes.
- Why data-driven approaches boost credibility and confidence in new chiropractors.
- How the chiropractic outreach program in Rarotonga transformed over 2,500 locals' lives.
- Why community outreach initiatives benefit both students and local communities.
- Why supporting the New Zealand College of Chiropractic's Research Foundation is crucial to Dr. Holt.
- How modern chiropractic practices incorporate polyvagal theory for improved nervous system regulation.
- How strategic planning during COVID-19 positioned the college for post-pandemic growth.
- Why increasing chiropractic care utilization in New Zealand is a focus for the college.
- How research advancements at the college are poised to change the chiropractic narrative.
The Informed Chiropractor Super Conference — Toronto, Dec 6: https://www.theinformedchiropractor.com/toronto
Join The Informed Chiropractor mentorship waitlist: https://www.theinformedchiropractor.com/the-informed-chiropractor
Free “Intro to the Polyvagal Lens” (for Chiropractors):
https://www.theinformedchiropractor.com/introduction-to-chiropractic-through-a-polyvagal-lens
After a short summer hiatus, Dr. Don MacDonald returns with a nervous-system-forward reset for the season. We unpack how to balance predictability without stagnation, why co-regulation is your real growth engine, and how to prune distractions so your adjusting gets more focused, consistent, and effective.
What you’ll learn
- Why “boring consistency” (predictable, regulated presence) builds trust and retention
- How polyvagal theory explains connection vs. “going through the motions”
- A fall reset playbook: from unstructured summer to clear routines
- Pruning non-essentials to free up focus and volume
- Training a new grad/locum while preserving flow, priorities, and connection
- Practical co-regulation cues you can use table-side—no scripts
Chapters
0:00 -1:00 Welcome back & why we pause in summer
1:11 -1:20 Predictability vs. stagnation (polyvagal lens)
2:30 -3:50 Seasonal reset: routines, families, and stressors
7:49 - 8:00 Pruning distractions to sharpen adjusting
8:40 - 9:10 Training the new chiropractor & maintaining connection
10:54 - 11:50 September game plan + what’s coming next including "Healing the Chiropractor"
Upcoming on the podcast
- Dr. Kelly Holt (New Zealand College of Chiropractic): research & AI in chiropractic
- Dr. Peter Amlinger: philosophy + nervous-system-forward practice (Toronto Super Conference)
Links & resources
- The Informed Chiropractor Super Conference — Toronto, Dec 6:
https://www.theinformedchiropractor.com/toronto - Join The Informed Chiropractor mentorship waitlist:
https://www.theinformedchiropractor.com/the-informed-chiropractor - Free “Intro to the Polyvagal Lens” (for Chiropractors):
https://www.theinformedchiropractor.com/introduction-to-chiropractic-through-a-polyvagal-lens
If this helped, share it with one chiropractor and follow/subscribe for weekly nervous-system-forward insights.
In this solo episode, Dr. Don MacDonald talks about the powerful connections between chiropractic care, the nervous system, and the polyvagal theory. He shares insights from his recent events, including Level Two of the MacDonald Safety Corridor protocol. He explains how his approach continues to evolve through feedback from chiropractors in both North America and Australia.
Dr. Don explains that when babies are born, they cannot self-regulate. They rely on safe, consistent co-regulators, typically a parent, to help develop the part of the nervous system responsible for calmness, connection, and resilience. If someone never had this kind of safety growing up, they may struggle to regulate their nervous system as adults. Interesting right? Chiropractors can unknowingly become the first "safe human" a person encounters, and that has huge implications.
From this lens, he introduces the “Safety Sandwich,” a practical application of polyvagal theory in chiropractic. It’s not a technique on its own, but a way to enhance any technique by placing it inside a regulated, neurologically safe experience. The sandwich begins before the adjustment with tone, environment, posture, and presence, and ends after the thrust, with a calming decompression or breath-based close.
He talked about:
- Your nervous system state changes patient outcomes. Stressed? Your "threat vibes" dilute adjustments.
- Safety vs comfort zones. Push 5% beyond your comfort zone to grow, but stay regulated (like an athlete in "the zone").
He reminds listeners that the Macdonald Safety Corridor is continuously evolving based on practice experience and feedback from real chiropractors. There are more seminars ahead, including one in Amsterdam on September 6th and the Informed Chiropractor Super Conference in Toronto this December.
If you are curious about how the polyvagal theory directly supports and elevates chiropractic work, you can now access a free one-hour intro course on the homepage at theinformedchiropractor.com.
This episode is a powerful reminder that the body doesn’t just respond to what you do, it responds to how you do it. Go watch the video yourself. You will never look at adjusting the same way again.
Audio Timestamp
0:00 -1:12: Development of Co-Regulation and Ventral Vagal System
1:12 - 2:59: Introduction to the Podcast Episode
2:59 - 8:18: The Safety Sandwich and Polyvagal Theory
8:18 - 12:54: Advanced Techniques and Feedback from Chiropractors
12:54 - 14:36: Upcoming Events and Resources
14:36 - 19:10: Co-Regulation and Self-Regulation in Chiropractic Care
19:10 - 21:35: Safety vs. Comfort Zone
21:35 - 23:49: Final Thoughts and Encouragement
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ChiropracticCare #NervousSystemHealing #ChiropracticSuccess #PolyvagalTheory #Chiropractor #Chiropractors #ChronicIllnessWarrior #MindBodyConnection #Medicine #ChiropracticSuccess #ChiropracticCare #PracticeGrowth #ChiropracticMentorship #Pediatricchiropractor #burnout #early intervention. #Viral #Trending #Healthtalks #Healthpodcasts #Health #Healthinterviews #Trends
In this heartfelt and energizing episode of The Informed Chiropractor podcast, Dr. Don Macdonald reconnects with Kyla Butz, a former student intern in his practice and now a rising chiropractic leader preparing to graduate from Palmer College. What starts as a nostalgic catch-up quickly becomes a deep dive into the reality of chiropractic school today, the shift away from vitalism, and the importance of building community, skill, and purpose before stepping into practice.
Kyla shares what it’s really like inside the walls of Palmer, how she went from having zero chiropractic background to falling in love with the philosophy, and why she believes seminars, clubs, and mentorship are the secret weapons of chiropractic success.
We discussed:
- How seminar culture is growing and transforming chiropractic education
- Why early technique training gives students a huge advantage in clinic and post-grad
- What it takes to develop leadership and confidence through adjusting clubs like KTC
- How the polyvagal lens is helping students understand safety, tone, and true patient care
- The power of safe environments from adjusting rooms to classroom culture
- Real stories of mentorship that fuel the next generation of principled chiropractors
Whether you are a student chiropractor, a seasoned doc, or someone wondering what the future of this profession looks like, this episode will fill your tank.
Kyla’s story and experience proves that the next generation of chiropractors isn’t just ready... they are rising with heart, hands, and a vision that goes far beyond the spine.
Go watch the video yourself, this conversation will remind you why you fell in love with chiropractic in the first place.
Audio Timestamp
0:00 - 1:31: Seminars and Student Engagement
1:31 - 5:40: Introduction to the Podcast and Guest
5:40- 10:26: Kyla's Journey to Chiropractic School
10:26 - 14:22: Navigating Chiropractic School and Philosophy
14:22 - 18:30: Kairos Training Culture (KTC) and Personal Growth
18:30 - 20:32: The Importance of Seminars and Community
20:32 -22:51: Challenges and Opportunities in Chiropractic Education
22:51 - 23:05: Preparing for Practice and Future Goals
23:05 - 24:33: The Impact of Chiropractic Education on Personal Development
24:33 - 26:22: Experiences from Level One Seminar
26:22 - 28:41: Implementing Techniques in Practice
28:41 - 30:08: Winning a Scholarship from CNAC
30:08 - 32:08: Importance of Mentorship and Community
32:08 - 35:28: Final Words of Wisdom
You can connect with us on other platforms:
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ChiropracticCare #NervousSystemHealing #ChiropracticSuccess #PolyvagalTheory #Chiropractor #Chiropractors #ChronicIllnessWarrior #MindBodyConnection #Medicine #ChiropracticSuccess #ChiropracticCare #PracticeGrowth #ChiropracticMentorship #Pediatricchiropractor #burnout #early intervention. #Viral #Trending #Healthtalks #Healthpodcasts #Health #Healthinterviews #Babycare
Are you a chiropractor trying to grow your practice but feel overwhelmed by marketing options? In this episode of The Informed Chiropractor, we diversified a little to help practice members, as we talked about modern strategies that actually bring new patients through your doors.
Joined by chiropractic marketing expert Billy Sticker, we explore how short-form video content, office tour videos, and simple FAQ-style reels can build trust and reduce the fear that keeps people from booking their first visit. We also connect this approach to the polyvagal theory, showing how creating a sense of neurological safety can make or break that first impression.
Here is a highlight or a sneak peek into what we talked about.
- Why 40-second vertical videos outperform long intros (and how to make them)
- How platforms like Facebook and Instagram use AI to get your content in front of your ideal patients
- Why an office tour video can help ease the nervous system and increase show-up rates
- The power of creating a pre-visit video library to shorten the report of findings and save your team time
- How real chiropractors have grown from $30k/month to seven-figure practices with simple, authentic content
- New AI tools that answer your phones, qualify leads, and even help you stay HIPAA-compliant
- Why your content doesn’t need to be perfect, it just needs to show who you are
If you have ever asked, “How do I get more chiropractic patients through social media?” or “How do I use AI without losing my mind (or license)?” this episode is for you. With the world evolving, so must our practice too. Whether you are brand new to video or just need a better strategy, this conversation will inspire you to take the first step.
Go watch the episode yourself, and start building trust before a patient ever walks through your doors.
Ready to turn your clinic into a local sensation? Watch the full episode to see Billy’s AI hacks and video tricks in action, Your next viral reel is just one click away
Audio Timestamp
00:00 - 02:14: Introduction to the Informed Chiropractor Podcast
02:14 - 02:45: Billy Sticker's Background and Transition to Chiropractic Marketing
02:45 - 07:23: Evolution of Marketing Services Offered by Chiro Candy
07:23 - 09:14: Tips for Chiropractors on Social Media and Video Marketing
09:14 - 14:36:Advanced Marketing Strategies Using AI and Video
14:36 - 18:27: Differences Between Horizontal and Vertical Videos
18:27 - 21:56: Consistency and Relevance in Posting
21:56 - 23:03: Targeting and AI in Advertising
23:03 - 26:26: Types of Video Content for Chiropractors
26:26 - 28:37: Polyvagal Theory and Neurological Safety
28:37 - 34:06: Pre-Appointment Content and Patient Education
34:06 - 40:12: AI Tools and Automation in Practice
40:12 - 40:35: Balancing AI and Manual Processes
40:35 - 43:18: Chiropractic Marketing Strategies
43:18 - 45:11: Final Thoughts and Encouragement
You can connect with us on other platforms:
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ChiropracticCare #NervousSystemHealing #ChiropracticSuccess #PolyvagalTheory #Chiropractor #Chiropractors #ChronicIllnessWarrior #MindBodyConnection #Medicine #ChiropracticSuccess #ChiropracticCare #PracticeGrowth #ChiropracticMentorship #Pediatricchiropractor #burnout #early intervention. #Viral #Trending #Healthtalks #Healthpodcasts #Health #Healthinterviews #Engagement #Viral #Trends #Trendz
In this episode of The Informed Chiropractor Podcast—the go-to chiropractic podcast for neurologically focused chiropractors—we sit down with Dr. Erina Olsen to explore her journey from a curious 11-year-old in New Zealand to becoming a powerful voice for functional neurology in Ireland. After discovering the power of manual therapy, Dr. Olsen shifted her focus from osteopathy to chiropractic, graduating in the second class of the New Zealand College of Chiropractic. She shares the intense experience of helping the college gain accreditation and how those early challenges shaped her mission.
What started as a temporary locum opportunity turned into 20 years of practice ownership in a country where chiropractic is still unregulated. Dr. Olsen reveals how Polyvagal Theory in chiropractic helped her reframe care through the lens of nervous system regulation, transforming skeptical patients into believers using chiropractic adjusting techniques rooted in safety and connection. This episode dives into what it means to practice neurologically focused chiropractic in a disconnected world, why self-care is critical for chiropractors, and how mentorship plays a key role in long-term impact.
Whether deep into chiropractic mentorship or starting to integrate the nervous system into your adjusting protocols, this conversation is full of gems for functional neurology–minded chiropractors ready to lead the next evolution of care.
Timestamp
0:00 - 02:15 Introduction
2:15 - 07:16: Discovering Chiropractic and Early Career
7:16 - 15:15: Transition to Ireland and Practice Experiences
15:15 - 18:58: Chiropractic in Ireland and Regulatory Challenges
18:58 - 20:57: Introduction to the Vitality Shift and Polyvagal Theory
20:57 - 29:12: Impact of Polyvagal Theory on Practice and Patient Communication
29:12 -32:08 Inspiration and Motivation in Practice
32:08- 38:17: Final Thoughts.
You can connect with us on other platforms:
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ChiropracticCare #NervousSystemHealing #ChiropracticSuccess #PolyvagalTheory #Chiropractor #Chiropractors #ChronicIllnessWarrior #MindBodyConnection #Medicine #ChiropracticSuccess #ChiropracticCare #PracticeGrowth #ChiropracticMentorship #Pediatricchiropractor #burnout #early intervention. #Viral #Trending #Healthtalks #Healthpodcasts #Health #Healthinterviews #Babycare #Joboppurtunitiesinchiropracticcare #Joboppurtunities #Job
Dr. Don MacDonald hosts Dr. Kate Finlayson on this episode of The Informed Chiropractor podcast, where she discusses her journey in chiropractic care with a focus on pediatric practice. Dr. Kate shares how she transitioned from nursing to chiropractic after discovering the profession through YouTube videos and osteopathic treatments. She graduated from Macquarie University in Sydney and began working in Gladstone, Queensland, a coastal town she describes as ideal for her love of nature and smaller communities.
Starting her career during COVID-19 posed challenges, including border closures, but she adapted quickly. Mentored by Ally, a seasoned pediatric chiropractor, Dr. Kate embraced pediatric care, noting how adjusting infants leads to faster, life-changing results compared to adults. She completed a pediatric diploma to deepen her expertise, emphasizing early intervention’s role in shaping health trajectories.
When Ally moved back to Perth, Dr. Kate took over the practice, managing a surge in patients and expanding services to a nearby town. The workload initially led to burnout, but attending a polyvagal theory seminar helped her recognize stress patterns and prioritize self-care through Pilates, dog walks, and breathwork. She also incorporates principles from the MacDonald Safety Corridor Protocol, like co-regulation and visceral techniques, into her adjustments to enhance patient outcomes.
They closed the episode discussing plans to reconnect at an upcoming seminar in Sydney this June, underscoring the value of continuous learning and community in advancing chiropractic care.
Timestamp
0:00 – 14:30: Dr. Kate Finlayson's Journey into Chiropractic
14:30 – 14:48: Discovering Chiropractic and Early Career
14:48 – 15:14: Transition to Practice and Pediatric Focus
15:14 – 15:30: Pediatric Training and Practice Challenges
15:30 – 18:30: Impact of Polyvagal Theory on Practice
18:30- 21:32: Balancing Practice and Personal Life
21:32 - 25:00: Inspiration and Future Goals
You can connect with us on other platforms:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theinformedchiropractor
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/informed_chiropractor/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theInformedChiropractor
ChiropracticCare #NervousSystemHealing #ChiropracticSuccess #PolyvagalTheory #Chiropractor #Chiropractors #ChronicIllnessWarrior #MindBodyConnection #Medicine #ChiropracticSuccess #ChiropracticCare #PracticeGrowth #ChiropracticMentorship #Pediatricchiropractor #burnout #early intervention. #Viral #Trending #Healthtalks #Healthpodcasts #Health #Healthinterviews #Babycare
On today’s episode of the Informed Chiropractor podcast hosted by Dr. Don Macdonald, Dr. Emir Lervy, a chiropractor from Northern Ireland, shares her journey from growing up in a family deeply rooted in holistic health to establishing her practice in 2008. Inspired by her mother’s recovery from sciatica and her brother’s improved sleep through chiropractic care, she pursued studies at the Welsh Institute of Chiropractic. Initially trained in a mechanistic approach, she transitioned to a vitalistic philosophy after rediscovering foundational texts like the “Green Books” and attending seminars emphasizing nervous system resilience. Her practice now blends human care with animal chiropractic, where she adjusts dogs and horses, observing their instinctive post-adjustment responses like yawning and relaxation.
Dr. Emir’s work extends beyond her clinic through community initiatives, such as monthly visits to a local school to adjust teachers. She integrates polyvagal theory to help patients recognize stress signals such as tense shoulders, irritability and teaches techniques like diaphragmatic breathing to build resilience. Emphasizing the importance of presence, she balances clinical work with outdoor activities and mindfulness, advocating for small, daily practices to counteract being overwhelmed. For new chiropractors, she advises confidence, trusting one’s skills, and avoiding perfectionism, urging practitioners to prioritize patient connection over rigid protocols.
Timestamp
0:00 – 6:16: Background of Dr. Emir
6:16 – 6:31: Early Influences and Career Path
6:31 – 8:31: Transition into Practice & Learning Journey
8:31 – 12:00: Chiropractic Techniques and Animal Adjustment
12:00 – 16:48: Polyvagal Theory & Practical Application
16:48 - 21:47: Advise For New Chiropractors
21:47 - 25:07: Final Thoughts
You can connect with us on other platforms:
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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/informed_chiropractor/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theInformedChiropractor
ChiropracticCare #NervousSystemHealing #ChiropracticSuccess #PolyvagalTheory #Chiropractor #Chiropractors #ChronicIllnessWarrior #MindBodyConnection #Medicine #ChiropracticSuccess #ChiropracticCare #PracticeGrowth #ChiropracticMentorship #PolyvagalTheory #ChiropracticPodcast #ChiropracticBusiness #ChiropracticLife #Trends
In this interview with Dr. Ryan Seaman, hosted by Dr. Don Macdonald, he shared his journey from practicing a pain-based model to achieving significant growth in transitioning to a subluxation-based model in Loxton, South Australia. Dr. Ryan purchased a retiring chiropractor’s practice. However, the clinic’s symptom-centered model clashed with his philosophy.
He recalls feeling physically ill during patient consultations, which centered on pain complaints. After abandoning this approach and adopting his neurologically focused model, his practice flourished, increasing patient numbers from 35 to 210 in three weeks. He discussed his transition from civil engineering to chiropractic, influenced by mentors like Craig Foote. Dr. Ryan Seaman highlighted the Australia Spinal Research Foundation's efforts, including funding three major studies this year, a systematic review on X-ray use, and a pediatric research fund.
This interview with Dr. Ryan Seaman reflects the transformative potential of passion and perseverance. Through the ASRF, he champions a future where chiropractic care is recognized not only for pain relief but for its profound impact on overall health. Listeners are urged to support this mission through donations, memberships, or by contributing case studies to advance the field.
For more information on the foundation, visit https://spinalresearch.com.au/research/
Audio Time Stamps:
0:00 - 01:09: Dr. Ryan Seaman's Chiropractic Journey and Practice Transformation
01:09 - 04:32: Dr. Ryan Seaman Background
04:32 - 08:48: Challenges and Growth in Chiropractic Practice
08:48 - 13:16: Transition to Leadership in the Australia Spinal Research Foundation.
13:16 - 29:02: Supporting Chiropractic Research and Practice
29:02 - 34:48: Challenges and Opportunities in Chiropractic Research.
34:48 - 35:21: Encouragement and Support for Chiropractic Practitioners.
35:21 - 36:47: Final Thoughts and Inspirations.
You can connect with us on other platforms:
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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/informed_chiropractor/
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ChiropracticCare #NervousSystemHealing #ChiropracticSuccess #PolyvagalTheory #Chiropractor #Chiropractors #ChronicIllnessWarrior #MindBodyConnection #Medicine #ChiropracticSuccess #ChiropracticCare #PracticeGrowth #ChiropracticMentorship #PolyvagalTheory #ChiropracticPodcast #ChiropracticBusiness #ChiropracticLife
In this heartfelt solo episode of The Informed Chiropractor, Dr. Don MacDonald shares the profound personal journey of saying goodbye to Lux, Brandi, and his beloved dog of over 12 years. Through the lens of Dr. Henry Cloud’s book Necessary Endings, Don explores what it truly means to let go, whether that’s a loyal companion, that toxic staff member, a limiting mindset, or an outdated version of ourselves or our practice.
This episode dives deep into five powerful lessons born from grief, reflection, and the wisdom of necessary endings:
- Grief is a sign of deep connection
- Endings are required for new growth.
- The pain of holding on can be greater than the pain of letting go.
- You must grieve the old to welcome the new fully.
- Endings make us more human—and more connected.
Whether you’re a chiropractor navigating change in your practice, re-evaluating systems, or feeling the call for a new season in life, this episode is for you. Dr. Don weaves insights from the Necessary Endings book with reflections on neurological safety, polyvagal theory, and the emotional weight often accompanying growth and evolution.
Sometimes, the very thing we’re holding onto is holding us back. This conversation may be the nudge to create space for the next level of your purpose and practice.
Time Stamps:
0:00 - 08:03: Necessary Endings and New Beginnings.
08:03 - 08:23: Experience from Losing Lux
08:23 - 12:07: Lessons from losing Lux
12:07 - 15:02: Practical applications in Chiropractic Practice.
15:02 - 20:14: Handling Challenges in Relationships and Practice
20:14 - 24:27: Upcoming Events and Program
24:27 - 26:49: Final Thoughts and Encouragement.
You can connect with us on other platforms:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theinformedchiropractor
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/informed_chiropractor/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theInformedChiropractor
ChiropracticCare #NervousSystemHealing #ChiropracticSuccess #PolyvagalTheory #Chiropractor #Chiropractors #ChronicIllnessWarrior #MindBodyConnection #Medicine #ChiropracticSuccess #ChiropracticCare #PracticeGrowth #ChiropracticMentorship #PolyvagalTheory #ChiropracticPodcast #ChiropracticBusiness #ChiropracticLife
In this episode of The Informed Chiropractor, Dr. Don sits down with Dr. Sarah and Dr. Travis, who jointly run a chiropractic practice in Dawson Creek, BC, Canada, to talk about their journey from struggling in practice to finding success and balance. They share real challenges, from financial struggles to rebuilding their practice, offering honest insights that every chiropractor can relate to.
Dr. Sarah opens up about how chiropractic care changed her life as a teenager, while Dr. Travis talks about his leap of faith into the profession. They discuss the early years of practice, the tough decisions they had to make, and how mentorship and mindset shifts helped them break through their limitations.
They break down their “polyvagal theory” hack for calming stressed patients and why adjusting techniques matter more than they thought. Plus, Dr Sarah’s book on vagus nerve care is written for busy families!
Ending Tip: “If what you are doing isn’t working, try something new, even if it scares you.”
Watch now to steal their strategies for turning chaos into growth!
Episode Timestamps:
0:00 - 3:45: Welcome and introduction to the episode
3:45 - 8:20: The early struggles of practice and unexpected setbacks
8:20 - 12:15: How we met and why chiropractic care
12:15 - 18:30: The challenges of chiropractic school and lessons we learned
18:30 - 24:10: Starting our first practice and facing financial difficulties
24:10 - 30:40: Hitting a plateau and struggling to grow our business
30:40 - 37:20: Making a shift
37:20 - 43:15: How Polyvagal Theory changed our approach to patient care
43:15 - 49:30: Rebuilding our practice with a new vision and structure
49:30 - 54:00: Paying off debt, financial breakthroughs, and finding balance
Key Takeaways
✔ Growth comes from challenges, and every chiropractor hits roadblocks along the way
✔ Financial struggles don’t have to define your practice, smart shifts can turn things around
✔ Understanding the nervous system and Polyvagal Theory can improve patient care
✔ Authenticity matters; finding a practice style that feels right makes a big difference
✔ The right mentorship can help you see the gaps in your business and make necessary changes.
You can connect with us on other platforms:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theinformedchiropractor
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/informed_chiropractor/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theInformedChiropractor
ChiropracticCare #NervousSystemHealing #ChiropracticSuccess #PolyvagalTheory #Chiropractor #Chiropractors #ChronicIllnessWarrior #MindBodyConnection #Medicine #ChiropracticSuccess #ChiropracticCare #PracticeGrowth #ChiropracticMentorship #PolyvagalTheory #ChiropracticPodcast #ChiropracticBusiness #ChiropracticLife
HOST: Dr. Don Macdonald
Guest: Dr. Talissa Shekelton
This is a special episode of the Informed Chiropractor podcast. We have Dr. Talissa, who is not only a chiropractor but also a chiropractor’s patient herself. Her chiropractic journey reads like a movie script. She was born with a failing bladder, survived on antibiotics for years, and was misdiagnosed with epilepsy by 12. But here’s the twist: she didn’t just survive. She rewired her broken nervous system, stumbled into chiropractic care while bagging groceries, and now heals hundreds by blending raw science with soul.
In this no-filter chat, she opens the playbook on why safety amplifies every adjustment, how to spot neurological “danger” in a patient’s posture, and why taking your health seriously makes you a better chiropractor. You will hear about burnout breakdowns, ugly crying to mentors, and the exact moment she realized her body wasn’t broken—it was brilliant.
Timestamps:
0:00 – 0:47: Safety First
How Dr. Talissa’s near-death experience shaped her chiropractic philosophy.
0:47 – 3:37: Doctors Said I’d Never Thrive
Surviving childhood illness, chronic fatigue, and medical gaslighting.
