In8 Thots

Dr. Joe Sheppard
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 “Welcome to IN8 THOTS — the chiropractic podcast dedicated to the timeless wisdom of the Palmer Green Books. I’m Dr. Joe Sheppard, and in each episode, I summarize, highlight and read from the original writings of B.J. Palmer and the pioneers of chiropractic philosophy, breaking down the principles, discussing the meaning behind the words, and highlighting the key concepts that shaped our profession. From the subluxation specific to innate intelligence, this podcast is about preserving the philosophy, understanding the science, and applying the art of chiropractic in today’s world. Let’s open the Green Books and think from Above-Down, Inside-Out.” 

Episodes

  1. 1d ago

    IN8 THOTS Green Book Series Section 3 of 8, The Bigness of the Fellow Within

    IN8 THOTS Green Book Series Section 3 of 8, The Bigness of the Fellow Within “What Interferes with the Fellow Within?”In Section 3 of the IN8 THOTS Green Book Series, Dr. Joe Sheppard explores one of the most practical and important questions raised by Dr. B.J. Palmer: If every person possesses an extraordinary intelligence within, what interferes with its full expression? This episode examines Dr. B.J. Palmer’s belief that the body is constantly striving toward adaptation, healing, and survival through Innate Intelligence, yet may face challenges that reduce its ability to function efficiently. Dr. Joe discusses the chiropractic concept of interference, the role of vertebral subluxation, and how physical, chemical, and emotional stress can affect communication within the nervous system. Topics include adaptation, resilience, neurological communication, stress overload, compensation patterns, the body’s remarkable ability to respond to challenges, and why chiropractic focuses on improving function rather than simply chasing symptoms. The episode also explores the importance of personal responsibility in supporting health and removing barriers that may interfere with the body’s natural adaptive processes. Key Topics: What interferes with the expression of Innate IntelligenceVertebral subluxation and neurological communicationPhysical, chemical, and emotional stressAdaptation versus overloadWhy symptoms may appear after dysfunction beginsThe nervous system as the body's communication networkPersonal responsibility and healthSupporting the body's natural healing capacityA thought-provoking episode for chiropractors, students, patients, and anyone interested in chiropractic philosophy, human adaptability, and the remarkable intelligence working within every living person.

    15 min

  2. 1d ago

    IN8 THOTS Green Book Series Section 2 of 8, The Bigness of the Fellow Within

    IN8 THOTS Green Book Series Section 2 of 8, The Bigness of the Fellow Within “Innate Intelligence and Universal Intelligence”In Section 2 of the IN8 THOTS Green Book Series, Dr. Joe Sheppard explores two of the most foundational concepts in chiropractic philosophy: Innate Intelligence and Universal Intelligence. Drawing from the teachings of Dr. B.J. Palmer, this episode examines how these ideas shaped the chiropractic understanding of life, health, healing, and human potential. Dr. Joe discusses Dr. B.J. Palmer’s belief that the universe operates according to principles of order and organization, and that every living being expresses a unique intelligence responsible for growth, adaptation, healing, and survival. Listeners will learn how chiropractic philosophy views the body as an intelligent, self-regulating system constantly striving toward balance and function through the coordination of the nervous system. Topics include the relationship between Universal Intelligence and Innate Intelligence, the body’s natural healing abilities, adaptation, resilience, neurological communication, and the chiropractor’s role in reducing interference rather than creating health. The episode also explores why Dr. B.J. Palmer believed that appreciating the intelligence within the body can change how we think about health, healing, and personal responsibility. Key Topics: Universal Intelligence and natural lawInnate Intelligence and the organization of lifeThe body's ability to heal and adaptThe nervous system and communicationHuman potential and resilienceThe chiropractic view of health and functionThe power that made the body heals the bodyRespecting the intelligence withinA thought-provoking episode for chiropractors, students, patients, and anyone interested in chiropractic philosophy, personal growth, and understanding the extraordinary intelligence that exists within every living person.

