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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 May 16, 2024
Thursday May 16, 2024
In today's episode, we sit down with the esteemed Dr. Peter Kevorkian, a renowned figure in chiropractic care and education.
Dr. Peter shares insights into his recent life changes, including his transition from full-time practice to a leadership role in chiropractic education.
Throughout the discussion, Dr. Peter delves into the core values of chiropractic care, emphasizing the importance of serving patients and nurturing future chiropractors.
He reflects on the impact of his interactions in practice and highlights the joy he finds in serving others.
Dr. Peter shares valuable perspectives on navigating practice transitions, the integration of chiropractic philosophy and application, and the differences between virtual and in-person training.
Dr. Peter's passion for supporting individuals and families to achieve their personal potential shines through as he leaves us with inspiring tips for both practitioners and chiropractic enthusiasts alike.
Join us as we uncover Dr. Peter's journey and the valuable lessons he's
learned along the way.
Show Notes:
- (00:00): Introduction
- (01:29): Dr. Peter's recent life changes
- (03:34): Navigating practice transitions
- (08:53): From practice to educational leadership
- (10:23): Impactful interactions in chiropractic practice
- (12:05): Chiropractic core values: Serving patients and nurturing students
- (13:56): Chiropractic learning: Virtual training vs. in-person training
- (17:33): Integrating chiropractic philosophy and application
- (24:24): Chiropractic perspectives from around the world
- (27:21): Embracing chiropractic's different approach
- (29:41): Finding joy in serving others
- (36:39): Tips 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
Thursday May 02, 2024
Thursday May 02, 2024
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.
Show Notes:
- (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
Thursday Apr 18, 2024
Thursday Apr 18, 2024
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
Thursday Apr 04, 2024
Thursday Apr 04, 2024
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
Thursday Mar 21, 2024
Thursday Mar 21, 2024
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
Thursday Mar 07, 2024
Thursday Mar 07, 2024
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
Thursday Feb 22, 2024
Thursday Feb 22, 2024
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
Thursday Feb 08, 2024
Thursday Feb 08, 2024
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/
Monday Jul 31, 2023
Monday Jul 31, 2023
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]
Thursday Apr 27, 2023
Thursday Apr 27, 2023
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/