3:37 - 6:12: Checkout Aisle Miracle
The life-changing chat with a stranger (and future mentor) while scanning groceries. 🛒
6:12 – 7: 45: Student to Star Associate
Why she took a train to nowhere (and found her dream job).
7:45 –10:34: My First Year Almost Broke Me
Brutal truths about systems, support, and hustling in a tiny clinic.
10:34 – 15:24: Burnout Diaries
worked like I’d die tomorrow… until I almost did.
15:24 – 20:17: Polyvagal Theory Made Simple
How to feel danger in a patient’s body (and flip it off).
20:17 – 20:22: Stop Running, Start Trusting
The adjustment trick that saved her energy (and sanity).
22:22 – 25:24: Finally Leveling Up
Mentorship, ugly crying, and building a practice family.
25:44 –28:42: Lift Heavy, Adjust Better
Why she now deadlifts farmers (and out-adjusts truck drivers)
28:42 – 32:50: Final Pep Talk
Your body isn’t broken; it’s brilliant. Let it heal.
Spoiler: This isn’t just for chiropractors. It’s for anyone who’s ever felt “too damaged” to dream big.
You can connect with us on other platforms:
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YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theInformedChiropractor
ChiropracticCare #NervousSystemHealing #ChiropracticSuccess #PolyvagalTheory #Chiropractor #Chiropractors #ChronicIllnessWarrior #MindBodyConnection #Medicine #Healthpractice
🎙 Host: Dr. Don Macdonald
🎙 Guest: Dr. Rachel Swan
In this episode of The Informed Chiropractor, Dr. Don Macdonald sits down with Dr. Rachel Swan to discuss her journey in chiropractic, the impact of mentorship, and her passion for long-distance walking pilgrimages. She shares insights on personal transformation, the role of the polyvagal theory in practice, and the power of 20 seconds of courage.
The conversation moves to Dr. Swan's origin story, how she got into chiropractic, her mentors, her education, and early career success. There's a discussion about her vitalistic approach before school and her experiences during chiropractic school. She mentions mentors like Dr. Lisa Sheldon and Dr. James Carter. Later, they discuss her decision to open her own practice, her initial challenges, and how she built her patient base. The conversation shifts to her passion for pilgrimage walks, how she got into them, their impact on her life, and her plans to organize group walks.
Dr. Swan shares her experience with the 90-day mentoring program, how it transformed her personally and professionally, and the integration of polyvagal theory into her practice. She mentions the importance of self-trust and interoception. The episode wraps up with advice for chiropractors feeling lost or burnt out, emphasizing courage and finding the right community.
For more informations on our upcoming seminar in sydney in June, check it out here: https://www.theinformedchiropractor.com/australia
Time Stamps / Podcast Episode:
0:00 - 2:16: Introduction & Background
2:16 - 4:09: Mentorship & Early Influences
4:09 - 7:05: Practicing in Australia & Canada
7:05 - 9:46: The Walking Chiropractor: Discovering Pilgrimages
9:46 - 12:04: How Far Do You Walk on a Pilgrimage?
12:04 - 14:55: Chiropractic, Polyvagal Theory & Personal Growth
14:55 - 18:25: Joining The Informed Chiropractor & 90-Day Mentorship
18:25 - 21:55: Words of Wisdom for Chiropractors
21:55 - 23:26: The Role of Courage & Future Pilgrimages
23:26 - 25:00: Closing & Final Thought.
This is a must-watch episode for those aiming for a successful chiropractic practice.
You can connect with us on other platforms:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theinformedchiropractor
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/informed_chiropractor/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theInformedChiropractor
This is another solo episode of The Informed Chiropractor Podcast with Dr. Don, He shares practical advice and strategies to help chiropractors grow their practice and thrive in 2025.
From handling real-life challenges in patient care to building better habits and setting goals, this episode is all about actionable insights to keep your practice ahead of the game. Dr. Don discusses the 2025 90-Day Program, a powerful resource designed to help you elevate your chiropractic practice and achieve meaningful results.He also mentioned the new initiative by Brandi to help women stay fits and better as a unique fitness goal for the year; Body by Brandi.
You can check that out here;
https://www.theinformedchiropractor.com/body-by-brandi
In this episode you will learn:
- Real-life lessons for managing unexpected challenges in practice.
- The impact of your own health habits on patient care.
- Setting resolutions to stay ahead in the chiropractic world.
- The importance of self-integrity and creating boundaries between your life, health nad business.
- How the 2025 90-Day Program can transform your practice.
Show Notes / Podcast Episode:
- 00:00 - 03:01: Intro.
- 03:01 - 07:42: Managing real-life challenges in chiropractic practice.
- 07:42 - 10:25: The importance of focusing on your health habits.
- 10:25 - 12:36: Setting goals and resolutions for your chiropractic business.
- 12:36 - 14:25: Self-integrity and creating boundaries for long-term success.
- 14:25 - 19:04: An introduction to the 2025 90-Day Program.
- 19:04 - 20:15: Outro
Dr. Don’s straightforward approach and actionable tips make this episode a must-listen for chiropractors ready to take their practice to new heights in 2025.
You can connect with us on other platforms:
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In this episode of The Informed Chiropractor, Dr. Ali talks about how her passion for helping children and families shaped her journey into chiropractic care. Inspired by her mother’s life-changing experience with chiropractic, Dr. Ali decided to create that same kind of impact for others.
She shares how her early love for working with kids led her to focus on pediatric care. After graduating from Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College, she opened her Family Health Chiropractic & Wellness practice. She earned additional pediatrics and pregnancy care training through the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA).
Dr. Ali also reflects on her experience with the 90-day mentoring program, The Macdonald Safety Corridor Program which she credits as a major turning point for her practice. It gave her the tools to break records and take her business to new levels, all while staying true to her purpose.
Listen as we discuss:
- How Dr. Ali found her calling in family-focused chiropractic care.
- The importance of pediatric and prenatal training in building trust with families.
- How mentorship helped her grow her practice and confidence.
- Her advice for chiropractors looking to make a lasting impact.
Dr. Ali’s story is a great reminder that when you combine passion and focus, you can make a difference in people’s lives and build a practice that you love.
Episode Highlights:
(00:00 - 03:20): Dr. Ali’s Early Inspiration
(03:20 - 12:00): Building a Pediatric Practice
(12:00 - 21:50): How Mentorship Transformed Her Growth
(21:50- 23: 46): Advice for Staying Focused on Your Goals
📲 Let’s Connect:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theinformedchiropractor
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YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theInformedChiropractor
ChiropracticCare #FamilyHealth #PediatricChiropractic #MentorshipSuccess #InformedChiropractor #PracticeGrowth #ChiropracticJourney #Chiropractic adjustments #chiropracticseminarsUK #brainbasedadjusting #polyvagaltheorychiropractic #MacDonaldSafetyCorridor #cranialadjustments #chiropractictrainingUK #nervoussystemhealth #holisticchiropracticcare #chiropractorworkshops #patientcenteredchiropractic #communityUK #advancedchiropractictechniques #UKchiropracticseminars
In this episode of The Informed Chiropractor, Dr. Don MacDonald explains how strengthening your regulatory reserves supports peak performance in life and practice. Using insights from Polyvagal Theory, Dr. MacDonald shows why a regulated nervous system is key to staying resilient, adaptable, and focused, especially for chiropractors looking to enhance their personal and professional lives.
Through practical advice, Dr. MacDonald emphasizes how keeping your body in a state of “ease” rather than “dis-ease” improves your ability to handle stress and overcome setbacks. Using relatable examples, he shows how even a challenging situation, like a golfer’s bad shot, can be managed smoothly when your regulatory reserves are strong.
Tune in as we cover these 5 powerful strategies to build your regulatory reserves:
- Good Co-regulators: Surround yourself with people who support your goals and well-being. True co-regulators don’t just push you toward success; they help you stay grounded and regulated.
- Mastering Your Finances: Financial stability reduces stress and enables you to focus more fully on your chiropractic practice and life purpose.
- Aligned Business Procedures: Develop strong business protocols that reflect your chiropractic philosophy to minimize daily “drama” and stay in a regulated state.
- Solid Relationships: Relationships should have clear boundaries and mutual respect. Toxic relationships are one of the quickest ways to become dysregulated.
- Connected Movement: Choose exercises that increase body awareness and interoception. Avoid workouts that disconnect you from your body, as this can deplete, rather than build, your regulatory reserves.
Whether looking to become a more effective chiropractor, business owner, or leader, these five methods will help you cultivate resilience, enabling you to perform at a high level without succumbing to burnout or stress. Listen now to transform your practice and life by building a stronger foundation for regulation and resilience.
Episode Timestamps:
(00:00 - 02:03): Regulatory Reserves Explained
(02:03 - 03:15): Regulatory State of the Nervous system.
(03:15 -15:24): 5 Ways to Improve Your Regulatory Reserves for High Performance
(15:24 - 16:19): Upcoming Event
📲 Let’s Connect!
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/theinformedchiropractor Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/informed_chiropractor/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theInformedChiropractor#Chiropractic adjustments #chiropracticseminarsUK #brainbasedadjusting #polyvaga theorychiropractic #MacDonaldSafetyCorridor #cranialadjustments #chiropractictrainingUK #nervoussystemhealth #holisticchiropracticcare #chiropractorworkshops #patientcenteredchiropractic #communityUK #advancedchiropractictechniques #UKchiropracticseminars
In this episode of The Informed Chiropractor, Dr. Nicole Leaderman, an expert in chiropractic care for pregnant women and children joins us to discuss the unique needs and benefits of chiropractic adjustments for pregnant women and children. Dr. Leaderman will join us at our upcoming seminar as a guest teacher, sharing her insights on safe and effective adjustment techniques for expecting mothers and pediatric patients. She also discusses her approach to creating a supportive environment and practical strategies for chiropractors working with these unique patient groups.
Dr. Leaderman also discusses her journey in building a successful chiropractic practice, her essential techniques, and tips for those entering the field. If you're a chiropractor, student, or anyone interested in the benefits of chiropractic care for specialized populations, this episode is packed with actionable insights and practical advice. Whether you're a chiropractor or simply looking to refine your technique, this episode offers valuable knowledge.
To register for our upcoming event.
Visit: https://www.theinformedchiropractor.com
Show Notes
(00:00 - 01:17): Introduction(01:17 - 08:31): Dr. Nicole Leaderman’s Journey and Specialization(08:31 - 12:50): Essential Techniques for Adjusting Pregnant Women
(12:50 - 14:56): Pediatric Chiropractic Care Essentials(14:56 - 22:29): Preparing for the Upcoming Seminar(22:29 - 25:59): Why Regular Adjustments Matter for Chiropractors(25:59 - 26:27): Key Takeaways for Chiropractors(26:27 - 27:35 ): Outro
📲 Let’s Connect! Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/theinformedchiropractor Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/informed_chiropractor/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theInformedChiropractor
In this episode of The Informed Chiropractor
Dr. Don MacDonald shares his transformative MacDonald Safety Corridor Protocol—a method to make chiropractic adjustments neurologically safer and more effective. Joined by Dr. Donald Francis, they explore how this approach can elevate patient care, focusing on creating a welcoming practice, co-regulating with patients, and understanding the deeper connections between the brain and body.
They talked about the power of advanced techniques like cranial adjustments and discussed why the Safety Corridor is essential for every chiropractor who aims to build trust and deliver precision care. If you’re a chiropractor looking to enhance your practice, this episode is packed with valuable insights, real-world examples, and upcoming seminar opportunities that will guide you toward mastering this innovative protocol.
Dr. Donald dives deep into how targeting the nervous system can create profound results in patient outcomes, and how this method helps chiropractors make a lasting impact on the health and well-being of their communities. Learn how brain-based chiropractic adjusts subluxations and taps into the body’s innate ability to heal, elevate, and thrive. Don’t miss out—your next breakthrough in chiropractic care might be just a listen away!
The next seminar coming up in Windsor, UK, on Saturday, November 16th, 2024
https://www.theinformedchiropractor.com/windsor
📈 To find out more about The Informed Chiropractor and join the waitlist click here: https://www.theinformedchiropractor.com/the-informed-chiropractor
Show Notes:
0:00: Introduction
2:39: Catching up with Dr. Donald Francis
Reminiscing about the evolution of chiropractic practices and the changes over the years.
6:39: How the Vitality Shift Podcast Has Helped Others
Exploring stories of chiropractors who have transformed their practices through insights from the Vitality Shift Podcast.
8:43: Understanding How the Body’s Neurological Structure Works
Delving into the intricate connections within the body’s nervous system and why it matters for effective adjustments.
9:52: The Cranial Adjustments Techniques/Methods
Breaking down the methods and benefits of cranial adjustments for improved patient outcomes.
11:38: The Polyvagal Theory Explained
Understanding the role of the polyvagal theory in chiropractic care and its impact on the nervous system.
19:30: Why the MacDonald Safety Corridor
Discussing the importance of this protocol for safer and more precise chiropractic adjustments.
24:57: From Unconscious Incompetent to Conscious Competent
The journey of self-improvement and skill mastery in chiropractic care.
27:20: Talking About Brain-Based Adjusting
A deep dive into brain-based adjusting and how it brings a new level of care to patients.
30:03: Seminars on the Principles of the MacDonald Safety Corridor
Information on upcoming seminars that teach the essential principles of the Safety Corridor for chiropractors.
40:30: A Better Approach to Better Chiropractic Practice
How adopting the MacDonald Safety Corridor Protocol can elevate patient care and satisfaction.
43:08: Upcoming Seminar in the UK
Details on the next seminar in the UK, focusing on hands-on training and best practices.
44:86: Final Notes to Practice Members
Wrapping up with key takeaways for chiropractors and advice for integrating new techniques into practice.
📲 Let’s Connect!
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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/informed_chiropractor/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theInformedChiropractor
ChiropracticCare #MacDonaldSafetyCorridor #ChiropracticPodcast #NervousSystemHealth #ChiropractorTraining #podcast #Trends #UKtrends
Chiropractic adjustments #chiropracticseminarsUK #brainbasedadjusting #polyvaga theorychiropractic #MacDonaldSafetyCorridor #cranialadjustments #chiropractictrainingUK #nervoussystemhealth #holisticchiropracticcare #chiropractorworkshops #patientcenteredchiropractic #communityUK #advancedchiropractictechniques #UKchiropracticseminars
Welcome back to The Informed Chiropractor!
In this episode, Dr. Don MacDonald talks about a game-changing protocol in the chiropractic world—The MacDonald Safety Corridor. This technique is all about making chiropractic adjustments safer, more effective, and consistent across the board. Whether you’re a seasoned chiropractor or just starting, this episode will give you valuable insights on how this approach can improve your practice and patient outcomes. Dr. MacDonald walks us through the three key seminars that chiropractors can attend to master this technique—from foundational skills to advanced applications.
By following these steps, chiropractors can ensure they are delivering safer, smarter care to their patients, which not only boosts patient trust but also enhances long-term practice success. If you’re looking for ways to sharpen your adjusting techniques and make sure every adjustment is in the “safety corridor,” you won’t want to miss this one. Tune in for practical tips, real-life examples, and a clear understanding of how to apply the MacDonald Safety Corridor Protocol in your chiropractic care.
Whether you’re treating athletes or everyday patients, this protocol offers a solid path to improving your practice.
Show Notes:
(00:00) Introduction
Dr. Don MacDonald introduces the MacDonald Safety Corridor Protocol.
(01:75) The Impact of a Welcoming Practice
Creating a comfortable practice environment that fosters patient trust.
(04:15) Co-Regulation: The Chiropractor’s Role
Chiropractor-patient collaboration enhances care and nervous system regulation.
(07:53) Understanding the Six Safety Corridors
Explaining the six critical corridors for ensuring patient safety.
(10:30) The Education Corridor
Chiropractors must continually evolve through education and knowledge expansion.
(12:45) Enhancing Lives One Nervous System at a Time
Optimizing patients’ nervous systems for long-term health and wellbeing.
(16:55) The Interoceptive Corridor: Brain-Body Connection
Exploring the crucial link between the brain and body functions.
(18:10) The Hierarchy of the Nervous System
Breaking down different levels of the nervous system hierarchy.
(19:30) Force Application and Safety
Proper force application in adjustments ensures safety and effectiveness.
(21:01) Upcoming Chiropractic Seminars and The MacDonald Safety Corridor Explained
Details on seminars and comprehensive breakdown of the Safety Corridor Protocol.
📈 To find out more about The Informed Chiropractor and join the waitlist click here: https://www.theinformedchiropractor.com/the-informed-chiropractor
📲 Let’s Connect!
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/theinformedchiropractor
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/informed_chiropractor/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theInformedChiropractor
MacDonaldSafetyCorridor #chiropractic #adjustingtechniques #nervoussystemhierarchy #forceapplication #chiropracticseminars #chiropractic education #chiropractor-patient co-regulation #chiropractic safety #brain-body connection #chiropractors.
In this episode of The Informed Chiropractor, Dr. Don MacDonald welcomes Brandi MacDonald, the visionary behind True Concepts Inc. and True Concepts Seminars, for a special season finale before their summer break. Brandi is well-known for her expertise in chiropractic education and coaching, and today, they tackle the often-undervalued superpower of focus—a crucial element for achieving both personal growth and business success.
As they reflect on their own experiences, Brandi and Don discuss how maintaining focus has transformed their chiropractic business, helped them grow as individuals, and improved their ability to guide others. They dive into topics like time management, delayed gratification, and how staying committed to your core values can lead to long-term results, both in your chiropractic practice and in life.
This relatable conversation gives you practical insights on how to sharpen your focus, balance work with relaxation, and set yourself up for success. Tune in to hear their summer plans and get excited about what’s coming next in September, including the highly anticipated Super Conference in Toronto!
Show Notes:
(00:00): Introduction
(01:24): Evolving Practice Focus and Business Acumen
(03:29): Becoming Your Own Change Agent
(07:03): Focus and Delayed Gratification
(11:06): Time Management and Values
(12:39): Time Study and Value Reflection
(14:46): The Business of Chiropractic
(16:05): The Power of Focus in Business
(22:14): The Importance of Routine and Focus
(24:15): Upcoming Super Conference in Toronto
📈 To find out more about The Informed Chiropractor and join the waitlist click here: https://www.theinformedchiropractor.com/the-informed-chiropractor
📲 Let’s Connect!
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/theinformedchiropractor
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/informed_chiropractor/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheInformedChiropractor
Join Dr. Don MacDonald for a special episode as he welcomes Brandi MacDonald, for a final episode before their summer break.
Brandi, owner of True Concepts Inc. and True Concepts Seminars, is renowned for her transformative work in chiropractic education.
Together, they reflect on recent global events, observations from teaching polyvagal theory, and the profound impact of perceived safety in chiropractic practice.
Brandi shares her perspective on simplifying chiropractic principles and enhancing patient care through innovative approaches.
Tune in as they share their plans for a relaxing summer, promising to return in September with more discussions on chiropractic care and education.
Show Notes:
- (00:00): Introduction
- (02:23): Reflecting on our global events and MacDonald Safety Corridor Protocol
- (04:06): Insights from teaching polyvagal theory to chiropractors
- (08:34): The importance of perceived safety in learning
- (13:59): Bringing the feeling back to chiropractic practice
- (18:15): Gender differences in attraction to safety concepts
- (21:35): The female dominance in polyvagal seminars
- (26:12): Improving public understanding of chiropractic care
- (27:48): The central role of chiropractic adjustment in patient care
- (31:08): Enhancing chiropractic care with polyvagal theory
- (35:52): Upcoming global chiropractic events
- (38:21): A final message to chiropractors
- (41:49): Reflecting on teaching chiropractic techniques
📈 To find out more about The Informed Chiropractor and join the waitlist click here: https://www.theinformedchiropractor.com/the-informed-chiropractor
📲 Let’s Connect!
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/theinformedchiropractor
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YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheInformedChiropractor
In this episode, Dr. Don MacDonald gets interviewed by his friend, Patrick Francey, host of The Everyday Millionaire Podcast.
In this insightful conversation, Don delves into the world of polyvagal theory and chiropractic care, seeking to understand how they intersect and impact stress management and overall well-being.
From exploring the components of polyvagal theory to discussing the essential skills of chiropractic care, this episode offers valuable insights for chiropractors and any health practitioner.
Discover how chiropractic care promotes emotional and physical balance, enhances emotional regulation, and fosters healing through safety cues.
Gain practical tips and advice for prioritizing mental and physical health, understanding trauma, and achieving the goals of chiropractic practice.
Whether you're a chiropractor or simply interested in holistic health, this episode provides a wealth of knowledge to help you navigate stress, promote healing, and optimize your well-being.
Show Notes: * (00:00): Introduction * (04:03): What is polyvagal theory? * (08:12): Three components of polyvagal theory * (12:08): The role of safety in stress and relaxation * (18:23): The four chiropractic essential skills * (22:41): Chiropractic benefits * (26:48): Understanding co-regulation * (32:28): How chiropractic care promotes emotional and physical balance * (35:50): How chiropractors enhance emotional regulation * (39:02): The impact of chiropractic care * (41:52): Three T’s of chiropractic: Thoughts, Toxins and Traumas * (44:33): Prioritizing mental and physical health * (48:16): The role of safety cues in chiropractic healing * (52:31): Connecting with your body and mind * (58:10): Understanding trauma * (01:05:31): The goals of chiropractors * (01:09:30): Tips and advice for chiropractors
To discover more about our events and connect with like-minded professionals:
✅ Official Website: https://www.theinformedchiropractor.com
📲 Let’s Connect!
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thevitalityshift
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/informed_chiropractor/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheInformedChiropractor
In today's episode, we sit down with the esteemed Dr. Peter Kevorkian, a renowned figure in chiropractic care and education.
Dr. Peter shares insights into his recent life changes, including his transition from full-time practice to a leadership role in chiropractic education.
Throughout the discussion, Dr. Peter delves into the core values of chiropractic care, emphasizing the importance of serving patients and nurturing future chiropractors.
He reflects on the impact of his interactions in practice and highlights the joy he finds in serving others.
Dr. Peter shares valuable perspectives on navigating practice transitions, the integration of chiropractic philosophy and application, and the differences between virtual and in-person training.
Dr. Peter's passion for supporting individuals and families to achieve their personal potential shines through as he leaves us with inspiring tips for both practitioners and chiropractic enthusiasts alike.
Join us as we uncover Dr. Peter's journey and the valuable lessons he's
learned along the way.
Show Notes:
- (00:00): Introduction
- (01:29): Dr. Peter's recent life changes
- (03:34): Navigating practice transitions
- (08:53): From practice to educational leadership
- (10:23): Impactful interactions in chiropractic practice
- (12:05): Chiropractic core values: Serving patients and nurturing students
- (13:56): Chiropractic learning: Virtual training vs. in-person training
- (17:33): Integrating chiropractic philosophy and application
- (24:24): Chiropractic perspectives from around the world
- (27:21): Embracing chiropractic's different approach
- (29:41): Finding joy in serving others
- (36:39): Tips for listeners
To discover more about our events and connect with like-minded professionals:
✅ Official Website: https://www.theinformedchiropractor.com
📲 Let’s Connect!
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thevitalityshift
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/informed_chiropractor/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheInformedChiropractor
Dive into the world of chiropractic care with Dr. Martin Lamarre, a veteran chiropractor passionate about promoting a true principled chiropractic lifestyle.
In this episode of The Informed Chiropractor, we explore Dr. Lamarre's journey from chiropractic school to serving on the Montreal Alouettes team as a chiropractor.
Discover insights into chiropractic philosophy, choosing the right school, overcoming doubts, and lessons learned in practice.
Dr. Lamarre shares valuable advice for aspiring chiropractors and discusses integrating polyvagal theory into chiropractic practice.
Join us for an enlightening conversation on embracing the chiropractic lifestyle and enhancing patient care.
Show Notes: * (00:00): Introduction * (02:15): Why did you choose chiropractic care? * (07:45): Exploring chiropractic schools in the U.S. * (10:12): Choosing Logan University for chiropractic studies * (11:10): Overcoming doubts about pursuing chiropractic studies * (14:27): The power of chiropractic philosophy * (19:16): Family ties and life choices * (21:36): Lessons learned in chiropractic practice * (24:31): Becoming the chiropractor for pro football players * (31:25): Enhancing chiropractic practice with polyvagal theory * (35:56): Advice to my 18-year-old self * (38:16): Tips and advice for listeners
To discover more about our events and connect with like-minded professionals:
✅ Official Website: https://www.theinformedchiropractor.com
📲 Let’s Connect!
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thevitalityshift
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/informed_chiropractor/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheInformedChiropractor
Join us on "The Informed Chiropractor" as we delve into the remarkable journey of Dr. Eric Chu, a visionary in the chiropractic field whose work spans continents.
From his initial training and early career decisions to establishing a thriving practice in Hong Kong, Dr. Chu's story is a testament to the power of innovation and determination in healthcare.
Host Dr. Don MacDonald explores Dr. Chu's pioneering approach to chiropractic care, highlighting his integration of traditional techniques with cutting-edge research to enhance patient safety and care outcomes.
Learn how Dr. Chu's commitment to expanding chiropractic practice globally has led him to groundbreaking research and the development of chiropractic education in Asia.
Dr. Chu's expertise and unique perspective have transformed his practice and influenced chiropractic policy and education internationally.
In this episode, Dr. Don MacDonald discusses Dr. Chu's strategic expansions, his research on the safety of chiropractic adjustments, and his influential case studies that have reshaped understanding within the medical community.
Tune in to discover how Dr. Eric Chu is making a global impact, paving the way for future generations of chiropractors and setting new standards in holistic healthcare.