    15 min

  3. 1d ago

    IN8 THOTS Green Book Series Section 1 of 8, The Bigness of the Fellow Within

    IN8 THOTS Green Book Series Section 1 of 8, The Bigness of the Fellow Within“The Most Important Person You'll Never Meet”In the opening episode of the IN8 THOTS series on The Bigness of the Fellow Within, Dr. Joe Sheppard introduces one of the most inspiring and philosophical concepts ever presented by Dr. B.J. Palmer: the idea that every human being possesses an extraordinary intelligence within that constantly coordinates, adapts, heals, and sustains life. This episode explores Dr. B.J. Palmer’s concept of “The Fellow Within” and its relationship to Innate Intelligence, health, healing, and human potential. Dr. Joe discusses why Dr. B.J. Palmer believed the body is far more intelligent than most people realize and how chiropractic philosophy encourages us to focus not only on disease and dysfunction, but also on the remarkable organization and adaptability already present within the body. Topics include Innate Intelligence, the body's natural healing abilities, adaptation, nervous system coordination, personal responsibility for health, and the famous chiropractic principle: “The power that made the body heals the body.” This episode serves as the foundation for the entire Bigness of the Fellow Within series and invites listeners to think more deeply about the intelligence, potential, and resilience that exist within every human being. Key Topics: The meaning of “The Fellow Within”Innate Intelligence and human potentialThe body's remarkable ability to heal and adaptWhy Dr. B.J. Palmer focused on what is right with the bodyThe relationship between chiropractic and human functionPersonal responsibility and healthThe power that made the body heals the bodyThe philosophical foundation of The Bigness of the Fellow WithinA thought-provoking introduction for chiropractors, students, patients, and anyone interested in chiropractic philosophy, personal growth, and the extraordinary intelligence that exists within every living person.

    12 min

  4. May 29

    IN8 THOTS Green Book Series Section 8 of 8 The Subluxation Specific — the Adjustment Specific

    IN8 THOTS Green Book Series Section 8 of 8The Subluxation Specific — the Adjustment Specific : an exposition of the cause of all dis-ease“The Legacy of Specific Chiropractic”In the final episode of the IN8 THOTS Green Book Series, Dr. Joe Sheppard reflects on the lasting legacy of Dr. B.J. Palmer and how The Subluxation Specific — The Adjustment Specific helped shape the philosophy, analysis, and evolution of modern chiropractic. This concluding episode explores Dr. B.J. Palmer’s relentless pursuit of specificity, his belief in the body's innate ability to heal and adapt, and his commitment to improving chiropractic through observation, analysis, and precise correction. Dr. Joe discusses how the principles introduced in this Green Book influenced generations of chiropractors and ultimately led to the development of modern upper cervical techniques, including the Hole-In-One (HIO) approach and other specific chiropractic methods. Topics include the legacy of vertebral subluxation, Innate Intelligence, neurological communication, holding adjustments, upper cervical philosophy, objective analysis, and the ongoing pursuit of precision in chiropractic care. The episode also examines how Dr. B.J. Palmer’s ideas continue to influence chiropractors today through advanced analysis, imaging, and neurologically focused approaches to patient care. Most importantly, this episode highlights that specificity is more than a technique—it is a mindset. A commitment to observation, precision, continual learning, and respect for the body's remarkable ability to adapt and heal. Key Topics: The lasting influence of Dr. B.J. Palmer on chiropracticThe legacy of The Subluxation Specific — The Adjustment SpecificHow B.J. Palmer shaped modern upper cervical techniquesThe development of the Hole-In-One (HIO) conceptSpecificity as a philosophy and clinical objectiveThe role of analysis in chiropractic careHolding adjustments and neurological adaptationThe future of specific chiropracticThis episode concludes the eight-part exploration of one of the most influential books in chiropractic history and challenges listeners to continue studying, questioning, and pursuing greater specificity in both practice and life.

