The Informed Chiropractor Podcast

Dr. Don MacDonald
  • 5.0 (49)
  • ALTERNATIVE HEALTH
  • UPDATED SEMIWEEKLY

Welcome to The Informed Chiropractor, the go-to podcast for neurologically based chiropractors who are ready to make chiropractic relevant again. Hosted by Dr. Don MacDonald, a 26+ year chiropractor, speaker, and creator of the MacDonald Safety Corridor Protocol, this show blends vitalistic chiropractic principles with modern neuroscience through the lens of the Polyvagal Theory. Every week, we explore how to shift from a mechanistic model to a salutogenic, nervous system-forward approach that fosters true regulation, coregulation, and healing. Whether you’re navigating burnout, refining your adjusting, or searching for a clearer way to communicate the value of chiropractic, this podcast is your home. You’ll hear interviews with global experts, real talk from Dr. Don and Brandi MacDonald, and actionable tools to build a practice rooted in safety, interoception, and chiropractic certainty. 👉 If you’re a purpose-driven chiropractor who wants to lead with connection, adjust with clarity, and reclaim the art of healing, you’re in the right place. Key themes covered: Neurologically based chiropractic care Chiropractic and the Polyvagal Theory Creating safety and co-regulation in practice Coregulation and the social engagement system The salutogenic model of health Interoception and the nervous system Practice growth without burnout Subscribe now and join thousands of chiropractors worldwide reimagining what’s possible through a nervous system forward practice.

  1. The Shoulder–Pelvic Floor Connection: A New Protocol for Neurologically Focused Chiropractic with Dr. Don MacDonald

    2025-12-18

    The Shoulder–Pelvic Floor Connection: A New Protocol for Neurologically Focused Chiropractic with Dr. Don MacDonald

    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

    18 min
  2. Inside Life University: Dr. Brian McAulay on Innovation, Leadership, and What’s Next for Chiropractors

    2025-12-04

    Inside Life University: Dr. Brian McAulay on Innovation, Leadership, and What’s Next for Chiropractors

    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

    36 min
  3. The Vagus Nerve & Nervous System Regulation: Why Everyone Is Talking About It

    2025-11-20

    The Vagus Nerve & Nervous System Regulation: Why Everyone Is Talking About It

    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

    25 min
  4. From Pregnancy to Pediatric Care: Dr. Kelly-Jane McLaughlin on the Next Evolution of Chiropractic

    2025-10-30

    From Pregnancy to Pediatric Care: Dr. Kelly-Jane McLaughlin on the Next Evolution of Chiropractic

    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

    34 min
  5. From Inflammation to Regulation: How Chiropractic Engages the Vagus Nerve

    2025-10-09

    From Inflammation to Regulation: How Chiropractic Engages the Vagus Nerve

    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/

    25 min
  6. Chiropractic Communication & Adaptability with Dr. Peter Amlinger | From Pain Relief to Human Potential

    2025-09-18

    Chiropractic Communication & Adaptability with Dr. Peter Amlinger | From Pain Relief to Human Potential

    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

    35 min
  7. The Next Wave of Chiropractic Evidence: Dr. Kelly Holt on AI-Driven Insights

    2025-09-04

    The Next Wave of Chiropractic Evidence: Dr. Kelly Holt on AI-Driven Insights

    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

    26 min

  8. 2025-08-21

    Prune. Focus. Regulate: A Polyvagal Fall Reset for Your Chiropractic Practice

    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.

    12 min
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5
out of 5
49 Ratings

About

Welcome to The Informed Chiropractor, the go-to podcast for neurologically based chiropractors who are ready to make chiropractic relevant again. Hosted by Dr. Don MacDonald, a 26+ year chiropractor, speaker, and creator of the MacDonald Safety Corridor Protocol, this show blends vitalistic chiropractic principles with modern neuroscience through the lens of the Polyvagal Theory. Every week, we explore how to shift from a mechanistic model to a salutogenic, nervous system-forward approach that fosters true regulation, coregulation, and healing. Whether you’re navigating burnout, refining your adjusting, or searching for a clearer way to communicate the value of chiropractic, this podcast is your home. You’ll hear interviews with global experts, real talk from Dr. Don and Brandi MacDonald, and actionable tools to build a practice rooted in safety, interoception, and chiropractic certainty. 👉 If you’re a purpose-driven chiropractor who wants to lead with connection, adjust with clarity, and reclaim the art of healing, you’re in the right place. Key themes covered: Neurologically based chiropractic care Chiropractic and the Polyvagal Theory Creating safety and co-regulation in practice Coregulation and the social engagement system The salutogenic model of health Interoception and the nervous system Practice growth without burnout Subscribe now and join thousands of chiropractors worldwide reimagining what’s possible through a nervous system forward practice.

Information

  • Creator
    Dr. Don MacDonald
  • Years Active
    2017 - 2025
  • Episodes
    100
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2025 Don MacDonald. All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    The Informed Chiropractor Podcast

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