Show Notes:
00:00 - Introduction to Dr. Eric Chu and his global chiropractic journey
05:20 - Examining the chiropractic landscape in Hong Kong
07:15 - Dr. Chu's educational background and early career choices
10:40 - The challenges and triumphs of opening a chiropractic practice abroad
14:50 - Integrating innovative techniques in everyday chiropractic care
18:00 - Insights into Dr. Chu's pivotal safety research in chiropractic practice
21:00 - Highlighting transformative patient cases and their outcomes
23:50 - Expansion strategies for chiropractic practices
29:10 - Managing work-life balance as a chiropractor and entrepreneur
32:00 - Essential advice for emerging chiropractors
35:00 - Looking ahead: The evolving role of chiropractic in global healthcare
To discover more about our events and connect with like-minded professionals:
✅ Official Website: https://www.theinformedchiropractor.com
📲 Let’s Connect!
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thevitalityshift
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/informed_chiropractor/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheInformedChiropractor
In this fun episode of The Informed Chiropractor, Dr. Don MacDonald joins forces with the esteemed Dr. Damien O'Dwyer to explore the fascinating intersection of Chiropractic Neuroscience and their shared experiences as dyslexic chiropractors.
With 19 years under his belt, Dr. O'Dwyer brings a wealth of knowledge from his upbringing in Australia, his PhD studies, and his chiropractic education at the AECC in Bournemouth, UK.
The duo delves into case studies and the latest research, shedding light on how neuroscience is revolutionizing chiropractic techniques and enhancing patient outcomes.
This enlightening discussion not only offers valuable insights for elevating chiropractic practices but also serves as an inspiring testament to overcoming personal challenges within the profession.
Show Notes:
00:00:00 - Discussion on shared dyslexia
00:04:45 - Dr. O'Dwyer's journey from medical research to chiropractic
00:05:11 - Background on growing up in a large, health-focused family in Australia
00:09:04 - Transition from high school to medical research
00:12:16 - Achieving goals and the realization towards becoming a health practitioner
00:14:18 - Encounter with Lindsay Rowe and decision to study chiropractic
00:23:33 - Understanding dyslexia and its impact on learning and professional life
00:29:03 - Realizations from teaching and adapting to dyslexia
00:38:52 - Introduction to the vitality shift and the alignment of chiropractic practice
00:48:32 - Insights from Polyvagal Theory and its practical use in chiropractic
00:52:05 - The importance of sustained ease in chiropractic practice and patient care
To discover more about our events and connect with like-minded professionals:
✅ Official Website: https://www.theinformedchiropractor.com
📲 Let’s Connect!
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thevitalityshift
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/informed_chiropractor/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheInformedChiropractor
In this episode of The Informed Chiropractor, host Dr. Don Macdonald flies over to Germany (virtually) for an insightful interview with Dr. Aileen Hurkett, a passionate and dedicated chiropractor based in the picturesque town of Spire in the Southwest of Germany. Dr. Hurkett, an AECC grad from Bournemouth, UK, in 2015, has been a long standing member of The Informed Chiropractor group and an active participant in several of Dr. Macdonald’s seminars.
Throughout the episode, she shares her unique journey into the chiropractic field, the evolution of her practice from a musculoskeletal to a neurologically focused approach, and the transformative impact of incorporating polyvagal theory into her life and practice. Dr. Hurkett also opens up about a recent personal trauma and how she's used her skills to navigate through it, providing valuable insights and inspiration for chiropractors everywhere.
Show Notes:
00:00 - The making of Dr. Aileen Hurkett
05:20 - Chiropractic landscape in Germany
07:15 - Transitioning to Vitalistic Chiropractic Care
10:40 - Opening a practice in her hometown
14:50 - The role of Polyvagal Theory in practice
18:00 - Handling recent personal trauma
21:00 - Evolution of her chiropractic techniques
23:50 - Incorporating neurology and pediatrics into Practice
29:10 - Managing a practice and family life
32:00 - Advice for chiropractors
35:00 - Resilience, growth, and the future of chiropractic
To discover more about our events and connect with like-minded professionals:
✅ Official Website: https://www.theinformedchiropractor.com
📲 Let’s Connect!
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thevitalityshift
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/informed_chiropractor/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheInformedChiropractor
In this episode of The Informed Chiropractor, host Dr. Don McDonald interviews Dr. Whitney Wihlidal, a seasoned chiropractor with over 24 years of experience practicing in Orillia, Ontario. Dr. Willedahl shares an in-depth look at his career, starting from his initial encounter with chiropractic during his university years, his decision to pursue a chiropractic career, and the subsequent steps that led to him owning a successful practice. Throughout the interview, Dr. Wihlidal emphasizes the importance of community involvement, investing in personal and professional development, and the significant role that applying the polyvagal theory has played in enhancing his chiropractic techniques and patient communication. He also reflects on the learnings from diversifying into property and the strategic decisions that have fueled continuous growth in his practice, ultimately offering valuable insights for both emerging and established chiropractors.
02:46 Dr. Whitney's Journey into Chiropractic
05:53 The Impact of Chiropractic on Health
07:08 Transition to Chiropractic School
10:59 Starting a Chiropractic Practice
14:14 Transitioning to a New Practice Location
16:53 Growing a Chiropractic Practice
17:42 The Power of Community in Chiropractic Practice
17:53 The Importance of Involvement in Local Sports
18:10 The Role of Chiropractic in Family Health
18:19 The Impact of Community Engagement on Patient Acquisition
18:45 The Power of Personal Connection in Chiropractic
19:41 The Value of Face-to-Face Interaction in Chiropractic
20:05 The Evolution of Business Cards in Chiropractic
21:11 The Integration of Polyvagal Theory in Chiropractic
21:28 The Journey of Understanding the Polyvagal Theory
23:32 The Power of Polyvagal Theory in Patient Communication
29:02 The Lessons from Business Ventures Outside Chiropractic
29:30 The Importance of Investing in Yourself as a Chiropractor
35:02 The Power of Chiropractic in Health and Healing
36:15 Closing Thoughts and Reflections
To know more about our upcoming events:
✅ Visit our official website: https://www.theinformedchiropractor.com
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In this episode of the The Informed Chiropractor podcast, host Dr. Don McDonald speaks with Dr. Tanya Chambers, a chiropractor from Ontario. Dr. Chambers discusses her journey into chiropractic, sharing that she was nudged toward the discipline after initially considering pediatrics. She emphasizes the importance of feeling comfortable with one's chiropractor for effective care. She also discusses how she applies the principles of Polyvagal theory to her practice, stressing the vital role of making patients feel safe and comfortable. Dr. Chambers also shares advice for students and chiropractors, suggesting they visit other practitioners' offices to learn and always be themselves, prioritizing self-care and maintaining their passion for their work.
02:50 Dr. Tanya Chambers' Journey into Chiropractic
05:29 Exploring Other Career Paths
07:42 Discovering Chiropractic and Starting Practice
13:27 The Importance of Community Engagement in Practice
17:10 Expanding the Practice and Teamwork
18:26 Working as a Husband-Wife Team in Chiropractic
19:46 Balancing Business and Personal Relationships
20:14 The Challenges of Separating Work and Personal Life
20:50 The Intersection of Passion and Work
21:40 Introduction to the Polyvagal Theory
22:53 Applying the Polyvagal Theory in Practice
23:29 The Art, Science, and Philosophy of Chiropractic
26:46 The Importance of Communication in Chiropractic
31:01 Advice for Chiropractic Students
33:41 Reflections and Advice for Younger Self
35:52 The Importance of Self-Care for Chiropractors
39:28 Closing Thoughts and Final Advice
To know more about our upcoming events:
✅ Visit our official website: https://www.theinformedchiropractor.com
📲 Let’s Connect!
Follow us on
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thevitalityshift
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/informed_chiropractor/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheInformedChiropractor
Website: https://www.theinformedchiropractor.com
After a hiatus, Dr. Don is relaunching the podcast today with a brand new name.
In this solo episode, Dr. Don discusses rebranding from Vitality Shift Podcast for Chiropractors to The Informed Chiropractor and how the principles of chiropractic care can blend with the revolutionary insights of the Polyvagal Theory. He describes how implementing the Polyvagal Theory with chiropractic principles can more profoundly impact patients' nervous systems. He also talks about neuroception and interoception and how they are critical in detecting danger and self-awareness. He explains how chiropractic adjustments and using the MacDonald Safety Corridor Protocol can optimize patient care by aiming to achieve a ventral vagal state where the body heals optimally.
01:20 Rebranding and Evolution of The Informed Chiropractor
01:48 The Vitality Shift and Objective Testing
03:52 Implementing the Polyvagal Theory in Chiropractic
05:41 Understanding the States of the Nervous System
06:59 The Role of Neuroception and Interoception in Chiropractic
08:56 The McDonald Safety Corridor and the Importance of Chiropractic Adjustment
15:33 The Polyvagal Shift and MacDonald Safety Corridor Protocol
17:53 Conclusion and Future Plans for The Informed Chiropractor
To know more about our upcoming events:
✅ Visit our official website: https://www.theinformedchiropractor.com
📲 Let’s Connect!
Follow us on
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thevitalityshift
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/informed_chiropractor/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheInformedChiropractor
Website: https://www.theinformedchiropractor.com
After a short summer hiatus from the podcast, we’re back with a new episode. Today, we’re talking about the polyvagal theory, the two branches of the vagus nerve, the hierarchy of the nervous system, and how increased knowledge on these topics improves the quality of care for practice members.
Our nervous system greatly influences the way we interact with the world, especially socially. As a chiropractor, you can use the polyvagal theory to signal cues of safety and enhance the adjustment experience by quickly helping the body become more regulated—and bringing your client out of a tense, chronic, fight-or-flight state.
Key Takeaways:
- An update on what Dr. Don has been up to since the last episode. [0:42]
- How the polyvagal theory relates to chiropractic work. [1:46]
- Why it’s important to understand the two distinct branches of the vagus nerve. [3:10]
- Understanding the hierarchy of the nervous system in social mammals. [4:40]
- What neuroception is and how it works. [7:18]
- Why the state of one’s nervous system isn’t black and white. [9:09]
- What happens to your social engagement system when you are in fight or flight. [10:08]
- How greater knowledge of nervous system function may alter adjustments. [12:31]
- How a regulated nervous state promotes healthy posture. [14:20]
- Why teaching someone a skill you know innately is actually beneficial to you. [15:18]
- Opportunities to learn more about this that are coming up soon. [16:40]
- How better care can help bring practice members out of a protective, tense state. [18:46]
- Why matching communication style to client needs matters. [19:52]
- What to expect in upcoming episodes and who this information is perfect for. [21:47]
In this podcast episode, Dr. Don Clum, a chiropractor, and functional fitness expert, joins us to discuss his focus on advanced metabolic nutrition, emphasizing insulin resistance. He aims to help individuals with various body system issues, including weight management, diabetes, and cardiac problems.
Dr. Clum provides insight into his nutrition philosophy and the benefits of fasting. He recommends certain foods while advising against others, particularly those containing oxalates. The podcast covers a range of topics, including how fasting affects women's menstrual cycles, tips for coming out of a fast, and strategies for tackling visceral fat.
Dr. Clum also discusses common ways people unknowingly sabotage their weight loss efforts, the importance of intrinsic goals, and factors that influence a person's commitment to their health. To learn more about Dr. Clum's approach, visit the Vitality Shift website.
Key Takeaways:
- The work Dr. Clum is focusing on right now and why. [2:22]
- What happens when you fast, and what the benefits are. [4:28]
- Clum’s stance on plants and where his bias comes from. [6:11]
- What oxalates are and how they act within the body. [8:44]
- The common foods he doesn’t recommend for human consumption. [13:31]
- How fasting impacts women and their monthly cycle. [17:45]
- Tips for coming out of a fast strategically. [21:21]
- The risks that visceral fat presents and how to tackle it. [28:32]
- Common ways people sabotage their fat loss without knowing it. [30:35]
- Why nothing is constant in the body and how it works in cycles. [34:20]
- How cortisol and insulin promote inflammation in your digestive system. [41:00]
- The importance of using intrinsic goals and motivation for dopamine versus food. [44:55]
- What factors influence a person’s commitment to taking action on their health? [46:45]
- The different offer models Dr. Clum has tried and what gets the best response. [49:02]
For more info on the Vitality Shift, visit https://www.thevitalityshift.com/
Join us in this episode as we welcome Dr. Michael Winters, a seasoned chiropractor with over 40 years of practice who owns and operates Winter's Wellness Center in Paducah, Kentucky. Dr. Winters has generously shared his wealth of knowledge on his YouTube channel for over a decade, helping his clients and viewers achieve optimal wellness.During our conversation, Dr. Winters shares his personal story of why he decided to become a chiropractor and reflects on the formative experiences that have shaped his life and career. He also discusses his early marketing tactics, how he discovered quantum neurology, and what helped boost his confidence in his work. Additionally, he explains how learning about the polyvagal theory has enabled him to support his patients better.Throughout the episode, Dr. Winters provides many insightful takeaways, including the importance of continual improvement, the role of mentors in shaping his work, and the impact of growing up on a farm on his work ethic. He also shares an inspiring story about how he was able to help an anxious elderly patient through specific adjustments.Whether you're interested in chiropractic medicine, natural wellness, or simply seeking valuable insights from a seasoned professional, this episode is a must-listen. Join us as we explore the fascinating world of chiropractic medicine with Dr. Michael Winters.
Key Takeaways:
- How his experiences led Dr. Winters to pursue a career in chiropractic. [1:41]
- Why he decided to pivot from education in business. [5:05]
- Winter’s overall experience at Palmer College of Chiropractic. [7:20]
- Why he chose to move to Kentucky. [9:15]
- How his perspective shaped the focus of his work, especially in the early years. [10:59]
- A strange experience he had regarding his newspaper ads. [12:55]
- His mentors influenced his work during his career. [15:09]
- What quantum neurology is and how he was introduced to it. [17:03]
- The vital lesson Dr. Winters learned about confidence. [19:10]
- Why Dr. Winters decided to tap into YouTube videos to support his business. [21:56]
- What the polyvagal theory explains, and why it’s helpful in his practice [24:55]
- How he was able to help an anxious older patient through specific adjustments. [27:20]
- Why continual improvement is vital—and one clear sign you have improved. [28:44]
- An example of how growing up on a farm influenced Dr. Winters’ work ethic. [29:30]
- Why you don’t need to set out to find your purpose. [31:48]
For more info on the Vitality Shift visit https://www.thevitalityshift.com/
We’re welcoming Dr. Tim Young, based in Oklahoma, for this week’s episode. He graduated from chiropractic school 30 years ago and decided to enroll when he was sent home from the Navy after doctors recommended he undergo exploratory back surgery.
Dr. Young talks about his struggles during the early days of his practice and reveals how he overcame them. We’ll also hear about how he started his seminar and coaching group, Focus OKC.
As you will see in this episode, Dr. Tim has a massive drive to help Chiropractors live up to their potential in both live and practice. You will leave this interview with a renewed inspiration for what you do and how you do it.
Key Takeaways:
- What inspired Dr. Young to become a chiropractor. [2:20]
- Mechanism versus vitalism, and which one Dr. Young experienced in school. [7:44]
- What it was like when Dr. Young graduated and why he says he didn’t know anything about success. [9:58]
- A coaching event that Dr. Young was invited to and why it was so impactful. [13:12]
- Is it better to be personally driven or mentor-led? [15:46]
- A time when Dr. Young felt defeated, and what he did to get out of that. [18:54]
- Dr. Young’s morning routine helps him start winning as soon as he wakes up. [21:19]
- What to remember when going through tough times in life, especially regarding your internal dialogue. [27:11]
- Young’s MMA-fighting son and a lesson about not giving up. [29:39]
- How Dr. Young founded the Focus OKC seminar. [30:52]
- What led Dr. Young to begin his coaching group. [35:14]
- Advice that Dr. Young would give to his younger self. [39:29]
- A question you should be asking yourself. [42:47]
- Final words of inspiration for chiropractors. [44:45]
Focus OKC: https://focusokc.com/
For more information on "The Informed Chiropractor," a group mentoring program by Dr. Don and Brandi MacDonald, visit. https://www.thevitalityshift.com/the-informed-chiropractor
Joining Dr. Don today is Dr. David Fletcher, a threepeat guest who is here to dive further into the polyvagal theory and heart rate variability. Dr. Fletcher is a chiropractic pioneer and the tools you can use to help track your patient's inputs and outputs.
The pandemic changed many things, but importantly, it significantly affected the population and their primary autonomic responses. Dr. Fletcher talks us through how his tools track autonomic responses, distinguish between parasympathetic and sympathetic reactions, and interpret data points.
Key Takeaways:
- How things have been for David and his practice during the pandemic. [01:30]
- How people in the industry utilized their strength and knowledge during the pandemic. [02:50]
- Commonalities between chiropractors that succeeded and grew through the pandemic. [03:30]
- How forced immobilization during the pandemic affected people. [06:45]
- Blending technologies to read client inputs and outputs and why it’s important. [08.00]
- The Four Quadrant Model. [08:45]
- Measuring parasympathetic vs. sympathetic reactions. [13:00]
- Working within the rules of the human operating system and reigniting the systems. [18:00]
- Keeping the human system in motion. [20:00]
- Creating a movement to safety. [23:00]
- Why chiropractic is a neuroscience-based on coordination. [25:00]
- About the face/heart connection. [27:00]
- Sifting through inputs and outputs to find useful information. [28:20]
- The Love Cause and Effect. [30:00]
- The physiology of detecting danger. [31:40]
- Creating self-awareness about your body and reactions. [33:20]
- Why chiropractors need to stop living in fear. [35:00]
- Honoring the pioneers of chiropractic advancements. [36:55]
- About autonomic states and how they track on the HRV. [39:00]
- Unraveling uncharacteristic readings. [47:25]
- Words of wisdom. [50:00]
For more information on the Insight Scans, visit https://insightcla.com/
The Informed Chiropractor: Click here for more info
In this episode, Dr. Don MacDonald is pleased to interview Dr. Christopher Kent, who has been a long-time inspiration to him.
Dr. Christopher Kent is a chiropractor and educator. He learned about chiropractic and eventually attended Palmer College of Chiropractic. After graduation, he worked as an intern and eventually became an educator. He met Dr. Patrick Gentempo, and together they created On Purpose, a company focused on helping Chiropractors.
Dr. Kent has a subluxation focus and is interested in quantifying the changes that result from care. He also discusses the polyvagal theory, how the nervous system impacts emotions, and how the pandemic has affected patients worldwide.
In the future, he would like to research the autonomic response and believes that chiropractic care is the perfect solution for the aftereffects of the pandemic. Dr. Kent teaches at Sherman College of Chiropractic and has also worked and learned outside of North America. He shares some parting words of wisdom in the interview.
Key Takeaways:
- How did Dr. Kent end up practicing chiropractic medicine? [02:00]
- Kent’s journey of learning about chiropractic theory. [03:20]
- How the answer to the question “what do chiropractors do?” changed Dr. Kent’s entire career trajectory. [04:15]
- Kent’s experience at Palmer. [07:55]
- How the discipline has changed over the years. [10:40]
- Life after graduation and Dr. Kent’s intern experience. [12:30]
- How Dr. Kent became an educator. [14:00]
- Meeting Dr. Patrick Gentempo and creating On Purpose. [15:30]
- Why Dr. Kent started leaning towards a subluxation focus. [18:35]
- Quantifying changes due to therapy. [19:39]
- Discussing the polyvagal theory, happiness, and how far the effect of it can reach. [22:25]
- The effects of the pandemic on patients. [26:20]
- Areas that Dr. Kent wants to research in the future. [27:00]
- Monitoring the autonomic response. [29:00]
- Why chiropractic medicine is the perfect treatment for the aftereffects of the pandemic. [30:40]
- What Dr. Kent teaches at Sherman. [32:00]
- Kent’s experience working and learning outside of North America. [33:40]
- Parting words of wisdom. [35:50]
On today’s episode, Dr. Don speaks with Dr. Peter Kevorkian for the third time on the podcast. A lot has changed since Dr. Kevorkian last visited the show. This time, he’ll dissect the effects of the pandemic and talk about how we can transition out of it in a healthy way.
Over the last few years, many things have changed for practitioners and patients. How do you navigate the changes personally and professionally? And more importantly, how do you make the needed transitions to continue?
Key Takeaways:
- What it’s been like as practitioners transition out of the pandemic. [01:28]
- 3 things that have got Peter through the pandemic. [02:45]
- How the trauma of COVID-19 has affected everyone. [03:30]
- Why adaptation is necessary and a sign of good mental health. [04:25]
- Understanding that cultural norms may be flawed. [06:00]
- How the pandemic has drastically affected peoples’ physiology and nervous system. [07:00]
- Tip 1: Be aware of what is going on around you and stay awake. [08:15]
- Find the joy in something and hold on to it, create space for it. [11:45]
- Tip 2: Create a safe space to decompress and turn off the fight or flight instinct. [13:00]
- What can you do to create safety in your life, and what did Peter do? [16:15]
- Being conscious of creating a safe space for others in your practice. [17:00]
- Tip 3: Get back into your heart. The world needs love and respect. [22:10]
- Recognize the differences in perspectives and respect them. [23:45]
- Maintaining your own self-care. [26:00]
- What major transitions have Peter and his work been through since the beginning of the pandemic? [29:00]
- Dealing with the passing of a colleague and friend. [30:50]
- Words of wisdom. [36:00]
In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Kevin Holroyd. He practices with his wife, Dr. Susan Holroyd, at their clinic in Kelowna, BC. Kevin was introduced to chiropractic care at a young age—so early that he doesn’t remember his first appointment. From there, chiropractic care played a part in his wellness routine, and eventually, he decided to pursue it as a career.
Kevin will tell us all about a recent personal health challenge and how he’s dealt with his diagnosis. He also shares insight into the tools, technology, and people that helped him through this challenging time. He shares with us his very challenging journey of being diagnosed with cancer and, more importantly, the people he surrounded himself with and what he did that helped him heal.
Key Takeaways:
- How Kevin became interested in chiropractic care in his youth. [2:07]
- Why he decided to pursue a career as a chiropractor. [3:11]
- Where Kevin first began his career. [5:40]
- The health challenge he encountered in February 2020. [9:47]
- The news he learned after his surgery and what happened afterward. [13:58]
- A coincidence that helped him after his diagnosis. [15:30]
- How his diet changed after his diagnosis. [18:50]
- The biggest thing he’s learned through his diagnosis. [20:51]
- How a connection of his sisters was helpful to his situation. [22:15]
- The positive reminder he got after his second dose of immunotherapy. [25:42]
- How his immunotherapy impacted his liver health. [28:31]
- The mental struggles he encountered and how he dealt with them. [30:35]
- The therapy modality Kevin practiced and why it was so powerful. [32:47]
- What going through this experience has taught him. [34:58]
- The significant milestone he passed was in May 2022. [37:59]
- Kevin’s wisdom for other chiropractors who are dealing with their challenges. [40:52]
For more info on the Vitality Shift, visit https://www.thevitalityshift.com/
Dr. Don discusses the numerous training events and methods he has been employing in the last few months in today’s episode. We also hear a clip from a recent Zoom call for doctors in London preparing for an upcoming seminar there.
Brandi joins in to discuss the added complications that the pandemic has caused in patient care and how to adapt to it. They also discuss the basics of polyvagal theory and briefly touch on the challenges practitioners face.
The three parts of the Polyvagal theory covered in this episode are the hierarchy of the nervous system, neuroception, and co-regulation. They are very excited to be producing a 4-week program in the second quarter of 2023 with Dr. Stephen Porges on the clinical application of the polyvagal theory into Chiropractic practice.
Key Takeaways:
- The overview of recent training events and methods. [1.00]
- Brandi discusses the polyvagal theory and the problems that arise from being bombarded with too much information. [2:55]
- Creating an effective and semantically sound communication method for training. [4:00]
- Challenges faced by polyvagal practitioners. [5:36]
- The salutogenic process of chiropractic. [6:25]
- Getting to grips with the polyvagal process and overcoming preconceived notions of healing and pain. [7:00]
- Understanding what a patient’s physiology is telling you and them. [9:20]
- Why Brandi and Don came to the polyvagal theory. [10:40]
- How the pandemic has influenced assessing patients’ trauma and pain. [11:30]
- Understanding the effects of worldwide trauma. [13:00]
- Focusing on chiropractors and their lives. [14:50]
- Your responsibility to self-care. [15:30]
- Decoding how patients have changed through COVID and learning to communicate again. [17:00]
- Your responsibility as a practitioner is to accept your patient’s trauma. [18:45]
- How using the correct language will deepen your communication and connection with patients. [19:15]
- The main concepts of the polyvagal theory. [20:00]
- Understanding safety. [23:00]
- How the nervous systems of children are different. [28:00]
To join Dr. Don and Brandi Macdonald's monthly mentoring group called "The Informed Chiropractor," click below.
https://www.thevitalityshift.com/the-informed-chiropractor
To Join Dr. Don and Brandi in San Fransico on January 14th for the Emergence one-day workshop, click below.
https://www.thevitalityshift.com/offers/S4oB5dNd
To Join Dr. Don and Brandi in Montreal on Saturday, March 11th, for "The MacDonald Safety Corridor Protocol" hands-on workshop, click below
https://www.thevitalityshift.com/offers/FoayJsda
In today’s show, Dr. Don is joined by Dr. Clare Haitsma, a graduate of Palmer College of Chiropractic who has been in practice for 46 years. After chiropractic school, Dr. Haitsma returned to Alberta and practiced for 30 years before retiring to go on church missions.