    21 min

  5. May 29

    IN8 THOTS Green Book Series Section 7 of 8, The Subluxation Specific — the Adjustment Specific

    IN8 THOTSGreen Book Series Section 7 of 8The Subluxation Specific — the Adjustment Specific : an exposition of the cause of all dis-ease“The Science and Art of Finding the Subluxation Specific”In Section 7 of the IN8 THOTS Green Book Series, Dr. Joe Sheppard explores Dr. B.J. Palmer’s relentless pursuit of one of chiropractic’s most important objectives: finding the subluxation specific. This episode examines how Dr. B.J. Palmer moved chiropractic away from guesswork and symptom chasing and toward a system of analysis designed to identify the primary source of neurological interference. Dr. Joe discusses the evolution of chiropractic analysis, the importance of objective findings, and why Dr. B.J. Palmer believed that accurate analysis must always precede a specific adjustment. Topics include spinal analysis, posture, balance, leg checks, spinography, neurological indicators, upper cervical assessment, holding adjustments, and the chiropractor’s role as an observer and analyst rather than simply a technician. The episode also explores how specificity requires precision, patience, and humility, and why Dr. B.J. Palmer viewed chiropractic as both a science of analysis and an art of correction. Listeners will gain insight into how the search for the subluxation specific shaped the future of chiropractic and why the pursuit of greater precision continues to influence chiropractors today. Key Topics: Finding the subluxation specificWhy symptoms alone can be misleadingThe evolution of chiropractic analysisObjective findings versus assumptionsSpinography and upper cervical assessmentHolding adjustments and ongoing evaluationNeurological communication and adaptationThe science and art of specificityA thought-provoking episode for chiropractors, students, patients, and anyone interested in the philosophy, analysis, and precision behind specific chiropractic care.

    14 min

  6. May 29

    IN8 THOTS Green Book Series, Section 6 of 8 The Subluxation Specific — the Adjustment Specific

    IN8 THOTSGreen Book Series, Section 6 of 8The Subluxation Specific — the Adjustment Specific : an exposition of the cause of all dis-ease“Why the Upper Cervical Spine Became the Focus”In Section 6 of the IN8 THOTS Green Book Series, Dr. Joe Sheppard explores why Dr. B.J. Palmer gradually shifted his focus toward the upper cervical spine and how that pursuit ultimately led to the development of the Hole-In-One (HIO) concept. This episode examines Dr. B.J. Palmer's search for greater specificity and his belief that the chiropractor's objective was not simply to adjust the spine, but to locate the primary area of neurological interference and deliver one precise correction. Dr. Joe discusses the unique anatomy and neurological significance of the atlas and axis, the relationship between the upper cervical spine and the nervous system, and why Dr. B.J. Palmer believed specific upper cervical corrections often produced profound and lasting changes. Topics include the evolution of upper cervical chiropractic, the development of the Hole-In-One concept, the philosophy of “less is more,” the importance of holding adjustments, spinal analysis, neurological adaptability, and the ongoing pursuit of specificity within chiropractic care. This episode also explores how Dr. B.J. Palmer's emphasis on precision, timing, and objective analysis helped shape modern upper cervical chiropractic and continues to influence chiropractors seeking to improve function through specific neurological correction. A thought-provoking discussion for chiropractors, students, patients, and anyone interested in the history, philosophy, and evolution of specific chiropractic care. Key Topics: Why B.J. Palmer focused on the upper cervical spineAtlas and axis anatomy and neurological significanceThe development of the Hole-In-One (HIO) conceptFinding the primary subluxationSpecificity versus forceHolding adjustments and neurological adaptationThe evolution of upper cervical analysisThe future of specific chiropractic

    18 min

  7. May 24

    IN8 THOTS Green Book Series, Section 5 of 8 The Subluxation Specific — the Adjustment Specific

    IN8 THOTS Green Book Series Section 5 of 8The Subluxation Specific — the Adjustment Specific : an exposition of the cause of all dis-ease“Holding the Adjustment: Why Dr. B.J. Palmer Changed Chiropractic”In Section 5 of the IN8 THOTS Green Book Series, Dr. Joe Sheppard explores one of the most transformative concepts introduced by Dr. B.J. Palmer: holding the adjustment. This episode examines how Dr. B.J. Palmer shifted chiropractic philosophy away from repeated adjusting and toward the idea that the true objective of chiropractic is not simply delivering an adjustment, but helping the body stabilize and maintain the correction over time. Dr. Joe discusses the neurological significance of “holding,” the relationship between adaptation and stress, and why Dr. B.J. Palmer became increasingly focused on specificity, timing, restraint, and upper cervical chiropractic. The episode also explores how the nervous system adapts following a specific adjustment and why chiropractic philosophy emphasizes function and adaptability rather than symptom chasing alone. Topics include neurological stabilization, Innate Intelligence, stress adaptation, upper cervical philosophy, the body’s healing capacity, specificity versus force, and the evolving role of the chiropractor as a facilitator of improved neurological function. A foundational episode for chiropractors, students, patients, and anyone interested in the deeper philosophy behind specific chiropractic care and the body’s remarkable ability to adapt and heal.

