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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
Wednesday May 29, 2019
Wednesday May 29, 2019
Summary
The people you surround yourself with can have a major impact on your life, work, and attitude. Finding your tribe might just be the most important thing you can do to help yourself see the world, and your practice in a new, inspirational light. Working with others who have tried and tested office processes, patient services, and community involvement can lessen the time it takes to achieve your goals and build a thriving practice.
Today we travel to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to speak with Emily Miller an integral part of the team who provides high-level care and psychological comfort to children at Life Potential Chiropractic. Emily and her husband, Dr. Tony Miller attended our Vitality Shift seminar and the Transformers Mastermind.
During this podcast episode, Emily shares how she overcame Crohn's disease, her journey to chiropractic, how she and Tony built their practice by partnering with teachers and schools, and how she overcame her challenges to find her personal truth.
Join our next Transformers Mastermind in Toronto, September 6th & 7th.
Key Takeaways:
- Emily explains her first and second introduction to chiropractic care, [2:19]
- After working with children in a local hospital, Emily left her job to open a practice with her husband. [8:56]
- Building a patient roster was Emily’s primary goal when first opening the practice. [12:02]
- Emily’s thirst for additional knowledge about chiropractic led her to attend a Vitality Shift Seminar. [16:48]
- Emily has the opportunity to provide psychological comfort when speaking with parents about a child’s diagnosis. [20:40]
- Emily shares the ups and downs of being a married couple in the same office. [27:30]
- Emily describes the board breaking and goal writing exercises from the Transformers Mastermind. [31:00]
- Parting words of wisdom from Emily about finding herself while obtaining her goals. [48:50]
Learn More:
The Underdog Curse: The Cause, The Cure and The Road to Success
Wednesday May 22, 2019
Wednesday May 22, 2019
Meeting face-to-face with other chiropractors in the community can build beneficial bonds and lead to exciting new ventures. Working together strengthens our local practices as well as the international chiropractic community as a whole. Graduating students of chiropractic can gain knowledge from the lessons and research of veteran practitioners. Connecting with each other on a human level is how we will move forward.
Today we drop into New Zealand, to speak with a man who has been instrumental in building the chiropractic community there, Dr. Phil McMaster. He is the President and one of the original Founders of the New Zealand College of Chiropractic. He also served as the Chairman of the New Zealand Chiropractic Education Trust Board.
During this podcast episode, we discuss the early days of attending a chiropractic college and how it’s changed, the importance of useful research to the chiropractic community, leadership, tolerance, and how when we work together we all win.
The next Vitality Shift Immersion Day is in Montreal, Canada on November 2, 2019. Register to attend here.
Key Takeaways:
- Dr. McMaster attended a chiropractic career seminar and made the decision to become a chiropractor but had never had an adjustment before. [2:00]
- To build his new practice, Dr. McMaster moved to a place he loved and made connections through his love of rugby, his kids, and by sponsoring local events. [8:18]
- Chiropractic is a lifestyle so even when taking breaks, Dr. McMaster was hanging out with other chiropractors. [12:59]
- The Chiropractic First New Zealand Limited group was formed by friends who then created the New Zealand College of Chiropractic. [14:37]
- Dr. McMaster describes the closely linked network of chiropractors in New Zealand and how they work together to resolve issues. [22:02]
- The research agenda at the college is nurtured by collaborating with outside organizations and led by the college’s pioneer students. [33:56]
- Dr. McMaster’s advice for new or chiropractors who want to connect with others. [43:43]
Learn More:
New Zealand College of Chiropractic
The Underdog Curse: The Cause, The Cure and The Road to Success
Wednesday May 15, 2019
Wednesday May 15, 2019
Our individual communication style is an accumulation of a lifetime of personal experiences. But the language we use at home or with friends may not seamlessly integrate into our practices. The people we depend on to keep our offices running smoothly and efficiently need to feel valued for their contributions, They also need to be empowered to perform their duties with minimal direction.
