In8 Thots

Dr. Joe Sheppard
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Medicine

 “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.” 

  1. 3d ago

    IN8 THOTS Green Book Series Section 5 of 8, The Science of Chiropractic

    IN8 THOTS Green Book Series Section 5 of 8, The Science of Chiropractic The Science of Vertebral SubluxationIn Section 5 of the IN8 THOTS Green Book Series, Dr. Joe Sheppard explores one of the most defining principles of chiropractic philosophy—the science of vertebral subluxation. Building on the concepts of Universal Intelligence and Innate Intelligence, this episode examines why Dr. B.J. Palmer believed the nervous system is the body's master communication network and why efficient neurological communication is essential for health, healing, and adaptation. Dr. Joe explains how Dr. B.J. Palmer's concept of vertebral subluxation differs from the traditional medical definition. Rather than describing a simple structural misalignment, Dr. B.J. viewed vertebral subluxation as a functional disturbance that may interfere with the body's ability to communicate and adapt. The episode emphasizes that chiropractic is fundamentally concerned with improving function—not simply treating symptoms. Listeners are guided through Dr. B.J. Palmer's philosophy that the chiropractor's role is not to create healing, but to identify and reduce interference so the body's own innate intelligence can more effectively coordinate growth, repair, regulation, and adaptation. Dr. Joe discusses why communication throughout the nervous system is central to every aspect of human function and how modern neuroscience continues to reveal the remarkable complexity of this communication through concepts such as neuroplasticity, proprioception, and sensorimotor integration. The episode also explores one of Dr. B.J. Palmer's greatest clinical contributions—his pursuit of specificity. Rather than believing more adjustments automatically produce better outcomes, Dr. B.J. concluded that success depended upon delivering the right adjustment, in the right place, at the right time, and then allowing the body the opportunity to adapt. This philosophy eventually led to the development of the Hole-In-One (HIO) upper cervical approach and continues to influence specific chiropractic care around the world. Throughout the discussion, Dr. Joe encourages chiropractors and patients alike to appreciate the extraordinary intelligence already present within the human body. Rather than chasing symptoms alone, chiropractic seeks to restore efficient communication, improve function, and support the body's remarkable ability to express health. Key Topics CoveredDr. B.J. Palmer's definition of vertebral subluxationVertebral subluxation as a functional disturbance affecting neurological communicationThe nervous system as the body's master communication networkCommunication, coordination, and adaptation as foundations of healthStructure versus function in chiropractic philosophyThe chiropractor's role in reducing interference—not creating healingModern perspectives on neuroplasticity, proprioception, and sensorimotor integrationThe importance of specificity in chiropractic adjustmentsWhy Dr. B.J. Palmer emphasized "Find it. Fix it. Leave it Alone."The development of the Hole-In-One (HIO) upper cervical techniqueSupporting the body's innate ability to heal, regulate, and adapt

  2. Jul 21

    IN8 THOTS Green Book Series Section 4 of 8, The Science of Chiropractic Innate Intelligence: The Intelligence Within”

    IN8 THOTS Green Book Series Section 4 of 8, The Science of Chiropractic “Innate Intelligence: The Intelligence Within”In Section 4 of the IN8 THOTS Green Book Series, Dr. Joe Sheppard explores one of the most defining concepts in Dr. B.J. Palmer’s The Science of Chiropractic—Innate Intelligence. Building on the previous discussion of Universal Intelligence, this episode examines Dr. B.J. Palmer's belief that every living organism possesses an internal intelligence responsible for growth, organization, healing, regulation, and adaptation. Dr. Joe explains the distinction between Innate Intelligence and the conscious or educated mind, emphasizing that Innate Intelligence is not intellect or awareness, but the body's inherent ability to coordinate the countless processes that sustain life. Through examples of embryonic development, tissue repair, homeostasis, and nervous system function, listeners gain a deeper appreciation for the extraordinary intelligence expressed within every human being. The episode also explores the central role of the nervous system as the body's primary communication network. Dr. Joe discusses why Dr. B.J. Palmer believed clear neurological communication is essential for optimal function and how the chiropractic adjustment seeks to reduce interference—not create healing—allowing the body's own adaptive abilities to function more efficiently. The discussion introduces the philosophical significance of vertebral subluxation as interference to communication and explains how these ideas eventually led Dr. B.J. Palmer toward the development of the Hole-In-One (HIO) upper cervical approach. Drawing thoughtful connections to modern neuroscience, neuroplasticity, autonomic regulation, systems biology, and homeostasis, the episode demonstrates how today's scientific understanding continues to reveal the remarkable complexity and coordination of the human body while encouraging listeners to appreciate the body's innate capacity to adapt. Throughout the episode, Dr. Joe reminds chiropractors, students, and patients that the role of the chiropractor is not to create healing, but to respect the body's wisdom, support normal function, and remove obstacles that may interfere with its natural ability to regulate and adapt. Key Topics:Understanding Innate Intelligence in chiropractic philosophyThe difference between Innate Intelligence and the conscious mindThe nervous system as the body's communication networkHealing, adaptation, and the body's self-regulating capacityThe chiropractor's role in reducing interference rather than creating healingVertebral subluxation as interference to communicationThe foundation of the Hole-In-One (HIO) upper cervical conceptModern neuroscience, neuroplasticity, and systems biology parallelsRespecting the body's remarkable intelligence and lifelong adaptabilityThis episode serves as the philosophical bridge between Universal Intelligence and the clinical application of chiropractic, preparing listeners for the next chapter in The Science of Chiropractic series, where Dr. Joe will explore The Science of Vertebral Subluxation and Dr. B.J. Palmer's pursuit of specificity in chiropractic care. Stay specific. Stay connected. And keep thinking from Above-Down, Inside-Out.