That retirement didn’t last long, and six years ago, he returned to start a new practice from scratch in Lethbridge, Alberta. It hasn’t been an easy road to rebuild, and there have been many changes along the way, but it’s important to keep focused on your values and the needs of your patients.
Dr. Clare Haitsma is an inspiration to the profession, he shares some of his routines and rituals that help keep him focused and on purpose. Nothing is more inspiring than seeing a Chiropractor in practice that long and still loving to serve people daily.
Key Takeaways:
- How did Dr. Haitsma come to chiropractic medicine? [1:40]
- Why a car accident led to a career path switch. [2:00]
- What studying at Palmer College was like in the 1970s. [4:21]
- Why Palmer was considered an eccentric college. [4:30]
- What was the highlight of attending the school? [6:22]
- Why Dr. Haitsma knew he would come back to Alberta. [7:55]
- How chiropractic medicine evolved during his time in business. [9:00]
- Why Dr. Haitsma retired. [11:08]
- What drove the decision to go on church missions? [11:40]
- Why Dr. Haitsma ended up in Lethbridge.
- What it was like rebuilding a practice from scratch. [13:00]
- Learning to refocus on what mattered in his practice and for his clients. [15:35]
- Overcoming apprehension of creating care plans. [18:00]
- What is the benefit of care plans? [18:45]
- Why it’s important to give patients the choice of their treatment options. [20:40]
- How has Dr. Haitsma’s technique evolved? [22:50]
- What kind of personal rituals does Dr. Haitsma have to maintain focus? [25:35]
- What would Dr. Haitsma tell his younger self? [27:20]
- Words of wisdom. [30:30]
For more information on "The Informed Chiropractor" with Dr. Don and Brandi MacDonald, visit
https://www.thevitalityshift.com/the-informed-chiropractor
Dr. Don is joined by Dr. Julie Darchuk from Saskatoon in this episode. Dr. Julie has been in practice for 6 years and is a graduate of CMCC. Dr. Don and Brandi have been working closely with Dr. Julie over the last year, and he is excited to share her journey today.
Julie takes us through her chiropractic journey, how her dad was her biggest inspiration, and the stress she experience when she suddenly lost him before starting School. Her body stored the trauma she had not dealt with and put it on a shelf for her to push through school. Numbing her grief was the only way for her to cope in the beginning. She then experienced the loss of her brother as well, which added to her grief.
Coaching helped Julie identify and then begin to process grief and trauma in her personal life and a feeling of staleness in her career after having to practice hurt. For those struggling, Julie’s experiences could be the inspiration you may be looking for to help you get back on track.
Key Takeaways:
- How Julie decided to become a Chiropractor. [1:45]
- How Julie managed stress at Chiropractic school in the first year. [4:05]
- What happened after Julie graduated? How did she decide whether to start her practice or work for someone else? [6:50]
- Why it was important for Julie to learn from multiple practitioners in a hands-on way. [9:25]
- Dealing with further family trauma out in the world of work. [10:15]
- What happens when you aren’t fine anymore? [12:00]
- What brought Julie to work with Dr. Don and Brandi? [12:40]
- Learning about the salutogenic model of chiropractic. [14:20]
- Understanding why you want to make the shift. [16:00]
- Julie’s journey through pain and road to recovery. [17:20]
- What helped Julie unpack her trauma over time? [18:35]
- Taking note of the small triumphs. [20:11]
- The impatience of recovery. [21:00]
- About Julie’s journey to clinic owner. [22:10]
- Getting clear about what you want. [24:10]
- What would Julie say to her younger self? [25:20]
- Advice for those struggling. [27:00]
For more information on the Vitality Shift program, visit: https://www.thevitalityshift.com
To get more information about "The Informed Chiropractor" program, visit
https://www.thevitalityshift.com/the-informed-chiropractor
Today, Dr. Don is firing the podcast again after a year-long break. In this episode, he shares what he and Brandi have been up to over the last year and the latest updates on their business. After this updated episode, there will be more interview-style episodes on the way.
Dr. Don dives into practice changes, including their new practice and location. He also talks about their interview with Dr. Stephen Porges about the polyvagal theory on the podcast last year and how that conversation influenced how they approach their practice members.
Key Takeaways:
- What has happened since the new practice opened one year ago. [1:40]
- Moving into a new space and building it from scratch. [2:05]
- The reason why the episode with Dr. Porges changed the way they treat patients. [3:58]
- How learning about polyvagal theory influenced Dr. Don’s thoughts about physiology. [5:11]
- What brought Dr. Porges to create the polyvagal theory. [6:42]
- The brainstem function as a safety or danger detector. [9:08]
- What state your body must be in for optimal physiology to happen? [9:28]
- The benefits of creating sustained ease over a longer period of time. [10:47]
- What it’s been like doing more seminars as the world opens up. [11:50]
- Why all techniques are capable of being successful. [12:24]
- An upcoming beta-run seminar at the new practice. [13:40]
- What Dr. Don and Brandi have been doing over the past year. [14:48]
- The Informed Chiropractor group coaching program supports the business and personal development of chiropractors. [15:15]
- What to expect on the podcast as regular episodes begin again. [17:40]
For more info on the Vitality Shift, visit https://www.thevitalityshift.com/
For more on the Informed Chiropractor program visit https://www.thevitalityshift.com/the-informed-chiropractor
Mike Michalowicz, a threepeat guest and incredible author, is here today. Mike joins us to discuss his new book “Get Different,” marketing that can’t be ignored, and boosting your clinic’s profile post-COVID.
He takes us through the necessity of marketing in unique ways and why it is your responsibility as a service provider to market yourself. With the pandemic continuing to rage, many people are stuck in a fear state. As a chiropractor, you can help them – you just have to let them know you are there.
Key Takeaways:
- A brief overview of Mike’s previous books and new release. [0:48]
- How the Mastermind sessions help to bring about and refine Mike’s ideas. [1:35]
- Where the initial idea for book topics come from. [2:25]
- How Mike crowdsources ideas from the community. [2:45]
- Understanding that we are at the whim of the customers. [3:20]
- Why you have a responsibility to market. [4:40]
- Getting different with your marketing. [6:10]
- Differentiating your services from the white noise. [6:45]
- Why you don’t need to be complicated to be impactful. [9:10]
- Understanding your target community. [10:28]
- Examples of standout marketing from Mike’s career. [10.50]
- Creating online buzz for virtually no cost. [13:15]
- Experiment, measure, amplify, and repeat. [15:00]
- Why we are fear based and how to get around it. [15:15]
- Presenting yourself as a service and offering kindness. [16:50]
- The disadvantage advantage. [17:44]
- Exercises for creative thinking. [19:04]
- Why you should grow, but not grow up. [21:50]
- About the new book, Get Different. [23:00]
- Words of wisdom and inspiration. [24:20]
Get Different: https://www.gogetdifferent.com
For more information on the Vitality Shift program visit: https://www.thevitalityshift.com
Today, Dr. Don is joined by Dr. Stephen Porges, Ph.D. He is a distinguished university scientist at the Kinsey Institute, Founding Director of the Traumatic Stress Research Consortium at Indiana University, Professor of Psychiatry at the University of North Carolina, and proponent of the polyvagal theory. Dr. Porges is with us to discuss the polyvagal theory in detail and how it relates to chiropractic.
Dr. Porges takes us through the beginnings of polyvagal theory and how it can influence bodily function. It’s important to create safety for patients in order to create that vagal response to bring them out of a defensive state. Dr. Don and Dr. Porges discover some of the many similarities between the benefits of Chiropractic care and the Vagal break as described by the polyvagal theory.
Key Takeaways:
- How Dr. Porges describes the polyvagal theory. [5:03]
- What drew Dr. Porges to commit his academic life to this theory. [6:35]
- Descriptions of the sympathetic and parasympathetic systems. [8:31]
- The dorsal vagas and its role as the ‘old vagas’. [9:36]
- How and why the body exits dorsal collapse. [12:02]
- Why we don’t remember trauma. [14:00]
- Navigating defensive states by using vagal activity. [14:53]
- The Safe and Sound Protocol. [17:46]
- The long road to creating a theory of neural modulation. [20:58]
- Returning autonomy to patients through polyvagal manipulation. [22:00]
- How our society keeps us locked in states of defense. [25:00]
- Creating a state of ease through awareness. [27:10]
- Activating the ventral vagal process through neural exercises. [28:00]
- Explaining co-regulation and how it works. [30:16]
- Proprioception through Chiropractic care and improving safety. [34:02]
- Understanding the mind/body relationship and feedback loops. [36:20]
- Why client interaction is key to creating safe spaces. [39:50]
- Alleviating the burden of responsibility and creating bodily awareness in patients. [43:10]
- How Dr. Porges conducts his research. [43:55]
- Case studies of long hauler COVID sufferers and how vagal stimulation can help them. [47:28]
- The importance of self-compassion and self-care for Chiropractors out there. [50:51]
The Polyvagal Institute: https://www.polyvagalinstitue.org
For more info on the Vitality Shift visit https://www.thevitalityshift.com/
On today’s show, Dr. Don is joined by Jake Steiner, a retired stockbroker who has dedicated himself to improving his own and others eyesight through natural methods. Some topics Jake will discuss are how he became interested in natural eyesight improvement and what pseudo-myopia is.
Jake takes us through how he arrived at improving his eyesight through natural methods. Being told he needed to change his eyeglass prescription for the first time since he was a teenager due to genetics didn’t sit right with him. Jake took it upon himself to begin research into the reasons for his vision decline.
With our screen time forever on the increase and eye strain commonplace, more people than ever are experiencing some kind of myopia. During his research, Jake discovered that the answer to reversing myopia could be simple.
Key Takeaways:
- How Jake came to be interested in natural eyesight improvement. [2:15]
- Why Google Scholar is an amazing resource and how to utilize it. [4:29]
- What is pseudo-myopia? [5:19]
- What can you do to ease your ocular muscle strain? [07:09]
- Addressing the causality of the muscle strain. [8:30]
- About lens-induced myopia. [9:25]
- How Jake honed his research and methods. [10:55]
- How Jake’s method grew and spread. [13:00]
- Steps to start the process of ocular muscle improvement. [14:30]
- The timeline to improvement. [19:25]
- How posture can impact your eyesight and vice versa. [21:00]
- How Jake’s body has changed since his vision has improved. [25:07]
- Words of wisdom. [28:40]
Find out more: https://www.endmyopia.com
To get more information on our products visit.
https://www.thevitalityshift.com/
Dr. Don is joined once again by his wife Brandi MacDonald, with whom he co-owns South Side Chiropractic in Edmonton. Brandi is here to discuss 3 frameworks of care, what they are, and how they can be used by Chiropractors in the vitality model.
Brandi takes us through the 3 different frameworks of care, their differences, and their similarities. Trauma-informed care was born out of the Vietnam war to help people with PTSD, and the Polyvagal theory looks at how the nervous system interacts with the environment and salutogenesis.
Looking to the future, Brandi hopes that Chiropractic across the board will adapt a more trauma-conscious way of working with patients. If we looked at a patient as more than just an issue or condition, think of the healing we could accomplish.
Key Takeaways:
- About the 3 different frameworks of care. [1:59]
- Trauma informed care. [3:27]
- The evolution of trauma informed care. [5:50]
- Being a trauma informed practitioner. [10:00]
- The polyvagal theory. [11:23]
- What is the science of safety? [14:20]
- Involuntary responses to trauma. [15:55]
- Creating a state of ease for clients through chiropractic. [16:40]
- How these theories work and benefit chiropractic practice. [18:50]
- Making sense of your body and inhabiting yourself and your body. [20:00]
- Why the future of healthcare hinges on an understanding of humans as a whole being instead of just tissue. [21:10]
- Working to truly understand your clients. [23:30]
- Staying curious to overcome the inflexibility of chiro. [25:30]
- Salutogenesis: Health promotion and drawing on internal strengths. [27:40]
- How the 3 frameworks work together in chiropractic medicine. [31:09]
On today’s show Dr. Don is joined by Dr. Kelly Holt, a returning guest joining us from New Zealand. If you would like to know more about Dr. Kelly, you can listen back to the last time he joined the show in May 2018. Today, Dr. Kelly joins us to discuss how the pandemic has affected him out in New Zealand, what research he has been conducting over the last few years, and where his research is taking him next.
Dr. Kelly takes us through how New Zealand has dealt with the pandemic and how it has impacted both the New Zealand College of Chiropractic and chiropractors at large. Now, Dr. Kelly is looking to the future and planning how practice-based research can help practices in real time.
Key Takeaways:
- An update on how New Zealand is dealing with the pandemic. [2:00]
- How the school has dealt with adapting to the lockdowns. [4:35]
- The silver lining of the pandemic for chiropractic practices. [7:00]
- About the research Dr. Kelly has been conducting in the last few years. [8:18]
- How the research he has been conducting has been helping people. [12:50]
- What research has Dr. Kelly had published since his last visit? [14:45]
- Why Dr. Kelly couldn’t do what he does without funding and how he attained it. [19:35]
- Why Dr. Kelly is excited about creating practice-based research. [25:00]
- The benefits of conducting practice-based research. [29:00]
- What needs to be in place before commencing practice-based studies. [30:40]
- How chiropractors in the field can help support the research centre. [36:30]
- Final words of wisdom. [42:00]
Find out more about the New Zealand Centre for Chiropractic Research: http://research.chiropractic.ac.nz/
Find out more about The Vitality Shift: https://www.thevitalityshift.com
On today’s show, Dr. Don is joined by Dr. John Osborne, co-owner of Osborne Chiropractic with his wife Marie in Tipperary, Ireland. He joins us to discuss the breakthroughs he has been making in his vitality shift and the 3 main internal obstacles he has been able to overcome.
When he began his vitality shift 4 years ago, John was very much a pain-focused Chiropractor. Since he began the program, John has continued his journey for self, and practice, improvement. There’s always more to learn and more ways to improve.
Dr. John takes us through his initial vitality shift and how he has progressed in the 4 years since he started his journey. Since then, he has still felt stuck; like his practice wasn’t growing as it should. John decided to work one on one with Dr. Don and Brandi MacDonald in their 90-day accelerator intensive. John discusses the work he did, most importantly realizing he was his practice’s biggest problem. He Learned to tune into his own feelings and how his body was responding. The results of doing this work have been record-breaking milestone after milestone, he said he felt like he finally took the hand break off his potential.
Once you know yourself, you can truly know your practice.
Key Takeaways:
- Looking for help without knowing what you need. [2:38]
- How John has progressed from his initial vitality shift. [3:43]
- The process of realizing you need help. [6:20]
- Understanding and having realistic expectations for patient progression. [7:15]
- Learning to pick up on the subtleties of individual cases. [10:45]
- Becoming more aware of your own feelings and your own body’s responses. [12:36]
- Overcoming the self-sabotage mindset. [14:00]
- Understanding how your mental state affects how you show up in practice. [17:01]
- Learning to be comfortable with your physiological responses. [19:05]
- Attaching meaning to your goals. [26:52]
- Creating separate identities with a singular purpose in a joint practice. [33:00]
- Advice for identifying your own internal obstacles. [36:13]
Find out more about The Vitality Shift: https://www.thevitalityshift.com
On today’s show, we are welcoming Dr. Don Clum. He is a chiropractor, nutritionist, and speaker. He is here to discuss nutrition, how the body processes hormones, and insulin friendly diet and lifestyle.
For Dr. Clum, being healthy has become proactive by necessity. After spending several years abroad, he and his family returned to America to find an obesity epidemic. That was the starting point of his mission to bring nutrition to the forefront. He goes on to take us through his experiences working abroad and what led him and his family to return to America. Dr. Clum goes on to take us through how insulin and adrenals affect our bodies differently and how they interact. It’s about creating lifestyle changes.
We then hear about common fasting misconceptions and what fasting truly is. It’s important to remember that the body adapts - it’s about changing insulin responses and getting rid of toxic behaviors and habits. Dr. Clum reminds us that there is no one size fits all approach.
Key Takeaways:
- Coming from a family of doctors. [2:38]
- Clum’s time and experience working in Costa Rica and Spain. [6:03]
- How Dr. Clum began operating a virtual practice. [8:35]
- Creating programs for a population health company. [10:00]
- Adapting language to work in a conservative space. [10:50]
- Nutrition for chiropractors. [12:00]
- How insulin and adrenals affect our bodies. [13:20]
- Creating lifestyle programs for individual patients. [16:10]
- What is fasting and how does it work? [18:00]
- Tackling metabolic issues. [27:30]
- Insulin-friendly diet and lifestyle. [34:00]
- What to consider when starting a program. [38:29]
- Do amino acids work as a post-workout strategy? [46:20]
Find Dr. Don Clum on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/don.clum.10
Find out more about The Vitality Shift: https://www.thevitalityshift.com
On today’s show, Dr. Don is once again joined by his wife Brandi MacDonald, who is also co-owner of South Side Chiropractic in Edmonton. Today, Dr. Don and Brandi discuss adapting to your environment, what’s changed in their office since lockdown, and the 3 keys to bouncing back after COVID.
It’s been a year since lockdown began, and now with restrictions lifting, Dr. Don and Brandi agree that it’s a great time to look at what’s next. How are you going to position yourself and your practice to bounce back? It takes adaptability, self-awareness, self-regulation, and keeping distractions at bay to be able to adapt and continue to grow.
Brandi begins by discussing state management and how you can utilize it to adapt to the new way of doing things after lockdown. She goes on to discuss why we get distracted and how to maintain focus, also talking about deliberate practice and how it improves your skills. To end the episode, Dr. Don and Brandi discuss how the people they have been working with over the last year have been implementing the 3 keys and constantly striving for improvement.
Key Takeaways:
- Reflecting on a year since lockdown. [1:45]
- How Brandi has been managing the change of flow in the office. [3:45]
- State management: What is it and how can you utilize it? [9:50]
- Using adversity as your rocket fuel. [20:10]
- The mechanics of focus. [21:49]
- The art of employing deliberate practice. [30:09]
- Words of wisdom and inspiration. [42:22]
Find out more about The Vitality Shift: https://www.thevitalityshift.com
In this episode, Dr. Don is joined by Brandi MacDonald, and today they are discussing how they help chiropractors get unstuck by overcoming trauma.- both for themselves and the people they care for.
Trauma is widely misunderstood, but by becoming more trauma-informed, you can better understand the influence you have (and don’t have) in helping people deal with it. Brandi and Dr. Don talk about state seeking, validation, trauma in chiropractors, and the role of “safety is the treatment” in the polyvagal theory.
Key Takeaways:
- Upcoming dates for Mastermind Rewire. [2:26]
- What trauma is and what it’s really about. [3:55]
- Brandi’s experience as a trauma-informed practitioner. [6:11]
- Who or what determines if a person is traumatized. [7:26]
- How a chiropractic adjustment influences the trauma response. [8:46]
- Why it’s especially important to acknowledge the trauma of this past year. [10:05]
- What happens when we are left in the sympathetic system for too long. [11:20]
- Story-seeking versus state-seeking in your practice. [13:00]
- What the “window of tolerance” is and why it’s important. [16:00]
- What the research says about trauma in the nervous system. [20:25]
- How to use tools like triggers, glimmers, and glows to help with trauma. [23:10]
- How breathwork can help support the nervous system. [29:47]
- The environment they create in their mastermind group and how it relates to the topic of trauma. [31:47]
- Brandi’s words of wisdom going into 2021. [35:41]
- Why you need to get into a state of regulation before making decisions. [38:56]
Find out more about The Vitality Shift: www.thevitalityshift.com
In this episode Dr. Matthew Bortolussi joins Dr. Don to discuss the evolution of his career, including how and why he joined The Vitality Shift.
Dr. Bortolussi graduated from the New York Chiropractic College in 2004 and now practices in Vaughn, Ontario. Interestingly enough, Dr. Bortolussi had never himself experienced chiropractic care before pursuing it as a career. Now, he runs his own practice. He is sharing why he chose to become a chiropractor, how his practice has evolved and changed, and everything he’s learned along the way.
Key Takeaways:
- Why Dr. Bortolussi decided to become chiropractor. [2:10]
- His experience with chiropractic care before it became his career. [5:10]
- Why he decided on New York Chiropractic College. [6:16]
- The amount of vitalism Dr. Bortolussi was exposed to during college. [10:57]
- How he prepared himself to start his own practice during school. [12:45]
- The evolution of Dr. Bortolussi’s career, and how this related to the changes in his marriage. [15:29]
- How his practice has changed in its new iteration. [22:18]
- Creating his own definition of chiropractic care. [23:35]
- When Dr. Bortolussi joined The Vitality Shift, and how he found out about it. [26:53]
- Tips for increasing an online presence, which is especially important during lockdown. [31:50]
- The importance of experience, authority, and trust on your webpage. [43:31]
- Integrating your site with online booking platforms, and discovering the new tools available. [49:10]
- How Dr. Bortolussi encourages customer reviews for his business. [50:10]
- Words of wisdom from Dr. Bortolussi for the listeners. [53:50]
Find out more about The Vitality Shift: www.thevitalityshift.com
In this episode, Dr. Don is joined by Dr. Pip Penrose, a passionate chiropractor from Stratford, Ontario.
As a teen, Dr. Penrose was sick with mono more than once when a friend suggested she visit a chiropractor to see how they might be able to help. Her experience was life-changing. It was soon after this that she decided she wanted to become a chiropractor herself.
More recently, she wanted to branch out and open her own practice. On this new path, she would discover what that would entail, as well as face the limiting thoughts and beliefs she had about herself. She shares that journey with us today.
Key Takeaways:
- Dr. Penrose’s story on how she discovered chiropractic care. [1:50]
- How and when she decided to become a chiropractor herself. [3:22]
- Dr. Penrose’s school experience in pursuing her career. [4:53]
- Her career path following school. [7:36]
- When she started doing The Vitality Shift, as well as the impact this has had on her business. [10:14]
- How understanding personality differences has improved her business. [13:43]
- What Dr. Penrose has learned so far through The Vitality Shift. [19:59]
- The two personalities Dr. Pip Penrose identifies with, and how she uses them to navigate difficult situations. [23:05]
- What Dr. Penrose hopes to show her kids through this journey. [26:09]
- The beliefs Dr. Penrose had to adjust to being successful in going out on her own. [26:50]
- What it took for Dr. Penrose to feel firmer in her decision. [30:50]
- Dr. Penrose shares how her new business is going so far. [35:01]
- What she would go back and tell herself at 18-years-old if she could. [36:42]
- Words of inspiration for anyone listening. [37:08]
Find out more about The Vitality Shift: https://www.thevitalityshift.com
In this episode, Dr. Don is joined by Nancy Dent, an advocate for change in legislation for chiropractic care.
Nancy’s daughter came into the world with compromised abilities and neurological issues, which led to challenges with her care. Nancy decided to look beyond what the conventional medical field had to offer. At age 4, her daughter began seeing a chiropractor.
Exploring Chiropractic care led her daughter to transform in incredible ways. After a short amount of time, she was able to walk independently, increase her spatial awareness, and enjoy her life more. This is why Nancy is passionate about seeing chiropractors be able to share what they can do with the world. Nancy has become an advocate for chiropractors by working to change the current legislation that restricts chiropractic care.
Key Takeaways:
- Nancy’s story about how and why her daughter’s journey with chiropractic care began. [5:25]
- The progression of her daughter’s care and how it has improved her quality of life. [9:55]
- Why Nancy is passionate about advocating for chiropractic care. [12:00]
- How Nancy became an advocate to change legislation for chiropractors. [13:55]
- Clinical trials versus lived experience. [16:15]
- An update on how Nancy’s daughter is doing now, and why she has to continue advocating for change moving forward. [20:38]
- How the current regulations impact a parent’s ability to care for their child. [27:02]
- The best way to connect with Nancy. [31:10]
- Final thoughts on making change and advocacy. [33:00]
- Parting words of inspiration from Nancy. [35:38]
You can find Nancy on Facebook here. https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100005178015921
Find out more about The Vitality Shift: https://www.thevitalityshift.com/fb-popup-group
On today’s show, Dr. Don is joined by Brandi MacDonald, who, in addition to being Dr. Dons’ wife, is co-owner of South Side Chiropractic in Edmonton. Brandi joins us to discuss the main obstacles chiropractors find they come up against when trying to shift to the salutogenic model and how to overcome them.
The most common obstacle that chiropractors find themselves up against is the pain conversation. Brandi explains that you can’t ever get away from the question fully. Pain is an important data point, and you should be looking at it as a starting point. Help your patients reframe pain in their mind as a symptom of a wider issue. Brandi goes on to discuss effectiveness in communication and how effectiveness is subjective.
Brandi brings up the importance of patient education and understanding of your chiropractic approach. Brandi also discusses being an emotionally healthy practitioner and what mindset works in creating patient relationships. To end the episode, Brandi tells us about the pop-up Facebook group she and Dr. Don have set up, and reminds us that everything we experience is data and can be learned from.
Key Takeaways:
- Why you can’t ever get away from the pain conversation. [2:55]
- Reframing the patient’s perspective of pain. [8:20]
- Becoming more effective in communication; What is effectiveness? [12:20]
- Maintaining a healthy mindset to maintain healthy patient relationships. [22:00]
- About the Vitality Shift pop-up Facebook group. [26:35]
- Words of wisdom. [29:20]
To get more information on how to join the free Facebook Pop up group, called "The Salutogenic Practice" click here: https://www.thevitalityshift.com/fb-popup-group
On today’s show Dr. Don is joined by Dr. Tiffany Johnson, who runs Healing Touch Chiropractic in West Fargo and hosts The Aligned Life Podcast. A returning guest, Dr. Tiffany joins us today to update us on how things have changed since the beginning of the pandemic and finding and working in your genius.
