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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

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.
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