The Informed Chiropractor Podcast

Dr. Don MacDonald
The Informed Chiropractor Podcast

Dive into the 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 neurological safety.

  1. 6 DAYS AGO

    90 Days Changed Everything: Dr. Ali Miller's Chiropractic Success Story

    In this episode of The Informed Chiropractor, Dr. Ali talks about how her passion for helping children and families shaped her journey into chiropractic care. Inspired by her mother’s life-changing experience with chiropractic, Dr. Ali decided to create that same kind of impact for others. She shares how her early love for working with kids led her to focus on pediatric care. After graduating from Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College, she opened her Family Health Chiropractic & Wellness practice. She earned additional pediatrics and pregnancy care training through the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA). Dr. Ali also reflects on her experience with the 90-day mentoring program, The Macdonald Safety Corridor Program which she credits as a major turning point for her practice. It gave her the tools to break records and take her business to new levels, all while staying true to her purpose. Listen as we discuss: How Dr. Ali found her calling in family-focused chiropractic care. The importance of pediatric and prenatal training in building trust with families. How mentorship helped her grow her practice and confidence. Her advice for chiropractors looking to make a lasting impact. Dr. Ali’s story is a great reminder that when you combine passion and focus, you can make a difference in people’s lives and build a practice that you love. Episode Highlights:(00:00 - 03:20): Dr. Ali’s Early Inspiration(03:20 - 12:00): Building a Pediatric Practice(12:00 - 21:50): How Mentorship Transformed Her Growth(21:50- 23: 46): Advice for Staying Focused on Your Goals 📲 Let’s Connect:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theinformedchiropractorInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/informed_chiropractor/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theInformedChiropractor #ChiropracticCare #FamilyHealth #PediatricChiropractic #MentorshipSuccess #InformedChiropractor #PracticeGrowth #ChiropracticJourney #Chiropractic adjustments #chiropracticseminarsUK #brainbasedadjusting #polyvagaltheorychiropractic #MacDonaldSafetyCorridor #cranialadjustments #chiropractictrainingUK #nervoussystemhealth #holisticchiropracticcare #chiropractorworkshops #patientcenteredchiropractic #communityUK #advancedchiropractictechniques #UKchiropracticseminars

    26 min
  2. 5 Ways to Improve Your Regulatory Reserves for High Performance

    NOV 13

    5 Ways to Improve Your Regulatory Reserves for High Performance

    In this episode of The Informed Chiropractor, Dr. Don MacDonald explains how strengthening your regulatory reserves supports peak performance in life and practice. Using insights from Polyvagal Theory, Dr. MacDonald shows why a regulated nervous system is key to staying resilient, adaptable, and focused, especially for chiropractors looking to enhance their personal and professional lives. Through practical advice, Dr. MacDonald emphasizes how keeping your body in a state of “ease” rather than “dis-ease” improves your ability to handle stress and overcome setbacks. Using relatable examples, he shows how even a challenging situation, like a golfer’s bad shot, can be managed smoothly when your regulatory reserves are strong. Tune in as we cover these 5 powerful strategies to build your regulatory reserves: Good Co-regulators: Surround yourself with people who support your goals and well-being. True co-regulators don’t just push you toward success; they help you stay grounded and regulated. Mastering Your Finances: Financial stability reduces stress and enables you to focus more fully on your chiropractic practice and life purpose. Aligned Business Procedures: Develop strong business protocols that reflect your chiropractic philosophy to minimize daily “drama” and stay in a regulated state. Solid Relationships: Relationships should have clear boundaries and mutual respect. Toxic relationships are one of the quickest ways to become dysregulated. Connected Movement: Choose exercises that increase body awareness and interoception. Avoid workouts that disconnect you from your body, as this can deplete, rather than build, your regulatory reserves. Whether looking to become a more effective chiropractor, business owner, or leader, these five methods will help you cultivate resilience, enabling you to perform at a high level without succumbing to burnout or stress. Listen now to transform your practice and life by building a stronger foundation for regulation and resilience. Episode Timestamps: (00:00 - 02:03): Regulatory Reserves Explained(02:03 - 03:15): Regulatory State of the Nervous system.(03:15 -15:24): 5 Ways to Improve Your Regulatory Reserves for High Performance (15:24 - 16:19): Upcoming Event 📲 Let’s Connect!  Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/theinformedchiropractor  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/informed_chiropractor/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theInformedChiropractor #Chiropractic adjustments #chiropracticseminarsUK #brainbasedadjusting #polyvaga theorychiropractic #MacDonaldSafetyCorridor #cranialadjustments #chiropractictrainingUK #nervoussystemhealth #holisticchiropracticcare #chiropractorworkshops #patientcenteredchiropractic #communityUK #advancedchiropractictechniques #UKchiropracticseminars