Today, Brandi MacDonald joins me to discuss tips on how chiropractors can successfully integrate the salutogenesis framework of care in a pathogenetically regulated environment. She also does a deep dive into interoffice communications based on her previous Chiropractic Assistant classes, and what attendees can expect from the Shift Immersion Program, the Shift Unplugged Seminar, and the Transformers Mastermind.
Key Takeaways:
- ● For chiropractors, practicing the salutogenesis framework of care can be difficult in a pathogenetically regulated environment. [1:08]
- ● Could you be devaluing your Chiropractic Assistant (CA) without recognizing it? [14:06]
- ● Why a simple question is the best way to improve office communications. [23:26]
- ● What NOT to take away from this podcast and the importance of debriefing. [29:43]
- ● What can Chiropractors and CA’s expect from the Shift Immersion Program and Shift Unplugged? [32:36]
- ● The Transformers Mastermind is an intimate gathering for in-depth communications training. [37:28]
- Learn More:
- Brandi MacDonald Website
- Brandi MacDonald on Facebook
- True Concept Seminars
- Dr. Don MacDonald
- The Underdog Curse: The Cause, The Cure and The Road to Success
- @DrDonMacDonald on Twitter
- Dr. Don MacDonald on Facebook
Wednesday May 08, 2019
Wednesday May 08, 2019
How many of us stick with a plan even if it doesn’t seem to be working? How many of us are feeling run down and burnout but keep pushing ourselves to the limit beyond what is healthy? If you are doing either of these things, know that it is okay to re-work your plan, course correct, and be realistic with your expectations.
Today, Amy Robinson joins Doctor Don to share how she continuously course corrects. She also discusses her journey into the field of chiropractic. Like many guests, Amy suffered a sports injury that other types of medical treatments couldn’t help her to heal. She was told she would have to stop running but it was an option she wouldn’t accept. After visiting a chiropractor who relieved her symptoms in just 6-months, Amy knew she would study and then practice chiropractic as her life’s passion.
During this episode, Amy discusses starting a new practice after selling her previous one, the mental fatigue that can accompany running a successful business, being a parent while running a practice, what she does to build her referral network, and how structure has given her freedom.
Key Takeaways:
- A sports injury left Amy searching for a model of healing that worked with the body’s natural healing abilities. [2:27]
- Amy shares her chiropractic school experience and offers some advice to current chiropractic students. [7:24]
- Amy discusses the experience of opening her own practice, gaining confidence, selling a practice, and the importance of building relationships and community. [11:23]
- Amy created the ‘Dinner with the Doc’ event to help grow her new practice and build her referral network. [20:59]
- Dealing with mental fatigue and burnout as a chiropractor and parent. [28:47]
- The importance of structure in order to attain freedom. [36:24]
- Amy’s parting advice — Give yourself time to course correct and you are enough. [42:31]
Learn More:
Dinner with the Doc on Facebook
The Shift Unplugged Seminar — Gold Coast May 31 - June 1
The Underdog Curse: The Cause, The Cure and The Road to Success
Wednesday May 01, 2019
Wednesday May 01, 2019
Believe it or not, the entire country of Ireland only has approximately 100 Chiropractors. The professionals and the services they provide are unregulated and they just recently lost their ability to x-ray patients. In an atmosphere such as this, raising public awareness is key to helping chiropractic offices thrive.
Today, Dr. Stuart Kelly joins the podcast to discuss the steps he is taking to bring international speakers to Ireland’s chiropractic stage and the early influences that led him to become a Chiropractor and a Life Coach. He shares the mindful practices that allow him to balance his life and practice, and help him avoid the dreaded burnout period.
During this episode, we discuss the importance of partnering with other countries to bring about regulation and growth, how seminars and other events can raise awareness of your purpose, and the benefits of finding the right mentor early in your career.