    18 min

  8. May 24

    IN8 THOTS Green Book Series Section 4 of 8, The Subluxation Specific — the Adjustment Specific

    IN8 THOTS Green Book Series Section 4 of 8The Subluxation Specific — the Adjustment Specific : an exposition of the cause of all dis-ease“Vertebral Subluxation: More Than a Bone Out of Place”In Section 4 of the IN8 THOTS Green Book Series, Dr. Joe Sheppard explores one of the most foundational and controversial concepts in chiropractic philosophy: vertebral subluxation. This episode examines how Dr. B.J. Palmer viewed vertebral subluxation not simply as a bone “out of place,” but as altered neurological communication affecting the body’s ability to adapt and function properly. Dr. Joe discusses the relationship between the spine, nervous system, posture, movement, and adaptability, while explaining why Dr. B.J. Palmer believed specificity and precise correction were central to chiropractic care. Topics include neurological interference, stress adaptation, mechanoreceptor input, posture and brain-body communication, upper cervical philosophy, and why chiropractic focuses on function rather than symptom chasing alone. This episode also explores how vertebral subluxation shaped the identity of chiropractic and why the concept continues to influence modern discussions surrounding nervous system function, spinal mechanics, and specific chiropractic care. A foundational discussion for chiropractors, students, patients, and anyone interested in the deeper philosophical principles behind chiropractic and neurological adaptability.

    16 min

  9. May 23

    IN8 THOTS Green Book Series Section 3 of 8, The Subluxation Specific — the Adjustment Specific

    IN8 THOTSGreen Book Series Section 3 of 8 The Subluxation Specific — the Adjustment Specific : an exposition of the cause of all dis-ease “Innate Intelligence and the Power Within”In Section 3 of the IN8 THOTS Green Book Series, Dr. Joe Sheppard explores one of the most foundational and debated concepts in chiropractic philosophy: Innate Intelligence. This episode examines how Dr. B.J. Palmer viewed the body as an organized, self-regulating system constantly adapting, healing, and coordinating through the nervous system. Dr. Joe discusses the meaning behind the famous chiropractic principle, “The power that made the body heals the body,” and explains how chiropractic philosophy emphasizes reducing interference rather than simply chasing symptoms. Topics include neurological communication, adaptation, stress, healing capacity, vertebral subluxation, the body’s organizational intelligence, and why specificity and nervous system function became central to chiropractic philosophy. This episode also explores the relationship between Innate Intelligence, modern neurophysiology, and the chiropractor’s role in facilitating better function through specific adjustments. A thought-provoking discussion for chiropractors, students, patients, and anyone interested in the philosophical foundations of chiropractic and the body’s remarkable ability to adapt and heal. Stay specific. Stay connected. And think from above-down, inside-out.

    14 min

  10. May 23

    IN8 THOTS Green Book Series Section 2 of 8, The Subluxation Specific — the Adjustment Specific

    IN8 THOTSGreen Book Series Section 2 of 8The Subluxation Specific — the adjustment specific : an exposition of the cause of all dis-ease “The Nervous System: The Master System”In Section 2 of the IN8 THOTS Green Book Series, Dr. Joe Sheppard explores why Dre. B.J. Palmer considered the nervous system to be the master coordinating system of the body and the central focus of chiropractic philosophy. This episode examines how chiropractic was designed not merely around the spine, but around communication within the nervous system and the body’s ability to adapt, heal, and function. Dr. Joe discusses vertebral subluxation as neurological interference rather than simply bones “out of place,” and explains why chiropractic philosophy emphasizes function and adaptability over symptom chasing alone. Topics include Innate Intelligence, stress adaptation, neurological coordination, the body’s remarkable organization, and why Dr. B.J. Palmer believed specificity and nervous system function were essential to the future of chiropractic. A foundational episode for chiropractors, students, patients, and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the relationship between the spine, nervous system, and human adaptability. Stay specific. Stay connected. And think from above-down, inside-out.