    18 min
  3. Specialized Adjustments for Pregnant Women and Pediatric Care

    OCT 31

    Specialized Adjustments for Pregnant Women and Pediatric Care

    In this episode of The Informed Chiropractor, Dr. Nicole Leaderman, an expert in chiropractic care for pregnant women and children joins us to discuss the unique needs and benefits of chiropractic adjustments for pregnant women and children. Dr. Leaderman will join us at our upcoming seminar as a guest teacher, sharing her insights on safe and effective adjustment techniques for expecting mothers and pediatric patients. She also discusses her approach to creating a supportive environment and practical strategies for chiropractors working with these unique patient groups. Dr. Leaderman also discusses her journey in building a successful chiropractic practice, her essential techniques, and tips for those entering the field. If you're a chiropractor, student, or anyone interested in the benefits of chiropractic care for specialized populations, this episode is packed with actionable insights and practical advice. Whether you're a chiropractor or simply looking to refine your technique, this episode offers valuable knowledge. To register for our upcoming event.Visit: https://www.theinformedchiropractor.comShow Notes (00:00 - 01:17): Introduction (01:17 - 08:31): Dr. Nicole Leaderman’s Journey and Specialization (08:31 - 12:50): Essential Techniques for Adjusting Pregnant Women (12:50 - 14:56): Pediatric Chiropractic Care Essentials (14:56 - 22:29): Preparing for the Upcoming Seminar (22:29 - 25:59): Why Regular Adjustments Matter for Chiropractors (25:59 - 26:27): Key Takeaways for Chiropractors (26:27 - 27:35 ): Outro📲 Let’s Connect!  Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/theinformedchiropractor  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/informed_chiropractor/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theInformedChiropractor

    28 min
  4. OCT 17

    Beyond Pain Relief: How Brain-Based Adjusting Targets the Nervous System

    In this episode of The Informed Chiropractor Dr. Don MacDonald shares his transformative MacDonald Safety Corridor Protocol—a method to make chiropractic adjustments neurologically safer and more effective. Joined by Dr. Donald Francis, they explore how this approach can elevate patient care, focusing on creating a welcoming practice, co-regulating with patients, and understanding the deeper connections between the brain and body. They talked about the power of advanced techniques like cranial adjustments and discussed why the Safety Corridor is essential for every chiropractor who aims to build trust and deliver precision care. If you’re a chiropractor looking to enhance your practice, this episode is packed with valuable insights, real-world examples, and upcoming seminar opportunities that will guide you toward mastering this innovative protocol. Dr. Donald dives deep into how targeting the nervous system can create profound results in patient outcomes, and how this method helps chiropractors make a lasting impact on the health and well-being of their communities. Learn how brain-based chiropractic adjusts subluxations and taps into the body’s innate ability to heal, elevate, and thrive. Don’t miss out—your next breakthrough in chiropractic care might be just a listen away! The next seminar coming up in Windsor, UK, on Saturday, November 16th, 2024 https://www.theinformedchiropractor.com/windsor  📈 To find out more about The Informed Chiropractor and join the waitlist click here: https://www.theinformedchiropractor.com/the-informed-chiropractor   Show Notes:   0:00: Introduction  2:39: Catching up with Dr. Donald FrancisReminiscing about the evolution of chiropractic practices and the changes over the years. 6:39: How the Vitality Shift Podcast Has Helped OthersExploring stories of chiropractors who have transformed their practices through insights from the Vitality Shift Podcast. 8:43: Understanding How the Body’s Neurological Structure WorksDelving into the intricate connections within the body’s nervous system and why it matters for effective adjustments. 9:52: The Cranial Adjustments Techniques/MethodsBreaking down the methods and benefits of cranial adjustments for improved patient outcomes. 11:38: The Polyvagal Theory ExplainedUnderstanding the role of the polyvagal theory in chiropractic care and its impact on the nervous system. 19:30: Why the MacDonald Safety CorridorDiscussing the importance of this protocol for safer and more precise chiropractic adjustments. 24:57: From Unconscious Incompetent to Conscious CompetentThe journey of self-improvement and skill mastery in chiropractic care. 27:20: Talking About Brain-Based AdjustingA deep dive into brain-based adjusting and how it brings a new level of care to patients. 30:03: Seminars on the Principles of the MacDonald Safety CorridorInformation on upcoming seminars that teach the essential principles of the Safety Corridor for chiropractors. 40:30: A Better Approach to Better Chiropractic PracticeHow adopting the MacDonald Safety Corridor Protocol can elevate patient care and satisfaction. 43:08: Upcoming Seminar in the UKDetails on the next seminar in the UK, focusing on hands-on training and best practices. 44:86: Final Notes to Practice MembersWrapping up with key takeaways for chiropractors and advice for integrating new techniques into practice. 📲 Let’s Connect! Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/theinformedchiropractor Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/informed_chiropractor/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theInformedChiropractor #ChiropracticCare #MacDonaldSafetyCorridor #ChiropracticPodcast #NervousSystemHealth #ChiropractorTraining #podcast #Trends #UKtrends #Chiropractic adjustments #chiropracticseminarsUK #brainbasedadjusting #polyvaga theorychiropractic #MacDonaldSafetyCorridor #cranialadjustments #chiropractictrainingUK #nervoussystemhealth #holisticchiropracticcare #chiropractorworkshops #patientcenteredchiropractic #communityUK #ad