When the pandemic hit, Dr. Tiffany was out of state. Before returning to her practice, she had to isolate for 3 weeks. She tells us how that time off allowed her mind to clear and realize that she needed to make her business more sustainable. With new regulations, the physical flow of the practice had to change. This affected everything. You need to have enough strong support in your team to cope with such drastic changes.
Dr. Tiffany goes on to discuss how she has utilized the pandemic to become better at time blocking. It has led to less hours in office, but the same volume of patients. Going forward, Dr. Tiffany reminds us that while times are tough right now and we need to do our jobs, we need to be human too.
Key Takeaways:
- How Dr. Tiffany’s experience in lockdown has changed her practice. [2:48]
- Realizing the need for the right support in your team and how to achieve it. [5:30]
- Cancelling the bells and whistles and focusing on what is truly important. [8:26]
- How Dr. Tiffany has maintained patient volume while cutting hours. [12:58]
- Utilizing lockdown to create more time efficiency. [23:08]
- Being available for your team. [24:28]
- Advice for those struggling to delegate and give up control. [27:10]
- Inspiration for those who need it. [31:00]
Find out more about The Vitality Shift: https://www.thevitalityshift.com/fb-popup-group
Dr. Dara Tyrrell is joining us in this episode. She practices in Scotland and has grown her chiropractic business very quickly, having graduated from chiropractic school in Wales in 2013.
After getting through chiropractic school, Dr. Dara first thought she did not want to run her own business. We hear how she chose her first associateship and the success that she had. Eventually, Dr. Dara did make the decision to open her own practice. She explains what made her come to this decision.
Her practice has experienced rapid growth, so Dr. Dara takes us through the things she did right in the early days to lay a successful foundation. Part of her success has come through her extreme work ethic, but this has also caused her to burn out before. She provides advice for other chiropractors on what she has learned about preventing burnout.
Key Takeaways:
- How Dr. Dara first heard about chiropractic. [1:43]
- What the experience of going through chiropractic school was like for Dr. Dara. [5:09]
- The process of picking her first associateship position. [6:31]
- Leaving the stability of her full-time job. [10:41]
- Aspects that attributed to the quick growth of Dr. Dara’s practice. [13:49]
- Where the first patients came from. [16:24]
- A time when Dr. Dara got burnt out and how she overcame it. [19:14]
- Dara’s experience at the Shift Re-Wire Mastermind. [22:43]
- What the COVID-19 situation looks like in Scotland. [25:32]
- Advice that Dr. Dara would give her younger self. [27:56]
for more information on the Vitality Shift visit https://www.thevitalityshift.com/
On today’s show, Dr. Don is joined by Dr. Marie Osborne. Dr. Marie runs Osborne Chiropractic with her husband John in Tipperary, Ireland. A member of the Shift Re-Wire Mastermind program, Dr. Marie returns to the podcast to update us on her practice and personal wellbeing.
Dr. Marie tells us about how her practice has been these days and how she has been continuing to strive for progression personally and in business. She discusses overcoming her people-pleasing nature to live her truth and how she has worked to shed beliefs that don’t serve. Doing the internal work is uncomfortable, but necessary, in order to progress and grow.
Many places are beginning to re-open and no longer have lockdown orders in effect. Dr. Marie tells us how they have adjusted their space to meet guidelines and continue to provide access to care. Protecting your mental space is paramount with everything going on, but how do you do that and continue to work?
Key Takeaways:
- Working on the shift to the vitalistic approach. [2:17]
- Overcoming the need to people-please and living her truth. [4:56]
- The necessity of feeling uncomfortable when doing internal work. [9:45]
- Overcoming societal and internal beliefs about working mothers. [10:17]
- Building personal awareness. [13:07]
- How Dr. Marie let go of the guilt of not being everywhere. [16:30]
- COVID impacts on Ireland. [18:20]
- Adjusting to guidelines to provide access to care. [25:45]
- Protecting your mental space. [28:09]
- Words of inspiration. [30:41]
We are welcoming Dr. Dave Hansen for his second appearance in today’s episode. Dr. Hansen just had a record-breaking month in July despite the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. This episode is geared towards finding out what has made Dr. Hansen bounce back and break records during this difficult time.
Some key components of his success were the high demand for chiropractic services after re-opening, which we hear about in detail. Dr. Hansen, however, stipulates that the first half of the year was not so fun.
Dr. Don and Dr. Hansen to go on to discuss how they handle integrating new employees to the team and how hiring a chiropractic associate have helped both themselves and their practices.
Key Points:
- How Dr. Hansen reached his results [3:33]
- The reasons to hire a CA and the impact it can have on your practice [6:05]
- A good lesson for a lot of people from Dr. Don [10:52]
- How Dr. Hansen and his new CA are handling the practice [11:42]
- Did hiring a CA force Dr. Hansen to become more engaged in the front? [13:35]
- Keys for hiring new employees in the chiropractic world [15:05]
- Managing the front and letting go to focus on making adjustments [18:02]
- The importance of recognizing burn out [18:58]
- How Dr. Hansen is focusing more on self-care in recent months [19:50]
- Hansen’s journey on changing his mindset [23:03]
- The “feeling” issue experienced by Dr. Hansen and his progress on correcting it [25:06]
- Words of inspiration from Dr. Hansen [28:13]
You can listen to the previous episode featuring Dr. Hansen here.
For more details on the Vitality shift of the Rewire Mastermind visit https://www.thevitalityshift.com/
On today’s show, Dr. Don is joined by Dr. Helen Cox. Dr. Helen runs the Tri-Chiropractic practice in Lethbridge, Alberta. A graduate of Parker University in 1998, Dr. Helen has been in practice for 20 years.
Beginning by taking us through her journey to chiropractic practice, Dr. Helen gives us an honest look into dealing with the struggles of single parenting while trying to establish a career. She also tells us about dealing with health issues, burnout and rediscovering her passion.
Now running for ACAC Council, Dr. Helen is looking to help people make a shift in their own lives towards speaking their truth and being unafraid to do so. You have the ability to shape your practice the way you want it to be and you have the power to prevent negativity in your practice. Just focus on what you truly want.
Key Takeaways:
- How Dr. Helen came to pick Chiropractic Medicine as her major. [1:44]
- What drew her to studying at Parker. [3:06]
- The benefits and impact of Parker Seminars. [5:33]
- Building a practice amidst being a single parent and health scares. [7:43]
- Growing her practice: Focusing on sincerity and relationships. [9:23]
- Beginning the vitality shift. [12:10]
- Evolving her chiropractic philosophy. [14:00]
- Overcoming imposter syndrome, knowing what you want and going for it. [15:39]
- Experiencing burnout and how Dr. Helen protects herself from it now. [17:47]
- Dealing with re-emerging health concerns amidst COVID-19. [19:19]
- What led to running for leadership. [23:10]
- Finding your own truth and living in your purpose. [24:50]
- Words of inspiration for new practitioners or those feeling burnt out. [27:51]
It's a time for Chiropractors to grow not retract! In today’s episode, Dr. Don is joined by his wife, Brandi MacDonald, who co-owns South Side Chiropractic in Edmonton, Alberta. She is also a professional speaker, author, and coach. Brandi explains how the current pandemic is similar to an injury to the body and how we essentially went into shock and feared the unknown. COVID-19 can be related to a phase of chronic pain where the body still needs to recover from the injury itself.
Dr. Don explains how this is an important time to not take your foot off the gas as much, as it feels like you should when it comes to your practice. Dr. Don asks Brandi how to regain our energy to put into our practices, and she weighs in on how to adapt to restrictions and health procedures.
Key Takeaways:
- The fight or flight and fight or freeze response. [5:40]
- The “ready” position and how it affects the various professions. [6:58]
- Focusing on the upside of the trauma brought on to your practice. [10:47]
- How South Side Chiropractic was affected by the pandemic and how they had to resort to a critical patient-only basis. [12:04]
- How having a family can drastically affect your practice as childcare has been limited or shut down in various areas. [15:45]
- Brandi explains how she believes what you allow into your space can help you to pull through and regain energy. [19:35]
- Some activities that can help to take your mind off things and shut your brain off. [21:06]
- Social distancing and how Dr. Don conserves energy on his off days. [24:22]
- Surge capacity, open hours, and how minimizing your hours can actually be more beneficial. [25:57]
On today’s show, Dr. Don is joined by Dr. Jason Hollingsworth. Dr. Jason runs the Back to Health practice in Strathmore, Alberta with his wife Dr. Heather Russell. A graduate of Western States Chiropractic College, Dr. Jason has been in practice for 20 years.
Discussing his path to chiropractic practice, Dr. Jason also tells us how he met his wife at school after they had both deferred a year. He discusses their journey to a more vitalistic approach to chiropractic wellness and overcoming burnout after changing their approach.
Dr. Jason also takes us through the reasons he has become more involved in the politics of chiropractic practice. Currently running for ACAC Council, he believes it is time for the different approaches of the chiropractic discipline to be less divided and wants to encourage us all to become involved on a more united front. What can we accomplish when we collaborate?
Key Takeaways:
- How Dr. Jason arrived at practicing Chiropractic Medicine. [1:30]
- Meeting his wife and business partner through school. [4:35]
- The path to their own practice. [6:15]
- Developing their vitalistic approach. [9:06]
- Growing their practice from the ground up. [12:32]
- How their community involvement has strengthened the practice. [13:48]
- Burnout: What caused it and how did they cope with it? [14:30]
- What helped turn their finances around? [16:55]
- How Dr. Jason became involved in politics. [21:00]
- The importance of fostering unity in the chiropractic community. [24:40]
- Words of inspiration for those starting out or feeling burnt out. [26:58]
On today’s show, Dr. Don is joined by Dr. Naomi Mills. Originally from Aberdeen in Scotland, Dr. Naomi studied at the Anglo-European College of Chiropractic in Bournemouth. Until recently, Dr. Naomi owned a practice in the UK.
Joining us 2 years on from her first appearance on the show, she discusses the drastic shift she has made. Last time she spoke to us she had just finished building and opening the clinic of her dreams. Today she has left that clinic behind and moved to Scotland to start again.
Self-reflection and understanding where her values truly lie played a huge part in this decision. Naomi takes us through how she came to the decision to sell, what the process was like, and where her future lies. During the lockdown, you also have the opportunity to look at where you are and ask yourself what am I working so hard for?
Key Takeaways:
- How Dr. Naomi came to the decision to leave her ‘dream’ practice. [2:20]
- The work involved in creating her new vision and how she took action. [7:15]
- The process of selling and facilitating the transition for her clients and new owners. [9:28]
- Letting go of emotional ties to evolve. [11:34]
- What Dr. Naomi has planned for the future once lockdown is lifted. [13:20]
- Her involvement in the future opening of The Scottish Chiropractic College. [16:37]
- What plans she has for the curriculum she would like to teach. [18:53]
- How fellow chiropractors can support the college in its opening. [21:04]
- Tips for finding inspiration and understanding your values during the lockdown. [22:40]
Dr. Don is joined today by Dr. Ali Miller from Bolton, Ontario. Ali’s mom had always suffered from headaches until she began to see a chiropractor, and that’s when Ali saw a shift in her mother’s well-being, sparking her interest in chiropractic. Ali also has a love for children and wanted to be able to gear her profession towards a branch of pediatrics. Ali is a graduate of the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College (CNCC) in Toronto, Ontario.
Dr. Miller now operates her own practice out of Bolton, Ontario as Family Health Chiropractic & Wellness. She has also undertaken a certification from the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA) for pediatrics and pregnancy. Dr. Don and Dr. Miller discuss how she juggled getting married, becoming a mother, and attending chiropractic school.
Later in the episode, Dr. Miller discusses how she balances her career and family life, as well as how she avoids burnout and becoming overwhelmed. To close out the episode, Dr. Miller gives us her daily motto “swim your own race” and tell us how she uses that in her daily practice before sharing some more parting words of wisdom.
Key Points:
- How Dr. Miller got into the chiropractic profession [1:50]
- Miller’s advice for current chiropractic school students [4:52]
- How to balance being a mom and juggling chiropractic school [9:37]
- Finished your board exams? Here’s what you can do next [11:01]
- Growing a practice and the ups and downs of the growth cycle [16:10]
- A journey through chiropracting [22:04]
- Miller’s involvement with the Canadian National Alliance for Chiropractic (CNAC) [24:42]
- Dealing with COVID-19 restrictions in the medical profession in Ontario [28:06]
- Parting inspirational words and advice from Dr. Miller [28:44]
- Don shares his opinion on the difference between knowledge and wisdom [30:15]
On today’s show, Dr. Don is joined by Dr. Sheila Bonnett. She obtained her Bachelor of Science in the field of Kinesiology from the University of Saskatchewan. Then she attended Parker College of Chiropractic in Dallas, TX and graduated with honors in 2008. Following a Chiropractic Pediatric internship in Australia, Dr. Sheila started practicing in Saskatoon and now runs her own practice, YXE Chiropractic.
Dr. Sheila makes a promise to treat you with passion and compassion and has a strong focus on optimizing health and vitality in the community. She discusses her journey to chiropractic medicine and the mentorship she was able to receive while studying at Parker College.
Later, Dr. Sheila takes us through the process of opening her clinic and what it will be like post-COVID-19. If you are in the process of reopening, have you taken the time to evaluate your values and principles? If so, are you operating from a place of alignment in your business?
Key Takeaways:
- How Dr. Sheila came to the chiropractic profession. [1:42]
- How her experience in multiple practices as a C.A enabled her to build strong relationships in the Saskatoon chiropractic community. [6:00]
- The indispensable experience of mentorship she had at Parker College. [11:10]
- The disparate experiences of students in different schools. [15:19]
- The renewed importance of education and communication as chiropractic services were delisted by the government. [18:51]
- Understanding the importance of client flow. [28:25]
- Recovering from burnout after childbirth. [29:45]
- Self reflection for performance and relationship improvement. [35:45]
- Post-COVID-19 reopening strategies. [38:14]
- Words of inspiration for re-opening. [46:25]
On today’s episode, Dr. Don is joined by Dr. Michelle Ariette to offer a little bit of inspiration and positivity, especially to those clinics about to re-open. Dr. Michelle graduated in 2002 from Life West and has had 3 separate practices, all seeing consistent growth. Based in Rockland, California, she began her journey to the chiropractic profession after suffering an injury in high school. How has she kept her upbeat approach during the pandemic?
Dr. Michelle takes us through her journey from school to discussing her experiences setting up 3 practices. She then tells us how the COVID-19 pandemic is affecting her current practice and mindset along with what she is doing to talk openly with her clients during this time.
How are you preparing for your practice to re-open if the pandemic closed it? Dr. Michelle recommends looking at your mindset and focusing day to day on your goals. What can you do to help your returning clients?
Key Takeaways:
- How Dr. Michelle Ariette came to chiropractic medicine. [2:20]
- What led her to choose Life West and her experience there. [6:34]
- Building her first, second and third practice. [9:34]
- How she has weathered the storm during COVID-19. [11:53]
- The importance of having a growth energy and mindset. [13:40]
- The regulations for practices open during the pandemic in California. [19:45]
- Being open with clients about the pathogenic model. [21:44]
- Seeing how lockdown has affected client’s health habits. [27:00]
- Tips on keeping up momentum and a positive mindset during dips. [28:54]
- Words of inspiration. [35:00]
We welcome two guests in today’s episode: Crystal Dwyer Hansen and Mark Victor Hansen. After crushing it in real estate, Crystal became a wellness coach and a clinical hypnotherapist. Mark is a mentor of Don’s and co-author of Chicken Soup for the Soul, a series which has sold over five hundred million copies worldwide. A husband and wife team, they have co-written a new book titled Ask!: The Bridge from Your Dreams to Your Destiny.
Crystal and Mark take us through how they came to write their new book. Crystal explains the two types of people that she sees in the world and what separates them, conveying why the couple knew they had to write this book. Afterwards, Mark shares a story to provide advice for chiropractors who are worrying during the pandemic.
The couple encourages everybody to make a plan for when we can start working again. How can you build a better connection with your patients? That is such an important thing to think about so that you can serve your patients in the best way possible.
Key Takeaways:
- How Crystal and Mark met each other. [2:42]
- Scaling down while working together. [9:55]
- What inspired Crystal and Mark to write their new book. [14:27]
- Advice for chiropractors to overcome fear imposed by COVID-19. [17:58]
- Additional content that purchasers of the book receive. [23:28]
- Resisting self-sabotage as a chiropractor and expanding dreams. [26:43]
- Words of wisdom for thinking about clients during the pandemic. [31:18]
In this episode, Dr. Don is pleased to welcome one of his biggest mentors to the podcast. It’s Dr. John Demartini, who is thanked immediately for everything he has taught Dr. Don. This includes some advice that is especially relevant now during the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Demartini explains the story of how a backpacking trip in South America allowed him to realize his desire to become a human behavior specialist.
We hear about the division between certain segments of practitioners and Dr. Demartini’s opinion on this. He says that chiropractors who do not use objectivity will not be able to govern a patient; instead, they’ll be subjectively letting the patient run them. Dr. Demartini then shares some wisdom on how chiropractors can deal with the stress that this pandemic may bring into their lives. Even COVID-19 is a situation that can be greatly eased with your own objectivity towards it.
For those who wish they had prepared better for COVID-19, Dr. Demartini tells us things we can start doing today to be better prepared for the next emergency. He proceeds to describe The Breakthrough Experience, which is an educational program that Dr. Demartini has hosted over one thousand times.
Key Takeaways:
- Dr. Demartini’s journey into chiropractic. [2:50]
- Vitalistic chiropractors versus evidence-based chiropractors. [9:04]
- Controlling the chaos as a chiropractor during the COVID-19 pandemic. [16:43]
- Current opportunities to communicate with and care about your patients. [20:41]
- The link between saving money and improving self-worth. [24:07]
- How to save more money in your business. [28:52]
- The Breakthrough Experience with Dr. Demartini. [33:24]
- Dr. Demartini’s upcoming book. [39:15]
Connect with Dr. John Demartini: https://drdemartini.com/
Connect with Dr. Don https://www.thevitalityshift.com/ Facebook: The Vitality Shift for Chiropractors
Dr. Don is joined for a second time by Mike Michalowicz, entrepreneurial expert and author of multiple financial guidebooks. Mike and Dr. Don spoke in a previous episode, Increase the Vitality of a Chiropractic Business with Mike Michalowicz, on giving chiropractors the tools to eradicate debt and to increase profitability. Today, Mike is discussing the business hierarchy of needs and sharing information from his new book, Fix This Next: Make the Vital Change That Will Level Up Your Business.
Mike and Dr. Don also discuss current events, specifically issues that are arising from forced closures due to COVID-19 and what business owners can do to make the most of this. Don’t sit at home and wait for this to pass. Mike recommends, among other ideas, creating online training videos for clients and staff or preparing for a surge of clients looking to make up training when businesses reopen.
Mike’s new book is available on April 28th online on Amazon and Barnes and Noble. If you’re looking to get a head start, check out his website at fixthisnext.com for evaluation software to evaluate your business before the book release.
Key Takeaways:
- Mike’s take on the biggest challenge for entrepreneurs. [2:10]
- The businesses hierarchy of needs. [5:10]
- Examples Mike has seen of other businesses that had to scrap focusing on the top of the pyramid and get back to basics. [8:26]
- Mike links his other books back to the hierarchy and explains how it all blends together. [10:36]
- Recommendations for chiropractors who may have to close for a couple of weeks due to COVID-19. [12:30]
- Recessions as a jumping off point for new businesses. [18:10]
- Mike’s important words for entrepreneurs. [21:29]
Connect with Mike: https://fixthisnext.com/ https://mikemichalowicz.com/
Connect with Dr. Don https://www.thevitalityshift.com/ Facebook: The Vitality Shift for Chiropractors
In cognitive sciences, stress is implicated in 90% of all chronic illnesses yet many doctors aren’t willing to make that diagnosis. Hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and mental illness top the charts worldwide for debilitating physiological issues with little being done to get to the root cause. The healthcare system is failing people leaving chiropractic care to lead the way in removing subluxations to get the body back into working order. To discuss pertinent research on the topic of complete care, Dr. Don welcomes returning guest and long-time mentor Dr. Michael Hall to the podcast. Dr. Hall is an expert who facilitates seminars in improving function and increasing brain health. He describes various research papers that focus on the connection between subluxation and brain function, lung capacity, chronic forward head posture caused by electronics, and more. This fascinating conversation offers chiropractors the opportunity to refocus their message beyond adjustments and toward treating the whole human.
To register for our Gold Coast Shift Unplugged event in Australia, please go to https://www.trueconceptsseminars.com/gold-coast/
Key Takeaways: * How just getting out of a chair and walking can increase your health. [2:02] * Dr. Hall shares the research that demonstrates how chiropractic care can repair damage caused by excessive stress. [8:33] * The importance of self-care for chiropractors. [18:48] * How chiropractic adjustments affect the prefrontal cortex. [22:49] * Dr. Hall unpacks an article regarding chronic forward head posture and how it affects lung capacity and brain function. [23:26] * The message chiropractors need to share about the benefits of adjustments. [32:18] * Addressing clinical research papers can assist chiropractors in identifying underlying causes of practice member's pain. [39:38]
Learn More: Brain DC Website
OTZ Health Ed Seminars
Vitality Shift Website
True Concept Seminars
Dr. Don MacDonald
@DrDonMacDonald on Twitter
Most chiropractors know what they need to do to grow their practice but hesitate when asked why they don’t take the needed steps to do it. The number one reason chiropractors don’t grow is that they are afraid of objections and rejection.
If you spend energy pushing towards goals that you are unsure of, it can burn you out and you may stop setting goals altogether. But it's a vicious cycle you can mentally and emotionally overcome. In this episode, Brandi and Dr. Don discuss the common barriers and deficits many chiropractors gave voice to at the recent Shift Unplugged event.
Brandi shares ways to desensitize fear, resources for self-guided learning opportunities, and information on how you can be part of future Shift Unplugged events and masterminds.
To register for our Gold Coast Shift Unplugged event in Australia, please go to: https://www.trueconceptsseminars.com/gold-coast/
Key Takeaways: * Brandi recaps the benefits of having 600+ years of chiropractic experience from the Phoenix Shift Unplugged event. [1:15] * Most people know what it takes to grow their practice but they don’t know how to overcome the barriers to do it. [7:37] * To adapt emotionally you must be physically strong and this is where the self-care pyramid becomes important. [15:09] * Masterminds are designed to help chiropractors to get clear about what they want and then build the strategies to get there. [16:40] * Brandi offers resources from influencers who can help lay the groundwork for making true change. [23:12] * Dr. Don and Brandi discuss upcoming True Concept Seminar events around the globe. [26:24]
Learn More: Vitality Shift Website
True Concept Seminars
Dr. Don MacDonald
@DrDonMacDonald on Twitter
Shifter and guest speaker at Vitality Shift events, Dr. Ben Purcell joins Dr. Don to discuss the biggest transformations he experienced after joining the Vitality Shift program and switching to the life model.
His practice in Bathurst, Australia has doubled its growth over the past two years, and he is a vital part of our mentorship program. He describes the challenges he faced as he tried to create new habits that better align himself, and his practice, into exactly what he wants. Dr. Ben has evolved his practice into an enduring center of wellness.
After listening to this episode, you will understand why it is important to be open to changes and know your premise, how the life model benefits the lives of practice members in a way pain-based care cannot, and how taking full responsibility for yourself and your actions can transform your practice.
To register for our live event in Australia, please go to: https://www.trueconceptsseminars.com/gold-coast/
Key Takeaways: * Dr. Purcell describes how he overcame challenges in his practice by taking full responsibility for his actions. [4:54] * Real transformation occurred for Ben when he transitioned from pain-based care to the life model. [10:51] * The importance of the adjustment. [21:16] * Understanding their personality style can help chiropractors become aligned with who they want to be. [30:59] * Why taking care of your personal health ultimately takes care of your practice. [37:50] * Dr. Purcell shares his takeaways from 2019 King’s Cliff Vitality Shift. [45:48]
Learn More: Bathurst Chiropractic
Vitality Shift Website
True Concept Seminars
Dr. Don MacDonald
@DrDonMacDonald on Twitter
Dr. Don digs deep into the archives to find this important podcast previously published as What Does Money Have To Do With It?. This 50th episode in the Breaking the Underdog Curse series is co-hosted by Brandi MacDonald. It is imperative to revisit the necessary topic of money and finances several times throughout the year because once you get your money in order it makes everything in your practice easier. If you are stressed about your finances it can be difficult to give ideal recommendations. And, if you get your money under control, objections become less of an issue.
After listening to this episode, you will hear how two very different upbringings impact a person’s financial future and how to change your mindset around the value of money.
Key Takeaways: * Examples of the many ways money controls our lives. [9:09] * Dr. Don and Brandi share their personal financial histories and how it affected their betrothment. [12:15] * The income to debt ratio and how it affects chiropractors. [24:27]
Learn More: Vitality Shift Website
True Concept Seminars
Dr. Don MacDonald
@DrDonMacDonald on Twitter
Dr. Don heads south and drops into New Zealand to speak with Dr. David Comely of Total Health Chiropractic in Wellington. Dr. Comely has been in practice for 13 years, has two practices with 7 chiropractors and is part of the Vitality Shift program. When he adds new associates — mostly new graduates — into his practice he prepares them for the mental, physical, and emotional stressors they may experience by working with them on their headspace. He wants to make sure they are clear on their why, their values, and their technique.