Key Takeaways:
- After having a back injury healed by a chiropractor, a 17-year-old Stuart decided to attend a program at ACC. [2:19]
- Stuart explains the limited chiropractic influences available to him during his studies. [8:07]
- After some soul searching and a few Demartini moments, Stuart was determined to build his practice based on his values. [14:17]
- Becoming certified as a Life Coach brought balance to Stuart’s life and practice. [23:03]
- Tips to reduce burnout and increase life satisfaction. [27:36]
- Stuart hopes this years ‘I Chiro’ event will raise chiropractic awareness in Ireland. [31:31]
Learn More:
I Chiro Event — For information and to register
The Shift Unplugged Seminar — Gold Coast May 31 - June 1
The Underdog Curse: The Cause, The Cure and The Road to Success
Wednesday Apr 24, 2019
Wednesday Apr 24, 2019
Understanding why you are doing something can be just as important as taking on the task itself, especially when running your own practice. As we become more seasoned in our profession we all evolve our techniques and strategies to better serve our clients. One area of a practice where early adoption can be essential for growing your practice is business management.
Today, Dr. Paul Needham joins us from New Zealand to share his personal chiropractic late bloomer story and the knowledge he has gained along his journey. Paul bought an existing practice just four months after graduating from chiropractic college. All the facilities were in place but some essentials were missing. Mainly, a quality front office team and basic business management skills.
During this episode, we discuss the skills necessary for new chiropractic graduates, the importance of focusing on your core function in your practice, and the benefits of coaching, seminars, and knowing your purpose.
Key Takeaways:
- Paul shares his origin story. [1:01]
- How Paul’s chiropractic technique has changed over the years. [10:13]
- After buying his practice just 4 months out of school, Paul knew the value of a chiropractic adjustment but needed to tweak other aspects of the business. [17:10]
- The importance of front office staff and creating a statement of purpose for the practice. [22:13]
- The biggest shift in Paul’s business was a procedural manual, figuring out the why, and coaching. [32:34]
- If Paul could go back and speak with his younger self he would recommend getting some coaching about running a business. [36:15]
- Solid advice for knowing who you are and what you stand for to help grow your practice. [50:54]
Learn More:
The Shift Unplugged Seminar — Gold Coast May 31 - June 1
The Underdog Curse: The Cause, The Cure and The Road to Success
Wednesday Apr 17, 2019
Wednesday Apr 17, 2019
Summary
The chiropractic profession seems to be under fire lately, all around the globe. Bad press, passionate politicians, and other medical practitioners have their own reasons for criticism. So, how we respond to the adversity will be what defines us. There are effective strategies for handling difficult conversations especially when they are emotionally charged. Let’s use these encounters as an opportunity for growth and connection with the people we serve.
Today, Martin Harvey supplies us with communication strategies to change adverse, even unfavorable perceptions within moments. These tried and true, affirming practices go beyond logic and leave an emotional impression of understanding and trust. Both amiable and drivers will find benefit in these strategies.
During this episode, Martin discusses examples of how to manage your emotions and react when approached with a difficult topic, how to create connection by asking permission before you share your beliefs, and a technique that can change people’s perceptions.
Key Takeaways:
- ● How to create opportunities when bad press brings you challenges. [1:50]
- ● Don’t go unhinged: Strategies for managing your emotions. [5:58]
- ● Establish credibility and connection before stating your case. [14:44]
- ● How to ask permission before offering your perspective. [23:10]
- ● Yes, and — Using your power to move a person toward a different perception. [31:23]
- ● Chiropractic has the potential to change the health of the world. [40:26]
- Learn More:
- Inside Out Practices
- The Shift Unplugged Seminar — Gold Coast May 31 - June 1
- Dr. Don McDonald
- The Underdog Curse: The Cause, The Cure and The Road to Success
- @DrDonMacDonald on Twitter
- Dr. Don MacDonald on Facebook
Wednesday Apr 10, 2019
Wednesday Apr 10, 2019
Summary
How important are referrals in growing your practice? For most of us, the answer is: very important. If you live in Australia where chiropractors face restrictions such as the inability to advertise, no use of testimonials or case studies, qualified referrals can be the lifeblood of your practice. So, what are the best practices to gain the right kind of referrals without taking time away from your patient care?
Today, Craig Foote share tips from The Art of Inspiring Referrals program he designed as part of his Chiropractic Flight School resource. The resource includes videos, an online library, and in-person workshops loaded with information to assist chiropractors and their staff to further their skills and grow their practices.