  3. Jul 14

    IN8 THOTS Green Book Series Section 3 of 8, The Science of Chiropractic

    IN8 THOTS Green Book Series, Section 3 of 8 The Science of Chiropractic “Universal Intelligence: The Laws That Govern Life”In Section 3 of the IN8 THOTS Green Book Series, Dr. Joe Sheppard explores one of the most foundational concepts in Dr. B.J. Palmer’s The Science of Chiropractic—Universal Intelligence. This episode examines how Dr. B.J. Palmer viewed the universe as an orderly, organized system governed by consistent natural laws and why he believed recognizing those laws was essential to understanding chiropractic. Dr. Joe explains the distinction between Universal Intelligence and Innate Intelligence, demonstrating how Dr. B.J. Palmer described Universal Intelligence as the organizing principle of the universe and Innate Intelligence as its expression within living organisms. Through historical context and thoughtful discussion, the episode explores how these ideas shaped chiropractic philosophy and laid the groundwork for understanding the body's remarkable ability to coordinate, regulate, and adapt. Listeners will also discover how many of Dr. B.J. Palmer's observations parallel modern concepts in systems biology, neuroplasticity, homeostasis, and complex adaptive systems. While today's scientific language has evolved, the episode highlights the enduring relevance of viewing the human body as an integrated, communicating, and self-regulating organism rather than a collection of isolated parts. Throughout the discussion, Dr. Joe encourages chiropractors, students, and patients to approach the Green Books with curiosity, intellectual humility, and a lifelong commitment to learning. More than simply presenting philosophical concepts, this episode challenges listeners to develop a greater appreciation for the order, intelligence, and remarkable design expressed throughout nature and within every human body. Key Topics:Understanding Universal Intelligence in chiropractic philosophyThe difference between Universal Intelligence and Innate IntelligenceNatural law, organization, and order in the universeHistorical context of Dr. B.J. Palmer's philosophySystems biology, neuroplasticity, and modern scientific parallelsThe body as an integrated, adaptive systemThe importance of observation, curiosity, and lifelong learningWhy Universal Intelligence remains relevant to chiropractic todayThis episode builds upon the Major Premise introduced in Section 2 and prepares listeners for the next chapter in The Science of Chiropractic series, where Dr. Joe will explore Innate Intelligence—the intelligence within every living organism—and its central role in chiropractic philosophy. Stay specific. Stay connected. And keep thinking from Above-Down, Inside-Out.