    11 min

  11. May 23

    IN8 THOTS Green Book Series Section 1 of 8, The Subluxation Specific — the Adjustment Specific

    IN8 THOTSGreen Book Series — Section 1 of 8The Subluxation Specific — the Adjustment Specific : an exposition of the cause of all dis-ease“Why Specific Matters”In this episode of the IN8 THOTS Green Book Series, Dr. Joe Sheppard explores the foundational chiropractic principle of specificity and why B.J. Palmer believed the future of chiropractic depended on precise analysis and precise adjustments. This episode discusses the evolution of chiropractic philosophy from symptom-based thinking toward neurological function, adaptability, and the concept of vertebral subluxation as interference within the nervous system. Dr. Joe explains why B.J. Palmer emphasized that “it is more important that the adjustment be specific than that it be forceful,” and how that idea transformed chiropractic history. Topics include Innate Intelligence, nervous system coordination, adaptation, holding adjustments, upper cervical philosophy, and why chiropractic was designed to focus on function rather than simply chasing symptoms. A foundational episode for chiropractors, students, patients, and anyone interested in the timeless principles behind specific chiropractic care. Stay specific. Stay connected. And think from above-down, inside-out.

    15 min

  12. May 23

    IN8 THOTS Introduction-Why The Green Books Matter

    IN8 THOTS — IntroductionWhy the Green Books Still MatterIn the Introductory episode of IN8 THOTS, Dr. Joe Sheppard explores why the Palmer Green Books continue to influence chiropractors more than a century after they were written. This episode dives into the foundational philosophy behind chiropractic and the timeless ideas introduced by B.J. Palmer, including Innate Intelligence, vertebral subluxation, neurological interference, adaptability, and the principle that “the power that made the body heals the body.” Dr. Joe discusses why chiropractic was never intended to be merely symptom-based care, but rather a philosophy centered around nervous system function, adaptation, and specific correction. Topics covered in this episode include: • Why the Green Books still matter today • The philosophy behind specific chiropractic • The meaning of vertebral subluxation • Innate Intelligence and organized healing • Why symptoms alone may not define health • The nervous system’s role in adaptation and function • The evolution of “The Subluxation Specific — The Adjustment Specific” • Why B.J. Palmer emphasized precision over force • How specificity shaped modern chiropractic philosophy This episode also introduces the upcoming Green Book series, where we will study and discuss major chiropractic principles including: • Universal Intelligence • The safety pin cycle • Tone • Upper cervical philosophy • Holding adjustments • Specific analysis • Neurological adaptability • And the evolution of chiropractic philosophy from above-down, inside-out Whether you’re a chiropractor, chiropractic student, patient, or someone curious about the foundational principles behind chiropractic care, this episode invites you to think deeper about health, healing, and the nervous system. Open the Green Books. Clear your thoughts. And think from Above-Down, Inside-Out. Hosted by Dr. Joe Sheppard.

    12 min
  • 12 Episodes

About

 “Welcome to IN8 THOTS — the chiropractic podcast dedicated to the timeless wisdom of the Palmer Green Books. I’m Dr. Joe Sheppard, and in each episode, I summarize, highlight and read from the original writings of B.J. Palmer and the pioneers of chiropractic philosophy, breaking down the principles, discussing the meaning behind the words, and highlighting the key concepts that shaped our profession. From the subluxation specific to innate intelligence, this podcast is about preserving the philosophy, understanding the science, and applying the art of chiropractic in today’s world. Let’s open the Green Books and think from Above-Down, Inside-Out.” 

Information

  • Creator
    Dr. Joe Sheppard
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    12
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 In8 Thots
  • Show Website
    In8 Thots