During this episode, Craig discusses the current political environment for chiropractic in Australia, tips for inspiring current clients to become qualified referrers, and the framework for research funding and the current activities of The Spinal Research Foundation of Australia
Key Takeaways:
- Craig describes the current restrictive state of chiropractic in Australia. [2:16]
- The current guidelines for chiropractors in Australia vary state by state. [12:44]
- Even when things are difficult, it is change that brings about growth. [16:17]
- Craig shares tips from his The Art of Inspiring Referrals program. [17:55]
- The vision and structure of Australia’s Spinal Research Foundation. [38:36]
Learn More:
Australia's Spinal Research Foundation
The Shift Unplugged Seminar — Gold Coast May 31 - June 1
The Underdog Curse: The Cause, The Cure and The Road to Success
Wednesday Apr 03, 2019
Wednesday Apr 03, 2019
Summary
When your profession chooses you it is imperative you stay on course no matter what tries to slow you down. Whether it be a life-changing illness or a major setback, the will to continue on your quest will determine how clients perceive you and your ability to alter their health for the better.
Today, Sabrina shares her journey of becoming a chiropractor. Her teenage years were strife with debilitating headaches until a family friend recommended a chiropractor. Within months of treatments, her pain was relieved and her new life path became clear. She would study chiropractic and serve people the way she had been served. And, later when Lyme disease threatened her vitality, how she holistically got rid of it.
During this episode, Sabrina discusses her less than optimum chiropractic college experience, the speakers and students who made a lasting impact on her, the disease no one thought she would overcome, how her love of public speaking helped grow her business, and what inspired her to promote her favorite Brandi bombs.
Get your free ‘6-Steps for Increasing Your Retention in a Vitalistic Model’ download from TheVitalityShift.com!
Key Takeaways:
- Sabrina suffered for years with chronic headaches until a chiropractic experience changed her life. [1:29]
- Even though the subject matter was lacking, Sabrina found inspiration in guest speakers and in other students during her years in chiropractic college. [7:07]
- After two associate positions, Sabrina opened her current practice and beat the pavement by public speaking and offering free health classes to get clients. [17:28]
- How to tap into your client’s network to gain new clients. [22:16]
- How Sabrina rid herself of Lyme disease through natural healthcare practices. [27:21]
- What motivated Sabrina to help compile Brandi’s Facebook posts into the book, Sipping Brandi. [45:09]
Learn More:
The Shift Unplugged Seminar — Gold Coast May 31 - June 1
The Underdog Curse: The Cause, The Cure and The Road to Success
Wednesday Mar 27, 2019
Wednesday Mar 27, 2019
Are you making an impact in other people’s lives? The impact you make is your value. And, promoting your value should be an integral part of marketing and branding strategy. When you promote your value clients don’t feel as if you are selling to them, they see you as solving their problems. Isn’t it nice to feel valued by clients for the work you do?
Today, I have an amazing underdog story to share with you. Steve Sims joins me on the podcast to discuss his journey from an unsatisfied bricklayer to completely content world-class concierge. He is the Founder of Bluefish, a company that is known for getting the affluent whatever they want whenever they want it.
During this episode, Steve shares how he helps people do the impossible, how he created his own business without realizing it, and his advice for growing a business.
Get your free ‘6-Steps for Increasing Your Retention in a Vitalistic Model’ download from TheVitalityShift.com!
Key Takeaways:
- ● Steve describes his journey of never accepting something that brought him discomfort. [1:52]
- ● How Steve became ‘The Man that Can’ with his own concierge company. [9:10]
- ● Steve wrote Bluefishing: The Art of Making Things Happen to help entrepreneurs get out of their own way. [14:31]
- ● The best sales technique is to solve, not sell.[20:31]
- ● How to connect with the clients you want. [30:30]
- Learn More:
- Steve D. Sims Website
- Text ‘SIMS’ to 345345 to connect with Steve
- The Art of Making Things Happen Podcast
- The Shift Unplugged Seminar — Gold Coast May 31 - June 1
- Dr. Don McDonald
- The Underdog Curse: The Cause, The Cure and The Road to Success
- @DrDonMacDonald on Twitter
- Dr. Don MacDonald on Facebook