  4. Jul 7

    IN8 THOTS Green Book Series Section 2 of 8, The Science of Chiropractic

    IN8 THOTS Green Book Series Section 2 of 8, The Science of Chiropractic“The Major Premise: The Foundation of Chiropractic Science”In Section 2 of the IN8 THOTS Green Book Series, Dr. Joe Sheppard takes a deeper look into one of the most fundamental concepts in chiropractic philosophy—the Major Premise. Drawing from Dr. B.J. Palmer’s The Science of Chiropractic, this episode explores why every science begins with foundational principles and why Dr. B.J. believed chiropractic could not be fully understood without first understanding its philosophical foundation. Dr. Joe explains how the Major Premise serves as the cornerstone of the 33 Principles of Chiropractic, providing the framework that guides chiropractic thinking, analysis, and clinical application. The discussion explores Dr. B.J. Palmer's view that the body is an organized, intelligent system designed to adapt and function through the coordination of the nervous system. Rather than focusing solely on symptoms, chiropractic begins by understanding health, function, and the body's remarkable ability to organize, communicate, and adapt. The episode also examines the relationship between chiropractic philosophy and scientific inquiry, emphasizing that science and philosophy are complementary rather than opposing disciplines. Drawing connections to modern neuroscience, systems biology, neuroplasticity, and human physiology, Dr. Joe demonstrates how many of Dr. B.J. Palmer's observations continue to resonate with today's understanding of communication and regulation within the human body. Listeners are encouraged to think critically, remain lifelong students, and appreciate that great chiropractors are guided by enduring principles rather than simply mastering techniques. Whether you're a practicing chiropractor, chiropractic student, or someone interested in the philosophy behind chiropractic, this episode provides a deeper understanding of the ideas that continue to shape the profession. Key Topics:Understanding the Major Premise of ChiropracticThe foundation of the 33 Principles of ChiropracticWhy every science begins with first principlesThe relationship between philosophy and scientific reasoningThe body as an organized and adaptive systemPrinciples versus procedures in chiropractic practiceModern neuroscience and systems biology parallelsLifelong learning, critical thinking, and professional growthThis episode builds upon the foundation established in Section 1 and challenges listeners to see chiropractic not simply as a clinical technique, but as a profession grounded in timeless principles that continue to inspire scientific inquiry, thoughtful practice, and a deeper appreciation for the remarkable intelligence expressed through life.

  5. Jun 30

    IN8 THOTS Green Book Series Section 1 of 8, The Science of Chiropractic

    IN8 THOTS Green Book Series Section 1 of 8, The Science of Chiropractic“Why Chiropractic Needed Its Own Science”In the opening episode of the IN8 THOTS series on The Science of Chiropractic, Dr. Joe Sheppard introduces one of Dr. B.J. Palmer’s most intellectually significant Green Books and explores why he believed chiropractic required its own scientific foundation. This episode examines the historical challenges facing the young chiropractic profession and explains why Dr. B.J. Palmer sought to establish chiropractic as a science built upon timeless principles rather than techniques alone. Dr. Joe discusses the meaning of science as a process of observation, critical thinking, and the pursuit of truth, while highlighting Dr. B.J.'s belief that principles must always precede procedures. Listeners are introduced to the philosophical and scientific framework that shaped chiropractic's identity and continue to influence the profession today. Topics include the definition of science, the relationship between philosophy and scientific inquiry, the importance of observation, the role of the nervous system in human function, lifelong learning, intellectual humility, and how modern neuroscience continues to reinforce many of the concepts that Dr. B.J. Palmer explored decades ago. The episode also emphasizes that chiropractic is more than a collection of techniques—it is a discipline grounded in principles that seek to better understand life, health, adaptation, and human potential. Key Topics: Why Dr. B.J. Palmer believed chiropractic needed its own scienceThe difference between principles and proceduresScience as observation, inquiry, and critical thinkingThe relationship between chiropractic philosophy and scientific reasoningThe nervous system and the organization of lifeLifelong learning and intellectual humilityModern neuroscience and chiropractic principlesBuilding the scientific foundation of chiropracticThis introductory episode sets the stage for the entire Science of Chiropractic series and invites listeners to explore how Dr. B.J. Palmer's pursuit of scientific understanding helped define the philosophy, identity, and future of the chiropractic profession. Stay specific. Stay connected. And keep thinking from Above-Down, Inside-Out.

  6. Jun 23

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

    IN8 THOTS Green Book Series Section 8 of 8, The Bigness of the Fellow Within“The Legacy of the Fellow Within”In the final episode of the IN8 THOTS Green Book Series, Dr. Joe Sheppard concludes his exploration of Dr. B.J. Palmer’s The Bigness of the Fellow Within by reflecting on its enduring message and its profound impact on chiropractic philosophy, personal growth, and purposeful living. This episode brings together the central themes explored throughout the series—Innate Intelligence, Universal Intelligence, the nervous system, the chiropractic adjustment, human potential, leadership, and service and explains how they unite to form Dr. B.J. Palmer's vision of helping people express more life. Dr. Joe discusses why chiropractic is more than a profession; it is a calling rooted in honoring the body's innate wisdom, serving others with compassion, and helping individuals reach their fullest potential. Listeners will discover why the greatest legacy of The Bigness of the Fellow Within is not simply understanding chiropractic philosophy, but living it every day. The episode explores the importance of lifelong learning, humility, gratitude, purpose, and service while encouraging chiropractors, students, and patients alike to become ambassadors for health, hope, and human potential. As the series concludes, Dr. Joe challenges listeners to look beyond symptoms and diagnoses, recognize the extraordinary intelligence within every person, and appreciate that the greatest discoveries in life often come not from the outside world, but from the remarkable potential that already exists within. Key Topics: The lasting legacy of The Bigness of the Fellow WithinDr. B.J. Palmer's vision for the future of chiropracticLiving the principles of Innate Intelligence every dayThe chiropractor as a servant, teacher, and leaderLifelong learning, humility, and personal growthHealth as the full expression of human potentialBuilding a legacy through purpose, compassion, and serviceDiscovering the greatness already within every personThis inspiring finale concludes the eight-part journey through one of the most influential Green Books ever written and serves as a powerful reminder that chiropractic is not merely about restoring health—it is about helping people discover, express, and live the greatness of the Fellow Within.

