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.

• (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

📲 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:

• 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