The Informed Chiropractor Podcast

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: 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 📲 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

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:

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: 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: 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: 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: 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:

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 healthily. 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: For more information on "The Informed Chiropractor," click https://www.thevitalityshift.com/the-informed-chiropractor

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: 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: 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: 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: 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: 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: Get Different: https://www.gogetdifferent.com For more information on the Vitality Shift program visit: https://www.thevitalityshift.com