  7. Jun 16

    IN8 THOTS Green Book Series Section 7 of 8, The Bigness of the Fellow Within

    IN8 THOTS Green Book Series Section 7 of 8, The Bigness of the Fellow Within“Living from the Fellow Within: Purpose, Leadership, and Service”In Section 7 of the IN8 THOTS Green Book Series, Dr. Joe Sheppard explores how the philosophy of Dr. B.J. Palmer extends far beyond the chiropractic adjustment and into every aspect of life. Building on the principles of The Bigness of the Fellow Within, this episode examines how understanding the intelligence within should shape the way we lead, serve, build relationships, and fulfill our purpose. Dr. Joe discusses Dr. B.J. Palmer’s belief that true leadership begins with self-discipline, integrity, and personal growth before it can positively influence others. Listeners will discover how chiropractic is not simply a profession focused on relieving pain, but a calling centered on helping people express greater health, resilience, hope, and purpose. The episode also explores the difference between success and significance, emphasizing that the greatest legacy is measured by the lives we impact through service and compassion. Topics include leadership, service, character, authenticity, gratitude, responsibility, purpose, community influence, and the chiropractor’s opportunity to inspire people to become the fullest expression of themselves. This episode challenges listeners to view chiropractic philosophy not only as a clinical approach but as a guide for living a meaningful and impactful life. Key Topics: Living from the Fellow WithinLeadership through integrity and serviceSuccess versus significanceThe chiropractor as a teacher, mentor, and leaderAuthenticity and personal responsibilityCharacter, compassion, and lifelong growthBuilding a lasting legacy through serviceExpressing the intelligence within every dayA motivating episode for chiropractors, students, patients, and anyone seeking to live with greater purpose, inspire others, and express the fullest potential of the Fellow Within.

  8. Jun 12

    IN8 THOTS Green Book Series Section 6 of 8, The Bigness of the Fellow Within

    IN8 THOTSGreen Book Series Section 6 of 8, The Bigness of the Fellow Within“The Untapped Potential Within Every Human Being”In Section 6 of the IN8 THOTS Green Book Series, Dr. Joe Sheppard explores one of the most inspiring messages in Dr. B.J. Palmer’s The Bigness of the Fellow Within: the extraordinary potential that exists within every human being. This episode examines Dr. B.J. Palmer’s belief that people consistently underestimate their own capacity for growth, healing, resilience, and purpose. Dr. Joe discusses how the "Fellow Within" represents more than the body's ability to survive, it reflects our untapped potential to adapt, overcome challenges, and become the fullest expression of ourselves. Through the lens of chiropractic philosophy, listeners are encouraged to look beyond limitations and recognize the remarkable intelligence that has been working on their behalf since the beginning of life. Topics include human potential, neuroplasticity, resilience, personal responsibility, gratitude, hope, adaptation, and the chiropractor’s role in helping people remove interference so they can function closer to their true potential. The episode also explores how chiropractic care extends beyond pain relief by helping individuals reconnect with the body's innate capacity for growth, healing, and purposeful living. Key Topics: The untapped potential within every personThe Fellow Within and human possibilityNeuroplasticity and lifelong adaptationHope, resilience, and personal growthGratitude for the body's remarkable intelligencePersonal responsibility for health and wellnessThe chiropractor's role in supporting human potentialLiving beyond limitations through better functionThis inspiring episode challenges chiropractors, students, patients, and anyone seeking personal growth to recognize that true health is not simply the absence of illness, but the fullest expression of the intelligence, resilience, and purpose already present within them.

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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
    2026
  • Episodes
    22
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 In8 Thots
  • Show Website
    In8 Thots