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Dive into the vibrant world of chiropractic care through a Polyvagal Lens with ”The Informed Chiropractor.” Hosted by Dr. Don MacDonald, this illuminating series explores chiropractic’s vitalistic and salutogenic models through the insightful lens of the Polyvagal Theory. Each episode offers a blend of engaging interviews with industry experts and personal reflections on chiropractic’s foundational principles. Here, we unravel the keys to human health, wellness, and innate potential, bridging the time-tested truths of chiropractic practice with cutting-edge neuroscientific understanding of the Polyvagal Theory. Whether you’re a seasoned chiropractor seeking to refine your approach or a student eager to tap into the roots and future of chiropractic care, this podcast promises to enlighten, challenge, and inspire. Join us on a transformative journey as we explore the nuances, challenges, and triumphs of a practice dedicated to unlocking the body’s inherent vitality through the quest for Safety through a Polyvagal Lens.
Episodes
6 hours ago
6 hours ago
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:
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
6 days ago
6 days ago
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
Tuesday Mar 18, 2025
Tuesday Mar 18, 2025
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
Tuesday Mar 04, 2025
Tuesday Mar 04, 2025
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:
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 #Healthpractice
Thursday Feb 13, 2025
Thursday Feb 13, 2025
🎙 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
Wednesday Jan 22, 2025
Wednesday Jan 22, 2025
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:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theinformedchiropractor
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/informed_chiropractor/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theInformedChiropractor
Thursday Nov 28, 2024
Thursday Nov 28, 2024
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
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/informed_chiropractor/
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
Wednesday Nov 13, 2024
Wednesday Nov 13, 2024
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
Wednesday Oct 30, 2024
Wednesday Oct 30, 2024
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
Wednesday Oct 16, 2024