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.

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.

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.

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.

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.
• The NFL’s approach to collective success and how the chiropratic space can take inspiration.
• How Life University's campus features honor chiropractic pioneers and inspire future practitioners.
• Why affordability is 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 

Today I’m talking about the fascinating connection between chiropractic care and the vagus nerve. I share insights from the recent CNAC conference in Toronto, emphasizing chiropractors' role as guides to vagus nerve wellness. We explore how the polyvagal theory can revolutionize nervous system regulation and enhance patient care strategies. You’ll hear about the significance of movement, breath, and connection in maintaining a regulated state, which is crucial for improved social interactions and overall well-being, especially post-COVID.

In this episode:

• How the polyvagal theory can enhance chiropractic care and patient understanding.
• Why chiropractors should integrate nervous system regulation insights into their practice.
• How aligning with public interest in the vagus nerve can improve patient education.
• Why the vagus nerve is crucial in addressing migraines, epilepsy, and depression.
• How achieving a ventral vagal state supports social engagement and well-being.
• Why understanding the vagus nerve's complexity is essential for healthcare professionals.
• How chiropractic care can help individuals better perceive their physiological states.
• Why the vagus nerve is likened to a volume control rather than a simple switch.
• How chiropractic care can harness the public's rising interest in nervous system regulation.
• Why chiropractors should adapt communication strategies to current public interests.
• How the movement of the spine and rib cage contributes to a regulated state.
• Why chiropractors have a responsibility to positively influence community well-being.
• How post-pandemic concerns like anxiety and sleep issues drive interest in vagus nerve topics.

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. Kelly-Jane McLaughlin, a passionate chiropractor practicing in Carlisle, England, joins us for today’s conversation. We get the details on her unique career journey, which did not start with a burning passion to become a chiropractor, and explore her experiences working with a rugby team. She also has a huge passion and dedication to pediatric and pregnancy chiropractic care, which she shares valuable insights on. Dr. McLaughlin also provides tips on simplifying your chiropractic practice, the importance of mentorship, and balancing your professional and personal life.

In this episode:

• How growing up in Germany eventually led Dr. McLaughlin to pursue chiropractic as a career.
• The role of community and collaboration in Dr. McLaughlin's chiropractic journey across countries.
• Why Dr. McLaughlin emphasizes pediatric and pregnancy chiropractic care.
• The challenges and benefits of balancing professional and personal life when working with a spouse.
• Why is clear role delineation and compromise so important in chiropractic practices run by couples?
• Dr. McLaughlin’s opinion on the large number of C-section births that take place.
• How demystifying complex neurology fosters practitioner confidence and enhances patient interactions.
• How passion and ongoing learning are crucial in sustaining long-term enthusiasm in chiropractic.
• Why Dr. McLaughlin's seminars on pregnancy care are essential for expectant mothers' informed decisions.
• How the Revival Retreat, hosted by Dr. McLaughlin and her business partner, fosters connection, bravery, and personal growth among chiropractic participants.

Hayley & Kelly: https://www.hayleyandkelly.co.uk 

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 

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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YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theInformedChiropractor

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