After listening to this episode, you will have a solid strategy for adding associates to your practice, what type of training to use with new associates, what to consider when contemplating adding new locations, and tips on how to avoid burnout associated with growing a practice.
Key Takeaways: * David shares his experiences with chiropractic throughout his life and why he embraced chiropractic as a career. [2:39] * At New Zealand Chiropractic College, David was able to get the perspective of many different teachers. [6:50] * David started his chiropractic career as an associate but he had a vision for what he wanted his own practice in Wellington to look like. [12:09] * How David built up his practice after starting from scratch in a new city. [17:51] * When David was seeing 100 practice members a week and still running the business, he knew it was time to hire associates. [24:09] * When hiring associates David uses these strategies to help them be their best. [29:10] * Advice from David on how to avoid burnout. [40:10] * Tips for chiropractors to stay happy and healthy in their Vitalistic practice. [46:55]
Learn More: Total Health Wellington Chiropractic
doctorcomely@totalhealthchiro.co.nz
Vitality Shift Website
True Concept Seminars
Dr. Don MacDonald
@DrDonMacDonald on Twitter
Most chiropractors don’t enter the profession with the idea of getting into ‘behind the practice’ politics. But, making your voice heard and supporting an organization who will support you can bring about positive changes for chiropractors everywhere. In this episode, Dr. Don speaks with Dr. Chad Mykietiuk, the president of the Canadian National Alliance for Chiropractic, or CNAC. CNAC is an association that focuses on getting chiropractors together, promoting all forms of chiropractic, and to make members voices heard by gathering feedback. Dr. Mykietiuk shares the goals of the association and how it intends to move chiropractic forward in all the provinces of Canada.
After listening to this episode, you will have a better understanding of why chiropractors need to get involved in politics, the difference between a regulatory board and an association, and the benefits of having an association in your area.
Key Takeaways: * Why chiropractors should get involved in professional politics. [3:35] * What chiropractic can and can’t do: Dealing with false claims. [6:35] * The Canadian National Alliance for Chiropractic (CNAC) was created by chiropractors for all flavours of chiropractic. [12:59] * The importance of connecting chiropractors and making their voices heard. [25:42] * Dr. Mykietiuk explains the difference between a regulatory board and an association. [29:55] * Dr. Mykietiuk shares feedback from practitioners derived from a CNAC survey. [35:46] * Support organizations that support you and connect with other chiropractic professionals. [43:26]
Learn More: Canadian National Alliance for Chiropractic (CNAC)
Vitality Shift Website
True Concept Seminars
Dr. Don MacDonald
@DrDonMacDonald on Twitter
This week Dr. Don travels back across the pond to the oasis-like town of Marlow, Buckinghamshire, England to speak with Chiropractor Dr. Dean Rieder. Just three years ago, Dr. Rieder graduated from Durbin Chiropractic College in South Africa. He moved to the UK to start his practice and during this episode shares the ups and downs of attracting practice members, the costs of starting anew, and his unique approach to a homemade commercial with a famous client. Dr. Rieder thirstily seeks out any and all seminars, including the Vitality Shift program, and podcasts about chiropractic care. He recommends taking action as opposed to overthinking. And, due to his recommendation, the next shift unplugged event will be held in Marlow in September.
After listening to this episode, you will have a better understanding of the trials and tribulations new chiropractors face, the requirements for practicing abroad, and why it is important to get involved with a chiropractic community.
Key Takeaways:
● Dean studied at Durbin Chiropractic College in South Africa and then moved to England to start his practice. [2:14]
● How Dean discovered Vitalistic Chiropractic and the education he sought out after graduating. [8:00]
● What Dean did to get his name out there and gain practice members. [12:11]
● Dean visits the countryside and exercises as a form of self-care. [14:33]
● Dean shares his Vitality Shift experience and how his chiropractic care has changed over time. [19:31]
● Dean shares a story about the day Russell Brand came into his office and the video they made together. [24:27]
● Dean’s advice for chiropractors is to listen to chiropractic podcasts and to get involved with your community. [32:12]
● The next Shift Unplugged will be the first week of September in Marlow, UK. [35:18]
Learn More:
Halsa Group
Vitality Shift Website
True Concept Seminars
Dr. Don MacDonald
@DrDonMacDonald on Twitter
Chiropractic Assistants play a vital role in the daily activities, outreach, and success of a chiropractic practice. CA’s have unique strategies for empowering employees, offering Chiropractors the freedom to work with patients and keep the office running smoothly. To get the information directly from the source, Dr. Don heads south to North Aurora, Illinois to speak with, Natasha Rominski, the Chiropractic Assistant at Hanson Family Chiropractic and Shifter.
After listening to this episode, you will have a better understanding of the breadth of responsibility a chiropractic assistant embodies, how impeccable customer service can increase internal referrals, and hear some truly great nuggets of advice from a person who knows the ropes.
Key Takeaways: * Natasha had experience running an office but traditional medical practices left her wanting a job more aligned with her values. [1:57] * Tools that help Natasha train new employees and procedures that keep the office running smoothly. [8:59] * Health talks for teens, establishing a brand, and other events Natasha participates in to draw people into the office. [13:19] * Impeccable customer service drives internal referrals. [15:30] * Setting the tone and culture in the office, how to handle office conflicts, and advice for chiropractors when hiring. [21:18] * How to train a new employee in a chiropractic practice. [31:29] * Natasha shares her personal development timeline, how she empowers herself, and the importance of being adjusted. [34:36] * Natasha’s advice and words of wisdom. [43:14]
Learn More: Vitality Shift Website
True Concept Seminars
Dr. Don MacDonald
@DrDonMacDonald on Twitter
The purpose of this episode is to give chiropractors the tools to eradicate debt and to increase profitability. Dr. Don speaks with expert entrepreneur and author of seven financial guidebooks, Mike Michalowicz. Mike shares tips and strategies for chiropractors who want to gain stability and profitability in their practice. These proven principles, based on his book, Profit First, have been successfully implemented in over 300 thousand businesses.
After listening to this episode, you will have a better understanding of how to diminish your debt, including student loans, how to become profitable from day one, and which free resources and tools will make the most impact on your practice.
Key Takeaways: * Mike shares his life purpose which is to eradicate entrepreneurial poverty. [2:55] * How to reverse engineer profitability. [7:45] * Mike explains how Parkinson’s Law affects businesses and how Profit First modifies behavior. [11:18] * Debt reduction strategies that empower entrepreneurs. [23:21] * Mike’s next book, Fix This First, helps entrepreneurs identify the changes that can make the most impact on their business. [28:59] * Mike offers advice to chiropractors includes ‘Take action, don’t wallow’. [34:00]
Learn More: Mike Michalowicz Website
Profit First Book
Entrepreneurship Elevated Podcast
@MikeMichalowicz on Instagram
Vitality Shift Website
True Concept Seminars
Dr. Don MacDonald
@DrDonMacDonald on Twitter
In this informative episode, Dr. Don travels to Brighton, England to speak with Dr. Richard McMinn. Dr. McMinn has 42 years of experience as a chiropractor who has studied and practiced in four different countries. As a graduate of Palmer University in 1977, Dr. McMinn has grandfathered access to practice in whichever country he chooses. He offers sage financial, life, and business advice to new and seasoned chiropractors.
After listening to this episode, you will have a better understanding of how to create certainty in your life and practice, how to keep your ledgers in the black, and the history of chiropractic from the 1970s to today.
Key Takeaways: * Dr. McMinn describes his journey to chiropractic and graduating from Palmer University. [3:22] * Dr. McMinn says the other chiropractors he met while in New Zealand offered him guidance and insight which was vital for his growth. [12:23] * After moving to Perth, Dr. McMinn was ‘filling in’ for other chiropractors before opening his own practice. [14:25] * Money lessons from a chiropractor with 42 years of experience. [19:06] * Dr. McMinn recounts the necessary credentials for practicing chiropractic in different countries. [20:41] * The United Chiropractic Association was started in the UK to represent the vitality of chiropractic. [24:29] * Nuggets and advice from a seasoned chiropractor who loves his profession. [28:50]
Learn More: Chiropractic Life Hove
@chirolife on Twitter
United Chiropractic Association
Vitality Shift Website
True Concept Seminars
Dr. Don MacDonald
@DrDonMacDonald on Twitter
In this co-hosted episode, Dr. Don and Brandi MacDonald set out to help chiropractors increase their vitality, at home and in their practice. After working together for more than a decade, the duo has learned a thing or two about collaboration and planning. They both have distinct personality types that when used together propel them forward into an efficient and competent team. Their list of five things you should stop doing to be successful can be used as guidelines to make you and your practice happier, healthier, and wealthier.
After listening to this episode, you will have a better understanding of why it is important to change spaces when performing planning exercises, why making substantial decisions should be easy, and how to limit your non-intentional conversations to increase your productivity.
Key Takeaways: * The 5 things you must stop in 2020 to increase your vitality as a chiropractor. [2:03] + Indecisiveness [2:03] + Self-doubt [21:50] + Fear [26:32] + Procrastinating [33:01] + Non-intentional conversation [38:47] * The process and intended results of a planning weekend. [45:49] * An excerpt from Sipping Brandi read by Brandi. [49:35]
Learn More: Brandi MacDonald Website
Vitality Shift Website
True Concept Seminars
Dr. Don MacDonald
@DrDonMacDonald on Twitter
Host, Dr. Don MacDonald heads East to Winnipeg to speak with chiropractor and podcast host, Dr. Richard Ledda. Dr. Ledda explains the life events that led him to choose a career in chiropractic instead of ‘traditional’ medicine like some family members had done. He is a graduate of Northwestern Health Sciences University and the host of The Chiro Inspired Podcast. Rich shares poignant advice for recent graduates of chiropractic college and for those considering chiropractic as a profession.
During this episode, Rich shares the obesity and metabolic challenges he faced as a teen, how he deals with burnout, how he grew his practice, and his plans to grow his practice after reaching a plateau.
Key Takeaways: * Rich grew up as an unhealthy, overweight kid but it wasn’t until his dad died that he made a change and decided chiropractic was his way forward. [2:43] * Northwestern Health Sciences University provided Rich with a roundhouse of chiropractic philosophies and techniques. [8:10] * Rich’s advice to students and new chiropractic graduates. [14:22] * To grow his practice, Rich leaned into a relationship with his mentor, making the most of his systems and networks. [18:03] * How Rich deals with burnout and maintains focus on his family when his practice feels overwhelming. [24:10] * How the idea for The Chiro Inspired Podcast took root and what Rich has discovered by doing it. [27:56] * If Rich could do it all over again he would tell himself to prepare for the worst but expect the best. [35:56]
Learn More: The Chiro Inspired Podcast
Vitality Shift Website
True Concept Seminars
Dr. Don MacDonald
@DrDonMacDonald on Twitter
Host, Dr. Don MacDonald heads to Boston Massachusetts to speak with Chiropractor and Educator, Dr. Martin Rosen. Dr. Rosen has led his local practice for 37-years. He has also toured, extensively teaching his unique version of a Sacro-Occipital Technique (SOT), his chiropractic philosophy, and about pediatric care. He has mastered his craft and has written several books about his experiences. He wholeheartedly believes chiropractors should receive adjustments as often as their patients and reminds them to speak their truth.
During this episode, Martin shares his chiropractic philosophy, how he manages the finances within his practice, and sage advice to chiropractors who have not yet found their footing.
Key Takeaways: * When Martin discovered practicing law wasn’t for him he decided to practice chiropractic. [2:32] * Why Martin chose to practice the Sacro-Occipital Technique (SOT). [11:12] * How Martin and his wife add practice members, get referrals and coordinate outreach programs. [18:20] * Chiropractors should do unto others only if they do unto themselves. [24:00] * How to handle the finances in your chiropractic practice. [34:23] * Martin shares what drew him to become an educator and his favorite things to teach. [40:55] * Martin’s advice for others based on his years of experience. [49:43]
Learn More: Dr. Martin Rosen Website
Wellesley Chiropractic on Facebook
@drmartinrosen on Instagram
Vitality Shift Website
True Concept Seminars
Dr. Don MacDonald
@DrDonMacDonald on Twitter
Host, Dr. Don MacDonald goes back to the motherland to visit Dr. Destiny Krogsgaard in Kent, England. Destiny was called into chiropractic without ever having an adjustment. Her mother’s chiropractic experience was so transformative, Destiny knew from a young age that she wanted to help others heal themselves. Disillusionment crept in after her college experience and early associate positions only involved the mechanistic model. Then, at just the right time she attended a training that changed her focus and helped her regain purpose.
During this episode, Destiny shares her truths about being in a relationship with another chiropractor who didn’t share her views, the toll that working in a way that didn’t align with her took on her physically and emotionally, and her advice for other chiropractors who may be stewing in uncomfortability.
Key Takeaways: * Destiny was called to chiropractic because of her mother’s experience. When she joined chiropractic college she had never been adjusted. [1:35] * Several life events led Destiny back to an associate position but she knew there had to be something more. [7:09] * After attending classes in neurologically-based Chiropractic training, things started coming together for Destiny but her husband, a chiropractor, wasn’t moving in the same direction. [11:48] * With so many new options and ideas presenting themselves, Destiny was overwhelmed and exhausted. She decided to open her own practice. [19:40] * Destiny’s advice is to find like-minded people you can connect with and learn from. [36:23]
Learn More: Destiny Chiropractic Website
Destiny Chiropractic on Facebook
Vitality Shift Website
True Concept Seminars
Dr. Don MacDonald
@DrDonMacDonald on Twitter
Host, Dr. Don MacDonald speaks to a returning podcast guest, Dr. Alison Young from Queensland, Australia. Alison shares important lessons she learned from constantly attending seminars and committing herself to lifelong learning. These are principles you can implement in your practice and toward your personal development. Alison reflects on the core philosophy of who she is, what she believes in, and how her beliefs have shifted.
During this episode, you’ll hear about why paying attention to the business side of your practice will keep you and your practice healthier, the state of chiropractic in Australia and how the chiropractic community there came together, and the results of shifting into the vitality model.
Key Takeaways: * Ali explains the changes she has made that have led to the massive growth of her practice and her personal development work. [2:22] * Ali recommends pre-planning business expenses and performing a profit analysis that includes the cost per visit. [7:46] * How Ali finds peace during her off hours and connects with her family. [12:14] * Shifting to the life model allowed Ali to better relate to her practice members who are parents. [25:36] * The Chiropractic Assistant (CA) in Ali’s office takes care of many aspects of the practice member’s visit leaving Ali more time to spend connecting with her practice members. [33:04] * The current state of chiropractic in Australia. [36:35]
Learn More: Dr. Alison Young — Looking After Yourself Podcast
Innate Chiropractic Gladstone
Vitality Shift Website
True Concept Seminars
Dr. Don MacDonald
@DrDonMacDonald on Twitter
Host, Dr. Don MacDonald heads over to merry old England to speak with a Danish chiropractor who moved countries to follow her calling to become a healer. After years of struggling with the purpose of the pain-based, mechanistic model, Dr. Jane Hvas knew chiropractic could provide so much more to her practice members. She embraces the Vitalistic model 100% and since she has shifted, it has given her and her practice new energy. During this episode, you’ll hear about Dr. Hvas’ multi-national chiropractic education, what other coaches could and couldn’t do for her and her practice, and the advice she gives other chiropractors who haven’t yet shifted.
Key Takeaways: ● Jane knew she would one day become a healer but her mother’s chiropractic experience is what led her to chiropractic. [2:08] ● Jane was entrenched in fear and stuck in survival mode as there were no outlets for Vitalistic care. [6:04] ● Jane knew deep down that a chiropractor could offer more than pain relief and the impatient practice member that almost caused her to retire. [13:46] ● The benefits of coaching and attending the Vitality Shift. [20:19] ● Dealing with her burn-out was a major struggle and major accomplishment for Jane. [28:46] ● Jane’s advice for shifters and newbies, get clear about your chiropractic philosophy. [30:20]
Learn More: Penkridge Chiropractic Clinic Vitality Shift Website True Concept Seminars Dr. Don MacDonald @DrDonMacDonald on Twitter
Host, Dr. Don MacDonald speaks with the President of the London, Ontario Chiropractic Society, Dr. Michelle Campbell. Michelle, like many chiropractors, was an athlete who was introduced to chiropractic to heal her body from the punishment of being a competitive figure skater. In addition to the significant relief she felt after treatments, she had a moment of clarity and felt destined to pursue chiropractic as a profession. After graduating from the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College (CMCC), she worked as a Locum until an illness in the family led her to the place where she would open her practice.
During this episode, you’ll hear about Michelle’s experience at the Transformer’s Mastermind, her advice for newly graduated chiropractors, and how she dealt with significant life events while being a solo practitioner.
Key Takeaways: Michelle shares how she was introduced to chiropractic and the moment when she knew it would be her career. [1:08]
- After graduating from the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College (CMCC), Michelle worked as a Locum until she decided where she wanted to settle down and start her practice. [10:28]
- Michelle shares how she managed being a mother and starting a new practice, and the mistakes she made. [17:22]
- Michelle learned the hard way that the mind and body need time to recover after significant life events. [21:00]
- Michelle shares the highlights, insights, and breakthroughs she experienced as a result of attending the Transformation Mastermind. [27:25]
- Remove the worry from your life, slow down and enjoy the ride are Michelle’s words of wisdom for other chiropractors. [34:55]
Learn More: Vitality Shift Website
True Concept Seminars
Dr. Don MacDonald
@DrDonMacDonald on Twitter
Campbell Care Centre
Host, Dr. Don MacDonald speaks with long-time friend, colleague, and Vitality Shifter, Dr. Dan Fisher. At the age of nine, Dan experienced a surprisingly painful growth spurt. A chiropractor who was treating Dan’s brother at the time started treating Dan as well. After a month of chiropractic care and the total alleviation of pain, Dan was hooked. The chiropractor recommended Dan dedicate his life to chiropractic. Dr. Dan is currently in his 29th year as a chiropractor. His practice in Vegreville, Alberta is thriving due to the lessons he learned along the way, including some powerful financial ones.
During this episode, you’ll hear about Dr. Dan’s time at Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College (CMCC), a partnership that turned sour, the seminars and coaching he has participated in, and how knowing his business led to hundreds of dollars in monthly savings.
Key Takeaways:
● The inspirational figure who encouraged Dr. Dan to become a chiropractor. [2:42] ● Dan describes his experience at Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College (CMCC). [9:19] ● A business lesson: Chiropractors are colleagues, not competitors. [15:28] ● Parker seminars, Total Solutions, and the difference of the Vitality Shift. [22:59] ● Dan’s advice for new chiropractors or those wanting to inject authenticity into their practice. [35:36] ● How Dr. Dan shifted his finances to lower the overhead of his practice. [40:37] ● How Dr. Dan utilizes the Vitality Shift in his Canadian practice. [49:39]
Learn More:
Vitality Shift Website True Concept Seminars Dr. Don MacDonald @DrDonMacDonald on Twitter Fisher Chiropractic on Facebook
Host, Dr. Don MacDonald heads just South of Dublin Ireland to speak with a married couple who share a chiropractic practice. Since joining the Vitality Shift, Marie and John Osborne are taking a new approach to their practice and their lives. By overcoming their limiting beliefs and technique-driven practice member care they have flourished by focusing on their personal well-being so they can better serve their practice members. Even though they have minimized the number of offices they have, they have maximized their potential.
During this episode, you’ll hear how John overcame the all too common practice of self-sabotage to create a deeper connection with his practice members, the steps Marie has taken to nurture herself so she isn’t running on empty, and how they delegate tasks based on strengths to keep the office running smoothly.
Key Takeaways: Chiropractic ignited something in Marie but she took the long road to becoming a chiropractor. [1:53]
John knew he wanted to be a chiropractor after his first adjustment, it was the philosophy that drew him in. [5:50]
With three chiropractic offices, John continuing his work as an apprentice, and new babies in the house, the couple knew something needed to shift. [10:23]
Marie explains the limiting beliefs that led to her identity crisis. [14:35]
John realizes self-sabotage and lack of connection with his patients was holding him back in his practice. [19:03]
John and Marie explain their lives and practices before and after Vitality Shift. [25:54]
Lessons learned and advice for chiropractors. [33:55]
Learn More: Vitality Shift Website
True Concept Seminars
Dr. Don MacDonald
@DrDonMacDonald on Twitter
Osborne Chiropractic
Welcome to the ‘new’ Vitality Shift podcast. This passion project was born out of our desire to assist chiropractors in making the necessary mindset shifts to achieve success and move to the next level. After over 100 episodes of the Breaking the Underdog Curse podcast, we decided to shift gears from focusing on the external factors that affect chiropractors and their practices and commence focusing on the internal elements that contribute to positive results and outcomes.
In this premiere episode, Dr. Don and Brandi expound on the content in the Transformers Mastermind including becoming aware of the past programming that could be keeping you stuck, the connection between your identity and beliefs, and achieving a state of ease.
Key Takeaways:
- ● Why Breaking the Underdog Curse is rebranded into the Vitality Shift for Chiropractors. [1:38]
- ● The Transformers Mastermind and the connection between your identity and your beliefs when moving to the next level. [7:26]
- ● Fray your limiting beliefs and generational patterns. [18:29]
- ● Become aware of your programming and then use your will to overpower it. [29:04]
- ● Surrender and achieving a state of ease. [32:36]
- ● The 3 levels of thinking. [36:14]
- Learn More:
- Vitality Shift Website
- True Concept Seminars
- Dr. Don MacDonald
- @DrDonMacDonald on Twitter
If you are one of the many chiropractors who is ready to make a change in your practice, or you have implemented changes in your practice but are not yet realizing the results, perhaps you need to make a shift. If your practice is a direct reflection of you, what can you do to shift your mindset, shift your business practices, or shift your belief system?
In this final episode, Brandi shares a top ten list of the qualities and behaviors that chiropractors who blow up their practice embody. She gives specific examples of what works and why. If you are ready to make a shift in your life and your practice these tips can guide you through it.
Key Takeaways: The top 10 traits of chiropractors who blow up their practice:
- They focus on more, not less. [15:58]
- They value action over analysis even when it feels uncomfortable. [21:02]
- They work on personal barriers including health, toxicity in relationships, staff dynamics, and emotional chaos. [23:17]
- They don’t own a number which owns their capacity. [30:39]
- Adaptation is their superpower. [35:40]
- They know marketing is a simple tool to serve more, not a creepy sales tactic. [38:23]
- They view their practice as game #7 sports all the time. [41:40]
- Each person that has succeeded has found a tribe, not just lip service. [42:51]
- They become consistently consistent, no matter how boring the grind is. [47:46]
- Comfortability is their nemesis. [51:21]
Learn More: Sipping Brandi
Reality Check
Vitality Shift Website
True Concept Seminars
Dr. Don MacDonald
The Underdog Curse: The Cause, The Cure and The Road to Success
@DrDonMacDonald on Twitter
The Underdog Curse on Facebook
The future of healing may be vitalistic chiropractic care but without additional research and funding the world may never realize the potential benefits. Vitalistic chiropractic is at a stage of growth and it is necessary for our community to band together to promote the scientific research that is at the core of our professional beliefs.
In this very special interview, we welcome renowned chiropractor, neurophysiologist and author, Dr. Heidi Haavik to the podcast. Dr. Haavik graduated from New Zealand Chiropractic College where she currently holds the position of Director of Research. Her award-winning research in vitalistic chiropractic is paving the way for a new generation of Ph.D. students and the study of the effect subluxation has on the brain.
During this podcast episode, we discuss how we as chiropractors can fund future research specifically focusing on the vitalistic model, how the vitalistic model compares to the mechanical model, and the effect subluxation has on the brain and central nervous system.
Key Takeaways:
- ● Dr. Haavik discusses her family history in medicine and the early days at New Zealand Chiropractic College. [1:25]
- ● Dr. Haavik discovered she had a natural gift for healing and research. [5:46]
- ● Early research in the vitalistic model deepened the understanding of the link between subluxation and the brain. [17:22]
- ● Why the mechanistic chiropractic model is so limited in scope. [22:34]
- ● Does Heidi ever feel like she is plagued by the Underdog Curse? [30:29]
- ● Dr. Haavik discusses the new studies and clinical trials that have her excited right now.[34:50]
- ● Learn more about the Adopt a Ph.D. Student Program. [41:27]
- Learn More:
- Dr. Heidi Haavik
- Reality Check
- Vitality Shift Website
- True Concept Seminars
- Dr. Don MacDonald
- The Underdog Curse: The Cause, The Cure and The Road to Success
- @DrDonMacDonald on Twitter
- Dr. Don MacDonald on Facebook
The belief system behind vitalistic chiropractic is the anchor that keeps us steadfast. It drives our purpose. It is the reason we do what we do. It allows us to maintain our dignity and it ensures we provide high-quality care no other medical therapy is able to offer. But when leaders in our profession waver on the true purpose of our work it can muddy the waters of our mission. Dedicated vitalistic professionals who carry our voices into the political arena need our support.
To speak with someone who is on the front line of chiropractic innovation, we head down south to Marietta, Georgia USA to absorb the wisdom of Life University, President, Dr. Rob Scott. Dr. Scott is a Canadian who ventured to the U.S. to get a fresh start and open an existing practice. He furthered his education to expand and refresh his belief in the body’s ability to self-regulate and to heal itself. His deeper philosophical vision has sustained his position as one of the leaders in maintaining vitalistic standards in chiropractic.
During this podcast episode, we discuss how to best market vitalistic chiropractic care, the underlying philosophical conversations chiropractors should be having, how to beat burnout by immersing yourself in child’s play, and what it is like to shift from running a private practice to working for a chiropractic university.
Key Takeaways:
- ● Dr. Scott describes how he was introduced to chiropractic and the underlying philosophical conversation he engaged in. [2:56]
- ● The biggest challenges Dr. Scott faces working at Life University versus owning and running his private chiropractic practice. [13:41]
- ● To avoid burnout and rejuvenate his spirit, Dr. Scott participates in coaching youth sports. [16:52]
- ● The concept of vitalism and what Life University is doing to grow vitalistic chiropractic. [20:05]
- ● As President of Life University Dr. Scott keeps the conversation focused on the meaningful difference of chiropractic care. [27:30]
- ● How chiropractors can market subluxation and the scientific evidence of vitalistic healthcare. [33:06]
- ● Dr. Scott shares the different ways prospective students or mentors can become involved with Life University. [47:06]
- Learn More:
- Life University Website
- Vitality Shift Website
- True Concept Seminars
- Dr. Don MacDonald
- The Underdog Curse: The Cause, The Cure and The Road to Success
- @DrDonMacDonald on Twitter
- Dr. Don MacDonald on Facebook
Why should you get organized and get involved with your local chiropractic association? Because in chiropractic care there is no single recipe for creating wellness in patients. Every person translates and deals with their pain differently. And, as chiropractors, we still have the benefit of being able to offer neurologically-based care while resisting absorption into the traditional medical system. This offers us the unique position of providing patients with a state of well-being beyond compare. This is the incentive to make our voices heard.
Today we are heading East to Nova Scotia to speak with the President of the Nova Scotia Chiropractic Association and Co-founder of Wellness Media, Dr. Chad Mykietiuk. In 2008, Chad graduated from Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College and almost immediately involved himself in chiropractic politics. His fascination with the body’s natural ability to self-regulate and self-heal has been the motivating factor in his quest to validate and invigorate wellness in the chiropractic community.
During this podcast episode, we discuss how chiropractic colleges can get caught up in the mechanistic aspects of care, the two major defining characteristics of chiropractic, and why every chiropractor who has something to say should get involved in local associations and always do what is right over what is convenient.
Key Takeaways: * Chad knew he was going to be in a health-related profession but it was an injury that led him to chiropractic. [2:12] * What Chad knew about chiropractic before and after attending Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College (CMCC). [6:03] * Starting their chiropractic practice turned out to be a long and bumpy road for Chad and Megan. [10:13] * A borrowed CD gave Chad a renewed sense of love for his profession so he shifted to wellness instead of chasing pain. [18:53] * Chad’s advice for chiropractors who wish to become involved in the politics of the profession. [24:49] * The two major defining characteristics of the chiropractic paradigm and the problem with making policies that create a standard. [31:32] * Chad created Wellness Media to provide resource materials for chiropractors and their offices. [49:53] * Get organized, get involved, and do what is right over what is convenient. [52:22]
Learn More: Wellness Media Website
Village Wellness on Facebook
@DrChadWellness on Twitter
Vitality Shift Website
True Concept Seminars
Dr. Don MacDonald
The Underdog Curse: The Cause, The Cure and The Road to Success
@DrDonMacDonald on Twitter
Dr. Don MacDonald on Facebook
Healthy chiropractors have healthy practices full of healthy patients. If this is true, why have you been skipping your daily exercise program, eating a protein bar at your desk, and stressing out about your non-stop schedule? What training program do you engage in to make you the best chiropractor you can be? Are you practicing gender-specific physical activities that are designed to increase your overall well-being?
Today, Dr. Michael Hall and Brandi MacDonald join me to discuss the Top 2 downloaded Breaking the Underdog Curse podcast episodes of all time. Brandi is currently celebrating the success of her new book, Sipping Brandi. And our long-time mentor, Dr. Hall is enjoying sharing his Functional Neurology Series with audiences all over the world.
During this podcast episode, we discuss the different physical and mental requirements for male and female chiropractors, how to maintain a healthy practice, the role weight loss plays in overall health, how to get your energy back, and tips on how to make a mind-shift milestone and lifestyle change.
Key Takeaways: * Dr. Hall describes the key to resolution for females chiropractors who internalize their stress. [4:34] * Brandi makes the point that connection to clients can be lost when a chiropractor is lost in their own survival mechanisms. [14:20] * Dr. Hall shares the connection between depression and exercise, the effect stress has on our neurological system, and how to handle adrenal fatigue. [18:36] * Looking at the different needs male chiropractors have. [32:02] * Creating a training program for chiropractors to help them reduce stress and be the best chiropractors they can be. [41:40] * Why just losing weight doesn’t make you healthier. [44:35] * Brandi describes the steps necessary to maintain a state of ease. [49:28]
Learn More: BrainDC Website
Changing Lives by Restoring the Curve with Dr. Michael Hall
Building Sustainable, Long-term, Healthy Relationships with Brandi MacDonald
Sipping Brandi: Facebook Wisdom for Extraordinary Chiropractors and Teams
True Concept Seminars
Dr. Don MacDonald
The Underdog Curse: The Cause, The Cure and The Road to Success
@DrDonMacDonald on Twitter
Dr. Don MacDonald on Facebook
We, humans, have three majors drivers. Genetics gives us innate tendencies or instincts, social systems encourage us to adopt certain beliefs and ways of being, and our ego grants us our identity and self-acceptance. When all of these aspects are in alignment and we lift the veils we can truly become who we are as a person. If we take the extra step out of our comfort zone we are able to reach a state of flow. Chiropractors can achieve flow by being healthy, staying in their zone, and by increasing patient volume incrementally by 4%.
Today, I am not speaking with a chiropractor from an exotic location. As we reach 100 shows, I am in my office reflecting on some of my favorite podcast episodes and the episodes with the most downloads.
During this podcast episode, I review lessons from Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi’s books Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience, and The Evolving Self. I share our top six downloaded podcast episodes and highlights from episodes that contained vital information for keeping our group of dedicated vitalistic chiropractors healthy, happy, and in the know with regards to topics that affect our practices.
Need some inspiration for your next staff meeting? Brandi MacDonald’s new book, Sipping Brandi: Facebook Wisdom for Extraordinary Chiropractors and Teams is now available on Amazon or your favorite bookseller.
Key Takeaways: * Dr. Don shares feedback and thank you’s from the planners and speakers from Shift Unplugged Australia. [1:10] * Lessons from Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi's books Flow and The Evolving Self. [5:00] * The Three Veils are the genetic, social, and ego. [14:43] * Dr. Don reviews the Top 6 Breaking the Underdog Curse podcast episodes from this past year. [27:14] * Highlights of our favorite conversations from the past 99 podcast episodes. [35:07]
Learn More: True Concept Seminars
Dr. Don MacDonald
The Underdog Curse: The Cause, The Cure and The Road to Success
@DrDonMacDonald on Twitter
Dr. Don MacDonald on Facebook
Our bustling daily schedules may make us lose sight of the fact that we are healers. Chiropractors have the ability to elevate human consciousness by adjusting subluxations which allows the body and mind to function at their highest level. Unleashing the body’s innate abilities is a gift we must protect. To best protect our practices, we must unite to ensure the current political atmosphere remains in the best interests of our patients.
Today we travel to Sydney, Australia to speak again with Dr. Nimrod Weiner, who writes a blog worthy of reading twice and sharing repeatedly. Through his writing, he tackles deep-rooted, vitalistic subject matter and offers courses of action designed to bring chiropractors together to present a united front.
During this podcast episode, Dr. Weiner reveals his three most popular blog posts and adds his personal, inspirational thoughts about each, he solidifies his position as a true believer and broadcaster of the philosophy of chiropractic, and offers advice to chiropractors who feel they don’t have a say in the political ties that bind them.
Need some inspiration for your next staff meeting? Brandi MacDonald’s new book, Sipping Brandi: Facebook Wisdom for Extraordinary Chiropractors and Teams is now available on Amazon or your favorite bookseller.
Key Takeaways: * Dr. Weiner’s blog is a politically-charged outlet empowering chiropractors to make their own decisions about their future. [1:33] * The burgeoning grassroots efforts and ‘Rally 5’ local groups that unite chiropractors. [9:28] * How Australian chiropractors work together to change policies and assist each other in becoming successful. [10:21] * Dr. Weiner explores three of his most popular posts, On Experiencing Magnificence, Chiropractic’s: 3 Chains of Logic, and Passively Watching its Demise... [12:47] * From a global perspective, the chiropractic philosophy, paradigm, and principles can help elevate humanity. [34:50] * Words of inspiration from Dr. Weiner for chiropractors about the role they play in caring for humanity. [38:53]
Nimrod Weiner Blog
Creating Congruence with Your Practice with Dr. Nimrod Weiner
True Concept Seminars
Dr. Don MacDonald
The Underdog Curse: The Cause, The Cure and The Road to Success
@DrDonMacDonald on Twitter
Dr. Don MacDonald on Facebook
There are numerous aspects to running a chiropractic practice. In addition to patient care, a chiropractor must keep abreast of the latest technology, keep the office running smoothly, make sure the ledger is in the black, and maintain a healthy balance in their personal and professional life. The latter is imperative because if burnout sets it, it can be the most difficult to rectify. A healthy chiropractor is an essential part of having a healthy practice.
Today we travel to just outside of Chicago to Batavia, Illinois to speak with Dr. Dave Hanson who is the primary chiropractor of Hanson Family Chiropractic. An injury led him to a chiropractor who relieved 90% of his pain after a single visit. Shortly after, he decided to leave the sales job he despised, sell his house, and become a student at the National University of Health Sciences.
During this podcast episode, Dr. Dave shares his transition from tech sales to chiropractic care, the turmoil he endured when the adjustments he gave his wife didn’t assist in healing her from a degenerative disease, and how subluxation scans have improved his conversations and wellness plans for patients.
Need some inspiration for your next staff meeting? Brandi MacDonald’s new book, Sipping Brandi: Facebook Wisdom for Extraordinary Chiropractors and Teams is now available on Amazon or your favorite bookseller.
Key Takeaways: * After a chiropractor alleviated Dr. Dave’s pain, he decided to leave a job he hated to pursue chiropractic. [3:19] * Dr. Dave was on a quest to clarity before opening his practice which led him to a profound mindset shift. [8:49] * To build his practice Dr. Dave relied upon family and friends to make referrals because he was apprehensive about doing screenings. [12:27] * To cope with fatigue and burnout, Dr. Dave brought a friend and fellow chiropractor in as an associate. [18:41] * Dr. Dave questioned his abilities after the adjustments he was giving his wife weren't offering her relief. [25:38] * Subluxation scans offer objective measures to even out the responsibility line between a chiropractor and patient. [32:26] * Common questions patients have about scan data. [41:48] * Give yourself a break and let yourself breathe is Dr. Dave’s advice. [48:43]
Learn More: Hanson Family Chiropractic
INSIGHT CLA Scan
True Concept Seminars
Dr. Don MacDonald
The Underdog Curse: The Cause, The Cure and The Road to Success
@DrDonMacDonald on Twitter
Dr. Don MacDonald on Facebook
Summary The people you surround yourself with can have a major impact on your life, work, and attitude. Finding your tribe might just be the most important thing you can do to help yourself see the world, and your practice in a new, inspirational light. Working with others who have tried and tested office processes, patient services, and community involvement can lessen the time it takes to achieve your goals and build a thriving practice.
Today we travel to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to speak with Emily Miller an integral part of the team who provides high-level care and psychological comfort to children at Life Potential Chiropractic. Emily and her husband, Dr. Tony Miller attended our Vitality Shift seminar and the Transformers Mastermind.
During this podcast episode, Emily shares how she overcame Crohn's disease, her journey to chiropractic, how she and Tony built their practice by partnering with teachers and schools, and how she overcame her challenges to find her personal truth.
Join our next Transformers Mastermind in Toronto, September 6th & 7th.
Key Takeaways: * Emily explains her first and second introduction to chiropractic care, [2:19] * After working with children in a local hospital, Emily left her job to open a practice with her husband. [8:56] * Building a patient roster was Emily’s primary goal when first opening the practice. [12:02] * Emily’s thirst for additional knowledge about chiropractic led her to attend a Vitality Shift Seminar. [16:48] * Emily has the opportunity to provide psychological comfort when speaking with parents about a child’s diagnosis. [20:40] * Emily shares the ups and downs of being a married couple in the same office. [27:30] * Emily describes the board breaking and goal writing exercises from the Transformers Mastermind. [31:00] * Parting words of wisdom from Emily about finding herself while obtaining her goals. [48:50]
Learn More: Life Potential Chiropractic
True Concept Seminars
Dr. Don MacDonald
The Underdog Curse: The Cause, The Cure and The Road to Success
@DrDonMacDonald on Twitter
Dr. Don MacDonald on Facebook
Meeting face-to-face with other chiropractors in the community can build beneficial bonds and lead to exciting new ventures. Working together strengthens our local practices as well as the international chiropractic community as a whole. Graduating students of chiropractic can gain knowledge from the lessons and research of veteran practitioners. Connecting with each other on a human level is how we will move forward.
Today we drop into New Zealand, to speak with a man who has been instrumental in building the chiropractic community there, Dr. Phil McMaster. He is the President and one of the original Founders of the New Zealand College of Chiropractic. He also served as the Chairman of the New Zealand Chiropractic Education Trust Board.
During this podcast episode, we discuss the early days of attending a chiropractic college and how it’s changed, the importance of useful research to the chiropractic community, leadership, tolerance, and how when we work together we all win.
The next Vitality Shift Immersion Day is in Montreal, Canada on November 2, 2019. Register to attend here.
Key Takeaways: * Dr. McMaster attended a chiropractic career seminar and made the decision to become a chiropractor but had never had an adjustment before. [2:00] * To build his new practice, Dr. McMaster moved to a place he loved and made connections through his love of rugby, his kids, and by sponsoring local events. [8:18] * Chiropractic is a lifestyle so even when taking breaks, Dr. McMaster was hanging out with other chiropractors. [12:59] * The Chiropractic First New Zealand Limited group was formed by friends who then created the New Zealand College of Chiropractic. [14:37] * Dr. McMaster describes the closely linked network of chiropractors in New Zealand and how they work together to resolve issues. [22:02] * The research agenda at the college is nurtured by collaborating with outside organizations and led by the college’s pioneer students. [33:56] * Dr. McMaster’s advice for new or chiropractors who want to connect with others. [43:43]
Learn More: New Zealand College of Chiropractic
True Concept Seminars
Dr. Don MacDonald
The Underdog Curse: The Cause, The Cure and The Road to Success
@DrDonMacDonald on Twitter
Dr. Don MacDonald on Facebook
Our individual communication style is an accumulation of a lifetime of personal experiences. But the language we use at home or with friends may not seamlessly integrate into our practices. The people we depend on to keep our offices running smoothly and efficiently need to feel valued for their contributions, They also need to be empowered to perform their duties with minimal direction.
Today, Brandi MacDonald joins me to discuss tips on how chiropractors can successfully integrate the salutogenesis framework of care in a pathogenetically regulated environment. She also does a deep dive into interoffice communications based on her previous Chiropractic Assistant classes, and what attendees can expect from the Shift Immersion Program, the Shift Unplugged Seminar, and the Transformers Mastermind.
Key Takeaways:
- ● For chiropractors, practicing the salutogenesis framework of care can be difficult in a pathogenetically regulated environment. [1:08]
- ● Could you be devaluing your Chiropractic Assistant (CA) without recognizing it? [14:06]
- ● Why a simple question is the best way to improve office communications. [23:26]
- ● What NOT to take away from this podcast and the importance of debriefing. [29:43]
- ● What can Chiropractors and CA’s expect from the Shift Immersion Program and Shift Unplugged? [32:36]
- ● The Transformers Mastermind is an intimate gathering for in-depth communications training. [37:28]
- Learn More:
- Brandi MacDonald Website
- Brandi MacDonald on Facebook
- True Concept Seminars
- Dr. Don MacDonald
- The Underdog Curse: The Cause, The Cure and The Road to Success
- @DrDonMacDonald on Twitter
- Dr. Don MacDonald on Facebook
How many of us stick with a plan even if it doesn’t seem to be working? How many of us are feeling run down and burnout but keep pushing ourselves to the limit beyond what is healthy? If you are doing either of these things, know that it is okay to re-work your plan, course correct, and be realistic with your expectations.
Today, Amy Robinson joins Doctor Don to share how she continuously course corrects. She also discusses her journey into the field of chiropractic. Like many guests, Amy suffered a sports injury that other types of medical treatments couldn’t help her to heal. She was told she would have to stop running but it was an option she wouldn’t accept. After visiting a chiropractor who relieved her symptoms in just 6-months, Amy knew she would study and then practice chiropractic as her life’s passion.
During this episode, Amy discusses starting a new practice after selling her previous one, the mental fatigue that can accompany running a successful business, being a parent while running a practice, what she does to build her referral network, and how structure has given her freedom.
Key Takeaways: * A sports injury left Amy searching for a model of healing that worked with the body’s natural healing abilities. [2:27] * Amy shares her chiropractic school experience and offers some advice to current chiropractic students. [7:24] * Amy discusses the experience of opening her own practice, gaining confidence, selling a practice, and the importance of building relationships and community. [11:23] * Amy created the ‘Dinner with the Doc’ event to help grow her new practice and build her referral network. [20:59] * Dealing with mental fatigue and burnout as a chiropractor and parent. [28:47] * The importance of structure in order to attain freedom. [36:24] * Amy’s parting advice — Give yourself time to course correct and you are enough. [42:31]
Learn More: Dinner with the Doc on Facebook
The Shift Unplugged Seminar — Gold Coast May 31 - June 1
Dr. Don MacDonald
The Underdog Curse: The Cause, The Cure and The Road to Success
@DrDonMacDonald on Twitter
Dr. Don MacDonald on Facebook
Believe it or not, the entire country of Ireland only has approximately 100 Chiropractors. The professionals and the services they provide are unregulated and they just recently lost their ability to x-ray patients. In an atmosphere such as this, raising public awareness is key to helping chiropractic offices thrive.
Today, Dr. Stuart Kelly joins the podcast to discuss the steps he is taking to bring international speakers to Ireland’s chiropractic stage and the early influences that led him to become a Chiropractor and a Life Coach. He shares the mindful practices that allow him to balance his life and practice, and help him avoid the dreaded burnout period.
During this episode, we discuss the importance of partnering with other countries to bring about regulation and growth, how seminars and other events can raise awareness of your purpose, and the benefits of finding the right mentor early in your career.
Key Takeaways: * After having a back injury healed by a chiropractor, a 17-year-old Stuart decided to attend a program at ACC. [2:19] * Stuart explains the limited chiropractic influences available to him during his studies. [8:07] * After some soul searching and a few Demartini moments, Stuart was determined to build his practice based on his values. [14:17] * Becoming certified as a Life Coach brought balance to Stuart’s life and practice. [23:03] * Tips to reduce burnout and increase life satisfaction. [27:36] * Stuart hopes this years ‘I Chiro’ event will raise chiropractic awareness in Ireland. [31:31]
Learn More: Premier Chiropractic
I Chiro Event — For information and to register
The Shift Unplugged Seminar — Gold Coast May 31 - June 1
Dr. Don MacDonald
The Underdog Curse: The Cause, The Cure and The Road to Success
@DrDonMacDonald on Twitter
Dr. Don MacDonald on Facebook
Understanding why you are doing something can be just as important as taking on the task itself, especially when running your own practice. As we become more seasoned in our profession we all evolve our techniques and strategies to better serve our clients. One area of a practice where early adoption can be essential for growing your practice is business management.
Today, Dr. Paul Needham joins us from New Zealand to share his personal chiropractic late bloomer story and the knowledge he has gained along his journey. Paul bought an existing practice just four months after graduating from chiropractic college. All the facilities were in place but some essentials were missing. Mainly, a quality front office team and basic business management skills.
During this episode, we discuss the skills necessary for new chiropractic graduates, the importance of focusing on your core function in your practice, and the benefits of coaching, seminars, and knowing your purpose.
Key Takeaways: * Paul shares his origin story. [1:01] * How Paul’s chiropractic technique has changed over the years. [10:13] * After buying his practice just 4 months out of school, Paul knew the value of a chiropractic adjustment but needed to tweak other aspects of the business. [17:10] * The importance of front office staff and creating a statement of purpose for the practice. [22:13] * The biggest shift in Paul’s business was a procedural manual, figuring out the why, and coaching. [32:34] * If Paul could go back and speak with his younger self he would recommend getting some coaching about running a business. [36:15] * Solid advice for knowing who you are and what you stand for to help grow your practice. [50:54]
Learn More: The Shift Unplugged Seminar — Gold Coast May 31 - June 1
Dr. Don McDonald
The Underdog Curse: The Cause, The Cure and The Road to Success
@DrDonMacDonald on Twitter
Dr. Don MacDonald on Facebook
Summary
The chiropractic profession seems to be under fire lately, all around the globe. Bad press, passionate politicians, and other medical practitioners have their own reasons for criticism. So, how we respond to the adversity will be what defines us. There are effective strategies for handling difficult conversations especially when they are emotionally charged. Let’s use these encounters as an opportunity for growth and connection with the people we serve.
Today, Martin Harvey supplies us with communication strategies to change adverse, even unfavorable perceptions within moments. These tried and true, affirming practices go beyond logic and leave an emotional impression of understanding and trust. Both amiable and drivers will find benefit in these strategies.
During this episode, Martin discusses examples of how to manage your emotions and react when approached with a difficult topic, how to create connection by asking permission before you share your beliefs, and a technique that can change people’s perceptions.
Key Takeaways:
- ● How to create opportunities when bad press brings you challenges. [1:50]
- ● Don’t go unhinged: Strategies for managing your emotions. [5:58]
- ● Establish credibility and connection before stating your case. [14:44]
- ● How to ask permission before offering your perspective. [23:10]
- ● Yes, and — Using your power to move a person toward a different perception. [31:23]
- ● Chiropractic has the potential to change the health of the world. [40:26]
- Learn More:
- Inside Out Practices
- The Shift Unplugged Seminar — Gold Coast May 31 - June 1
- Dr. Don McDonald
- The Underdog Curse: The Cause, The Cure and The Road to Success
- @DrDonMacDonald on Twitter
- Dr. Don MacDonald on Facebook
Summary How important are referrals in growing your practice? For most of us, the answer is: very important. If you live in Australia where chiropractors face restrictions such as the inability to advertise, no use of testimonials or case studies, qualified referrals can be the lifeblood of your practice. So, what are the best practices to gain the right kind of referrals without taking time away from your patient care?
Today, Craig Foote share tips from The Art of Inspiring Referrals program he designed as part of his Chiropractic Flight School resource. The resource includes videos, an online library, and in-person workshops loaded with information to assist chiropractors and their staff to further their skills and grow their practices.
During this episode, Craig discusses the current political environment for chiropractic in Australia, tips for inspiring current clients to become qualified referrers, and the framework for research funding and the current activities of The Spinal Research Foundation of Australia
Key Takeaways: * Craig describes the current restrictive state of chiropractic in Australia. [2:16] * The current guidelines for chiropractors in Australia vary state by state. [12:44] * Even when things are difficult, it is change that brings about growth. [16:17] * Craig shares tips from his The Art of Inspiring Referrals program. [17:55] * The vision and structure of Australia’s Spinal Research Foundation. [38:36]
Learn More: Chiropractic Flight School
Australia's Spinal Research Foundation
The Shift Unplugged Seminar — Gold Coast May 31 - June 1
Dr. Don McDonald
The Underdog Curse: The Cause, The Cure and The Road to Success
@DrDonMacDonald on Twitter
Dr. Don MacDonald on Facebook
Summary When your profession chooses you it is imperative you stay on course no matter what tries to slow you down. Whether it be a life-changing illness or a major setback, the will to continue on your quest will determine how clients perceive you and your ability to alter their health for the better.
Today, Sabrina shares her journey of becoming a chiropractor. Her teenage years were strife with debilitating headaches until a family friend recommended a chiropractor. Within months of treatments, her pain was relieved and her new life path became clear. She would study chiropractic and serve people the way she had been served. And, later when Lyme disease threatened her vitality, how she holistically got rid of it.
During this episode, Sabrina discusses her less than optimum chiropractic college experience, the speakers and students who made a lasting impact on her, the disease no one thought she would overcome, how her love of public speaking helped grow her business, and what inspired her to promote her favorite Brandi bombs.
Get your free ‘6-Steps for Increasing Your Retention in a Vitalistic Model’ download from TheVitalityShift.com!
Key Takeaways: * Sabrina suffered for years with chronic headaches until a chiropractic experience changed her life. [1:29] * Even though the subject matter was lacking, Sabrina found inspiration in guest speakers and in other students during her years in chiropractic college. [7:07] * After two associate positions, Sabrina opened her current practice and beat the pavement by public speaking and offering free health classes to get clients. [17:28] * How to tap into your client’s network to gain new clients. [22:16] * How Sabrina rid herself of Lyme disease through natural healthcare practices. [27:21] * What motivated Sabrina to help compile Brandi’s Facebook posts into the book, Sipping Brandi. [45:09]
Learn More: The Shift Unplugged Seminar — Gold Coast May 31 - June 1
Dr. Don McDonald
The Underdog Curse: The Cause, The Cure and The Road to Success
@DrDonMacDonald on Twitter
Dr. Don MacDonald on Facebook
Are you making an impact in other people’s lives? The impact you make is your value. And, promoting your value should be an integral part of marketing and branding strategy. When you promote your value clients don’t feel as if you are selling to them, they see you as solving their problems. Isn’t it nice to feel valued by clients for the work you do?
Today, I have an amazing underdog story to share with you. Steve Sims joins me on the podcast to discuss his journey from an unsatisfied bricklayer to completely content world-class concierge. He is the Founder of Bluefish, a company that is known for getting the affluent whatever they want whenever they want it.
During this episode, Steve shares how he helps people do the impossible, how he created his own business without realizing it, and his advice for growing a business.
Get your free ‘6-Steps for Increasing Your Retention in a Vitalistic Model’ download from TheVitalityShift.com!
Key Takeaways:
- ● Steve describes his journey of never accepting something that brought him discomfort. [1:52]
- ● How Steve became ‘The Man that Can’ with his own concierge company. [9:10]
- ● Steve wrote Bluefishing: The Art of Making Things Happen to help entrepreneurs get out of their own way. [14:31]
- ● The best sales technique is to solve, not sell.[20:31]
- ● How to connect with the clients you want. [30:30]
- Learn More:
- Steve D. Sims Website
- Text ‘SIMS’ to 345345 to connect with Steve
- The Art of Making Things Happen Podcast
- The Shift Unplugged Seminar — Gold Coast May 31 - June 1
- Dr. Don McDonald
- The Underdog Curse: The Cause, The Cure and The Road to Success
- @DrDonMacDonald on Twitter
- Dr. Don MacDonald on Facebook
What do you think of when you hear the word rigid? As a Chiropractor, you probably visualize the adjustments necessary to bring someone into alignment. But what if the inflexibility, the rigidity exists in the mind? We move past barriers by setting a discipline. Then, we are able to create space for ourselves and explore our creativity, create new habits, and live in flow.
What rituals have you settled into that no longer serve you or your practice?
Today, my wife, Brandi MacDonald rejoins the podcast. Brandi is a speaker, author, and coach. Her soon to be released book, Sipping Brandi, is a collection of her Facebook posts and blogs written for Chiropractors and their staff. She helps Chiropractors to break free of what is blocking their personal growth and the growth of their practice.
During this episode, Brandi and I share the highlights from the Shift Unplugged Phoenix, details about the upcoming Shift Unplugged in the Gold Coast, the Sipping Brandi book launch, and our take on the obstacles to overcome from the book, Flow.
Key Takeaways: * Highlights from Shift Unplugged in Phoenix: Making connections with like-minded people, sourcing wisdom, and support for Chiropractors. [1:08] * Tips on how to create a space for creativity by setting disciplines. [7:59] * Reviewing the Three Veils to Overcome from Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi’s book, Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience. [14:32] * What Chiropractors can expect from the upcoming Shift Unplugged in the Gold Coast, Australia. [28:55] * Sipping Brandi is a compilation of Brandi’s Facebook posts and blogs designed for neurologically-focused Chiropractors and their staff. [32:21]
Learn More: Brandi MacDonald Website
Brandi MacDonald on Facebook
The Shift Unplugged Seminar — Gold Coast May 31 - June 1
Dr. Don MacDonald
The Underdog Curse: The Cause, The Cure and The Road to Success
@DrDonMacDonald on Twitter
Dr. Don MacDonald on Facebook
What is unique about chiropractic care? How you answer this question defines the success of chiropractors everywhere. Because without our philosophy we are nothing. Every person under your care deserves your best intention. It is through you that their quality of life will improve.
Today, we welcome Dr. Donald Francis back to the podcast. Currently practicing in Scotland, Dr. Francis is a Palmer College graduate who is continuously researching and applying new techniques, including Sacro Occipital Technique, to enhance his patient’s condition and care plan. Many of his clients who are suffering from incurable illnesses have seen noticeable improvements since being adjusted.
During this episode, Dr. Francis shares his desire to empower chiropractors to confidently assess and adjust their clients, real patient success stories, and why some might consider him a dirty, rotten, Vitalistic Chiropractor.
Key Takeaways: * Dr. Francis sings the praises of Palmer Chiropractic College Technique Department. [2:38] * Most chiropractors go through a ‘technique’ evolution. [9:44] * People with ALS, NMD, Parkinsons, and other incurable illnesses have experienced significant improvements after adjustments. [16:14] * Dr. Francis uses SOT principles when applying the technical process of moving cranial spinal fluid and dura mater membranes. [28:20] * Mastering the Adjustment of Complex Segments is a seminar in the UK that equips chiropractors with the confidence to assess and adjust. [43:19]
Learn More: Dr. Donald Francis - Podcast Episode #1, June 6, 2018
Mastering the Adjustment of Complex Segments Seminar, UK
The Shift Unplugged Seminar — Gold Coast June 2019
Dr. Don McDonald
The Underdog Curse: The Cause, The Cure and The Road to Success
@DrDonMacDonald on Twitter
Dr. Don MacDonald on Facebook
Summary Little things can make a big difference in how you show up in your practice. If you want to provide the best care for your patients, take care of yourself first. Getting sufficient restful sleep, slowing down, and replenishing your energy will help you deliver high-quality care and more closely align with what you want your practice to reflect.
Today, we welcome Dr. Laura Foster who practices in Newmarket Ontario. Her 20-year Chiropractic career started at Palmer College of Chiropractic and through determination and grassroots efforts she created a successful family practice. In addition, she facilitates wellness retreats in mind-blowingly peaceful destinations like Costa Rica and Rock Mountain in British Columbia.
During this episode, Dr. Foster shares how she knew Chiropractic was the only practice for her, her experience with the Chiropractic Leadership Alliance, and how she staves off burn out through self-care.
Key Takeaways: * After an injury during medical school, Laura ‘found’ Chiropractic more welcoming than the sanitized hospital environment. [1:24] * The importance of being able to shift the way you think about Chiropractic. [6:16] * Dr. Foster realized the importance of getting adjustments and keeping herself well during her apprenticeship as she served a large number of patients. [9:05] * Dr. Foster shares her experience with the Chiropractic Leadership Alliance Program. [15:37] * Getting out of the office and knocking on doors was the key to Dr. Foster growing her business. [18:35] * How to turn desperation energy or burn out into a success story. [25:59] * Dr. Foster created Soul Inspired Retreats to blend her love of serving people with her love of travel. [35:40]
Learn More: Dr. Laura Foster Retreats & More
Foster Family Chiropractic
Chiropractic Leadership Alliance Program
The Shift Unplugged Seminar — Gold Coast June 2019
Dr. Don McDonald
The Underdog Curse: The Cause, The Cure and The Road to Success
@DrDonMacDonald on Twitter
Dr. Don MacDonald on Facebook
Being in service and healing others is the philosophical foundation of chiropractic care. But for some, growing a practice and making as much money as possible can muddle the nature of our profession. Burn out can creep up on those who have forgotten their purpose, or the why behind their predilection for Chiropractic.
Today, we welcome Dr. Patrick Sim who practices in Adelaide Australia. Dr. Sim believes all chiropractors should be in service to their patients and paying it forward. So much so, that he helped to create the Australian Chiropractic College Initiative.
During this episode, Dr. Sim describes the lure of bio-geometric integration, the roadblocks he and other chiropractors face in Australia, and what led him into politics and ultimately to create an educational facility that focuses on healing, not churning out pain-based chiropractors.
Key Takeaways: * Sports and social events dominated Dr. Sim's university life while chiropractic didn't become his focus until after joining a practice. [1:51] * Applying the chiropractic philosophy through adjustments to patients allowed Dr. Sim to see the difference he was making in people's lives. [10:06] * Dr. Sim attracted patients through local advertising, but by far the largest contributor to the growth of his business was word of mouth. [14:52] * Getting back to the primary principle of being in service to others kept burnout at bay. [17:27] * In an effort to protect the true nature of chiropractic care, Dr. Sim helped to create the Australian Chiropractic College Initiative. [19:37] * What can a chiropractor do to help the ACC initiative? [35:27]
Learn More: The Australian Chiropractic College Initiative
Spinal Research Foundation
Dr. Don McDonald
The Underdog Curse: The Cause, The Cure and The Road to Success
@DrDonMacDonald on Twitter
Dr. Don MacDonald on Facebook
At times, people tend to be this other person that people want them to be. One can’t fully embrace or be in their top shape for their practice or profession if they’re not themselves. They worry too much of what other people would say instead of living their life for themselves. We have only one life and the best way to live it is to be you.
On this episode, we have Dr. Sharon Dongarra. She graduated from Life University in 2010. She is currently practicing in Baltimore and specializes with kids.
Dr. Sharon talks about how chiropractic had helped with her depression and it paved the way for her to pursue the practice. She also shares how she deals with anxiety and gives advice on being true to oneself. Get all the resources for this episode and listen to more at http://www.drdonmacdonald.com/
Age is just a number as a lot of people would say. Sometimes, people would hesitate to venture out or take risks because they think they’re old or too young for it. Let not age hinder what we want to achieve. It is not the basis for one’s success. Live the dream that you aim for.
On this episode, we have Dr. Ben Purcell. He graduated from Macquarie University in 2008 and is currently practicing in Australia.
Dr. Ben talks about how he got into Chiropractic. He shares his journey into his successful practice. He also shares what has changed when he took the shift. Get all the resources for this episode and listen to more at http://www.drdonmacdonald.com/
Almost everyone wants to get quick results or outcome in any given situation. This is a human condition though. However, there are certain situations that this doesn't really apply. Sometimes we need to learn to delay gratification. In delaying gratification, we may be able to fully get the results that we are expecting. This may not be easy but it can be learned.
On this episode, we have Brandi MacDonald. She talks about the importance of objective findings in easing the frustration of both the patients and chiropractors when results are not seen and how objective findings can help with delaying gratification. Get all the resources for this episode and listen to more at http://www.drdonmacdonald.com/
Sometimes, people don't say what they want. At times, these are influenced by the people that surround them. People may want a certain thing because everybody wants it or everybody’s doing it. In doing so, we may not feel genuine happiness once we accomplished it. It’s best to be clear on what we really want.
On this episode, we have Dr. Craig Hazel. He graduated from Parker College of Chiropractic in 2004. He is currently the president of the AFC (Alliance for Chiropractic in Ontario).
Dr. Craig talks about how he was able to discover chiropractic and his journey to become a chiropractor. He also shares about his experiences when he was starting out with his practice and how he managed to grow his practice. He also talks about his leadership in the AFC. Get all the resources for this episode and listen to more at http://www.drdonmacdonald.com/
Growth in different aspects of a person does not end. It may pertain to personality, emotions, or even way of thinking. What is important is there is the willingness to grow. For some people, confidence is really hard to grow. However, with the help of the people that surrounds you and most importantly, it should come from yourself.
On this episode, we have Dr. Pier Tierney, who is originally from Canada. She completed her degree in Chiropractic in Australia in 2009.
Dr. Pier talks about how she got into chiropractic. She shares about being able to balance the practice and avoiding burn out. She also shares about gaining confidence. Get all the resources for this episode and listen to more at http://www.drdonmacdonald.com/
For some people who are starting their practice, you can begin with a small practice. You don’t have to start with a big practice right away.
Starting with a small practice lets you grow your practice with you. You may experience struggles and trials while growing the practice and this is normal. These experiences will surely help you in your practice or personal life later on.
On this episode, we have Dr. Theo Koenen. He graduated from Parker College of Chiropractic in 1999 and he’ll be hosting a big seminar in Portugal.
Dr. Theo talks about how his chiropractic practice started. He shares his journey in growing his practice and provides ways on how not to experience burn out. Get all the resources for this episode and listen to more at http://www.drdonmacdonald.com/
In every practice or service, there are strengths and weaknesses. At times, people are oblivious of these weaknesses. These weaknesses can come from a person’s personality, process or financial aspect. There are ways to know and combat these weaknesses. One of them is feedback. Getting feedback gives the people the opportunity to learn and from these learnings comes wisdom.
On this episode, we have Brandi MacDonald. She shares her thoughts about the top learnings from working with Chiropractors. She also shares what could be done on those learnings like for example, people don’t want what they say they want to serve as a guide to people, especially chiropractors, to do better in their practice. Get all the resources for this episode and listen to more at http://www.drdonmacdonald.com/
When one has the passion for the things they do or their profession, it is the road to success. It could also mean that one is inspired from within. If Chiropractors are inspired from within, wherever they will be, it will mean success in what they’re doing with the inclusion of confidence and faith in what they have.
On this episode, we have Dr. Chuck Ribley. He graduated from Palmer College of Chiropractic in 1960. He is a co-founder of Life University and was the spearhead in seeing it through its accreditation. He helps out today as a consultant to the Board at Life University.
Dr. Ribley talks about his journey with Chiropractic. He shares the beginning of Life University and the challenges they faced with it. He also provides helpful suggestions for the underdogs in the profession. Get all the resources for this episode and listen to more at http://www.drdonmacdonald.com/
There are times that people feel exhausted with their business or profession. There are a lot of ways to cope with this exhaustion. One thing is to look after yourself. You need to take care of your self first before you can be able to serve others. You can also result in other activities that make you happy which is totally outside your profession or business.
On this episode, we have Dr. Alison Young. Dr. Alison talks about how she got into chiropractic, and how she deals with burn out. She also shares some of her top self-care tips.
Get all the resources for this episode and listen to more at http://www.drdonmacdonald.com/
There are a lot of ways to be successful in a business or a profession. It is a little bit of everything. Every aspect should be accounted for. It can be from your certainty in your abilities to how you deal with your customers. Each person has his/her own road to success. As long as you and your customers’ beliefs are aligned, then you’re on the right track.
On this episode, we have Dr. Martin Harvey. He talks about his idea of certainty and how it applies to the profession. He also talks about tying communication with his procedures and provides tips about retention. Get all the resources for this episode and listen to more at http://www.drdonmacdonald.com/
Every person has their own needs and wants in life. It differs for everyone. The needs and wants of one person may not be as important to the other person. This also applies to any profession or service.
For chiropractors, being sensitive to the people that you adjust is important. Some people are receptive to delicate touch while others may need a different approach. When providing service, it must be catered to the customer’s needs.
On this episode, we have Dr. Peter Kevorkian. He talks about his journey on how he was able to find his own technique for c+hiropractic. He shares on how he's able to flex back and forth between his techniques. He also provides tips on how to stay consistent in providing chiropractic service. Get all the resources for this episode and listen to more at http://www.drdonmacdonald.com/
There could be a lot of barriers to something that you love to do. It could be distance, money, and a whole lot of factors. However, if you are driven and passionate, you will be able to overcome it.
If you love what you’re doing, you’ll find a thousand ways to make it work. You just have to believe in yourself and never give up.
On this episode, we have Dr. Jorge Campos. He graduated from Palmer College of Chiropractic and is currently practicing chiropractic in Chile.
Dr. Jorge talks about how chiropractic was introduced to him. He also shares how he was able to survive studying in the U.S. and how he was able to overcome the struggles of practicing chiropractic in his country. Get all the resources for this episode and listen to more at http://www.drdonmacdonald.com/
Sometimes, people tend to overthink. They are scared to do or take the next step in their practice or profession for the thought that it might not work in their favor.
The more time that we spend on thinking on the bad things that will happen, we lose the opportunity to grow. Take that step and you’ll never know, it might be the best thing that will happen to you.
On this episode, we have Dr. Keltie Warren. She graduated from Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College last 2013. She owns Warren’s Chiropractic Café of life.
Dr. Keltie talks about how she got into Chiropractic. She shares her struggles with the practice and how she was able to overcome it. She also provided tips on how to be able to practice chiropractic successfully. Get all the resources for this episode and listen to more at http://www.drdonmacdonald.com/
Sometimes we are at crossroads of what we really want to do with our life or what our purpose is. For some who have found their purpose, they are fortunate.
One way to know if what we’re doing is right is if it creates a sense of ease in ourselves. Everything becomes easier because it has become your passion.
On this episode, we have Dr. Peter Amlinger. Dr. Peter Amlinger graduated at the top of his class from CMCC in 1985, and has maintained a family oriented principle based practice in Mississauga since that time.
Dr. Peter talks about how got into chiropractic and his experiences. He also shares how it was easy for him to dedicate his life to the principle, to the profession and to the humanity. Get all the resources for this episode and listen to more at http://www.drdonmacdonald.com/
Chiropractic is important not only to humans but also to animals too. It does not only limit to domestic animals but also includes adjusting animals that are part of the food supply. Being able to perform chiropractic on animals provides a lot of benefits not only to the animal itself but also to the environment.
On this episode, we have Dr. Bill Ormston. He received a BS in Animal Science in 1982 and a veterinary degree in 1982, both from Iowa State University. He became a certified Animal Chiropractor in 1998.
Dr. Bill talks about how he got into Animal Chiropractic and his experiences adjusting animals. He also shares the effects of adjusting animals to the community. Get all the resources for this episode and listen to more at http://www.drdonmacdonald.com/
Struggles and hardships are always present whenever pursuing a career. There comes a point in your journey where you feel that you are astray but never lose faith. Focus on your goals and believe in what you are doing for you will reap the rewards of your hard work.
On this episode, we have Dr. Frank Vaught Jr. He is the founder and owner of Health on Earth Wellness Centers. Dr. Vaught is a community leader for personal health and wellness, and an inspirational speaker.
Dr. Frank talks about how he got into chiropractic and his experiences starting out in the business. He also shares how he’s mentoring other chiropractors. Get all the resources for this episode and listen to more at http://www.drdonmacdonald.com/
Starting out in an industry is never easy. There will always be hardships and struggles. It goes with the saying that “Success doesn’t happen overnight”. We may experience that everything that we hoped and planned for didn’t follow through. Learn from the struggles and then re-invent it.
On this episode, we have Dr. Patrick McMahon. He graduated at Parker University in 2002 with a Bachelor in Science in Human Anatomy, Chiropractic. He’s one of the founders of Syntropy Chiropractic Training.
Dr. Patrick talks about how he was introduced to Chiropractic and shares his journey in this profession. He also gives helpful tips to those who are starting out in the Chiropractic industry. Get all the resources for this episode and listen to more at http://www.drdonmacdonald.com/
How do we lead a conversation?
Not many people have the skill to lead a conversation. Leading a conversation does not only pertain on how to lead conversation but also on how not to stomp conversation.
For someone to have this skill is a great advantage however it takes time and experience to acquire it. Once this skill is practiced, it can definitely bring good results not only to one’s profession but also for personal development.
On this episode, we have Brandi MacDonald. She talks about steps that can help in successfully leading a conversation and how it can help the profession, especially for chiropractors. She shares that the biggest trait in leading a conversation is confidence and how psychological comfort is provided to people when confidence is displayed. Get all the resources for this episode and listen to more at http://www.drdonmacdonald.com/
Technology isn't all bad but if that’s all we do, we're going to have troubles.
Forward head posture is one of the most common musculoskeletal disorders associated with the use of imaging devices and when the head goes forward, chest expansion diminishes, which puts you at risk of a number of diseases.
On this episode, we are here with one of my mentors, Dr. Michael Hall.
Dr. Michael talks about how correlated our cervical spine health is to our physiology and mental health, and that when we can restore the curve, we can also restore lives. Get all the resources for this episode and listen to more at http://www.drdonmacdonald.com/
Having a chiropractic assistant is essential to make sure that the chiropractor can focus on being a chiropractor and on making a difference but being a CA is not easy. There are a lot of things that go on to be a chiropractic assistant.
On this episode, we are here with Cath Foote. Before knowing Dr. Craig Foote, her husband, she didn’t know much about chiropractic at all. Her husband was her introduction to chiropractic and he taught her a lot about the practice.
Cath talks about how her journey as a chiropractic assistant began and how crucial that role is in helping grow and maintain the practice. She also shares about her mindset behind hiring a staff and looking after them, and how you can keep them inspired on a regular basis. Get all the resources for this episode and listen to more at http://www.drdonmacdonald.com/
We all know that the world is changing and we also got to change with it because if we keep on doing what we did yesterday, it’s not going to continue to work. But when we do something that we’ve never tried before, we create all these new ideas about the thing that we’re good at.
On this episode, we are here with Jonah Sachs, who is a returning guest and author of the book Unsafe Thinking.
Jonah explains the difference between “safe thinking” and “unsafe thinking” and how the latter can help us break into our creative minds. Get all the resources for this episode and listen to more at http://www.drdonmacdonald.com/
One of the reasons why people get burned out is they have lost their love of what they do or they have lost being able to see why they do what they do. At those times, connecting with yourself, the practice, and the community are things that are going to bring you back to life.
On this episode, we are here with Dr. Erin Hawken. She graduated from Murdoch University and has been in practice for 13 years. She has worked as an associate in four different practices and now, she has her own practice, LiveLoveLife, which is located in Sydney.
Dr. Erin talks about how crucial it is to bring yourself into practice in a true and authentic way, which is a big part of being successful in growing a practice. Also, she shares her experiences of feeling burned out in her career and how she was able to get back on track again. Get all the resources for this episode and listen to more at http://www.drdonmacdonald.com/
How involved are you outside of your practice?
That is the question Dr. Gilles LaMarche asks every chiropractor he meets. Dr. Gilles encourages chiropractors to get involved in the practice. When we are more involved in the practice, it impacts you, your life, your career, and your community for the rest of your life.
On this episode, we are with Dr. Gilles. He is the Vice President of Professional Relations at Life University. Also, he has been an Ambassador of the Australian Spinal Research Foundation.
Dr. Gilles talks about various ways that chiropractors can become more involved in the practice. He also emphasizes how crucial it is for chiropractors to not only become an exceptional chiropractor but also be the best practice member in their practice. Get all the resources for this episode and listen to more at http://www.drdonmacdonald.com/
Before you can be connected with your practice members, your team, your family, and everything else, you have to be first connected with yourself and grounded.
On this episode, we are here with Dr. Tiffany Johnson. She graduated from Northwestern Chiropractic and has been in practice for 12 years. Also, she is a mom of two adorable kids.
Dr. Tiffany shares her experience of how she ran into a Board issue and how she accepted the full suspension, probation, and monitoring so she can start to heal and move past it. Get all the resources for this episode and listen to more at http://www.drdonmacdonald.com/
Dr. Demartini who is one of my mentors said that one of the best things chiropractors could do to be better chiropractors and to help chiropractic, in general, is to become more financially stable. If we’re more financially stable, everything we do is from a state of purpose.
On this episode, we are here with Jonathon Gold. He completed a Bachelor of Commerce with a Major in Finance in Concordia University in Montreal. He is the founder of Gold Investment Management, a company that is focused on one thing and that is investment counsel.
Jonathon talks about investment and the fallacies associated with it. He also emphasizes the importance of not only paying your debt off but also saving early and investing. Get all the resources for this episode and listen to more at http://www.drdonmacdonald.com/
Shedding the husk that's on us and taking from above down inside out that you're going to create a big impact is a big part to being able to make a difference and give, do, love, and serve better.
On this episode, we are here with Dr. Ron Oberstein. He graduated from Life Chiropractic College, which is now Life University, in 1981 and is the current President of Life West. Dr. Ron has been in practice for 37 years and his goal is to spread the chiropractic message and get the world under chiropractic care.
Dr. Ron shares how chiropractors can enrich themselves so they can fulfill their mission, which is changing the world through chiropractic. Get all the resources for this episode and listen to more at http://www.drdonmacdonald.com/
Everything you talk about in your practice is directly related to what you believe in chiropractic and if you’re not aligned with your concepts, it’s hard to ask the right questions and to understand what’s really going on with the person who comes into your office.
On this episode, we are here with Brandi MacDonald. She talks about what the most important concepts are and shares different scenarios to help us understand those so we can help people achieve their true potential.
Aside from learning those concepts, it is also crucial to learn how to communicate those concepts to your practice members, and to connect to who they are and what their potential is. Get all the resources for this episode and listen to more at http://www.drdonmacdonald.com/
Chiropractic is not a numbers game. The number of patients you see and the amount of money you earn don’t matter. Chiropractic is about helping people reach their full potential.
On this episode, we are with Dr. Danny Constable. He graduated from Palmer University in 2000 and now runs a successful practice in Germany.
Dr. Danny talks about the difference between the mechanistic practice and vitalistic practice and the reason why he converted his practice into the latter. Get all the resources for this episode and listen to more at http://www.drdonmacdonald.com/
Our ability to pay attention has atrophied because of the way that we live our lives and thus learning how to be present and mindful is crucial so we can make better decisions and be in a state of homeostasis.
On this episode, we are with Vikki Kelly. She’s a mother of three kids, a business owner, a director, a speaker, and is passionate about helping people understand the importance of mindfulness and meditation.
Vikki shares tips on how we can start being more present and how it can change your life and your practice. Get all the resources for this episode and listen to more at http://www.drdonmacdonald.com/
Any time Dr. Otto Janke has been burned out is because he lost his way and took his eye off his real target in practice. He pissed away a fortune on things that started taking him away from his gifts but soon, he realized that mistake and learned from it.
On this episode, we are here with Dr. Otto. He graduated from Palmer College of Chiropractic in 1992 and has been in practice for more than 26 years. He shares the importance of focusing on your goal and your gifts and how it can help you stay on track. Get all the resources for this episode and listen to more at http://www.drdonmacdonald.com/
Selling yourself as the chiropractor, building a practice which is all about you, and hiring an associate into that practice is a good recipe for trouble.
On this episode, we’re here with Dr. Donald Francis who has been in practice for nine years. He’s a former soldier and was an officer in the Royal Regiment Artillery for almost 12 years. He went to Palmer University when he was 32 years old and graduated in 2009. Now, he runs the fastest growing Chiropractic Clinic in the Scottish Borders that utilizes the Sacro Occipital Technique.
Dr. Donald talks about the one thing he would change on day one of his practice if he could go back in time now. It is that he would start selling chiropractic. He also shares how chiropractors can create a great environment for their associate colleagues and the importance of being able to communicate to your practice members what you are trying to do. Get all the resources for this episode and listen to more at http://www.drdonmacdonald.com/