    50 min
  5. OCT 3

    The MacDonald Safety Corridor: A Revolutionary Approach to Chiropractic Care

    Welcome back to The Informed Chiropractor!In this episode, Dr. Don MacDonald talks about a game-changing protocol in the chiropractic world—The MacDonald Safety Corridor. This technique is all about making chiropractic adjustments safer, more effective, and consistent across the board. Whether you’re a seasoned chiropractor or just starting, this episode will give you valuable insights on how this approach can improve your practice and patient outcomes. Dr. MacDonald walks us through the three key seminars that chiropractors can attend to master this technique—from foundational skills to advanced applications.By following these steps, chiropractors can ensure they are delivering safer, smarter care to their patients, which not only boosts patient trust but also enhances long-term practice success. If you’re looking for ways to sharpen your adjusting techniques and make sure every adjustment is in the “safety corridor,” you won’t want to miss this one. Tune in for practical tips, real-life examples, and a clear understanding of how to apply the MacDonald Safety Corridor Protocol in your chiropractic care.Whether you’re treating athletes or everyday patients, this protocol offers a solid path to improving your practice.Show Notes: (00:00) IntroductionDr. Don MacDonald introduces the MacDonald Safety Corridor Protocol. (01:75) The Impact of a Welcoming PracticeCreating a comfortable practice environment that fosters patient trust. (04:15) Co-Regulation: The Chiropractor’s RoleChiropractor-patient collaboration enhances care and nervous system regulation. (07:53) Understanding the Six Safety CorridorsExplaining the six critical corridors for ensuring patient safety. (10:30) The Education CorridorChiropractors must continually evolve through education and knowledge expansion. (12:45) Enhancing Lives One Nervous System at a TimeOptimizing patients’ nervous systems for long-term health and wellbeing. (16:55) The Interoceptive Corridor: Brain-Body ConnectionExploring the crucial link between the brain and body functions. (18:10) The Hierarchy of the Nervous SystemBreaking down different levels of the nervous system hierarchy. (19:30) Force Application and SafetyProper force application in adjustments ensures safety and effectiveness. (21:01) Upcoming Chiropractic Seminars and The MacDonald Safety Corridor ExplainedDetails on seminars and comprehensive breakdown of the Safety Corridor Protocol. 📈 To find out more about The Informed Chiropractor and join the waitlist click here: https://www.theinformedchiropractor.com/the-informed-chiropractor 📲 Let’s Connect! Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/theinformedchiropractor Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/informed_chiropractor/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theInformedChiropractor   #MacDonaldSafetyCorridor #chiropractic #adjustingtechniques #nervoussystemhierarchy #forceapplication #chiropracticseminars #chiropractic education #chiropractor-patient co-regulation #chiropractic safety #brain-body connection #chiropractors.

    23 min
  6. How Focus Can Change Everything: The Key to Achieving Your Goals

    SEP 19

    How Focus Can Change Everything: The Key to Achieving Your Goals

    In this episode of The Informed Chiropractor, Dr. Don MacDonald welcomes Brandi MacDonald, the visionary behind True Concepts Inc. and True Concepts Seminars, for a special season finale before their summer break. Brandi is well-known for her expertise in chiropractic education and coaching, and today, they tackle the often-undervalued superpower of focus—a crucial element for achieving both personal growth and business success. As they reflect on their own experiences, Brandi and Don discuss how maintaining focus has transformed their chiropractic business, helped them grow as individuals, and improved their ability to guide others. They dive into topics like time management, delayed gratification, and how staying committed to your core values can lead to long-term results, both in your chiropractic practice and in life. This relatable conversation gives you practical insights on how to sharpen your focus, balance work with relaxation, and set yourself up for success. Tune in to hear their summer plans and get excited about what’s coming next in September, including the highly anticipated Super Conference in Toronto! Show Notes: (00:00): Introduction(01:24): Evolving Practice Focus and Business Acumen(03:29): Becoming Your Own Change Agent(07:03): Focus and Delayed Gratification(11:06): Time Management and Values(12:39): Time Study and Value Reflection(14:46): The Business of Chiropractic(16:05): The Power of Focus in Business(22:14): The Importance of Routine and Focus(24:15): Upcoming Super Conference in Toronto📈 To find out more about The Informed Chiropractor and join the waitlist click here: https://www.theinformedchiropractor.com/the-informed-chiropractor 📲 Let’s Connect! Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/theinformedchiropractor Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/informed_chiropractor/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheInformedChiropractor

    27 min
  7. JUN 20

    Simplifying Chiropractic Principles for Better Patient Care w/ Brandi MacDonald

    Join Dr. Don MacDonald for a special episode as he welcomes Brandi MacDonald, for a final episode before their summer break.   Brandi, owner of True Concepts Inc. and True Concepts Seminars, is renowned for her transformative work in chiropractic education.    Together, they reflect on recent global events, observations from teaching polyvagal theory, and the profound impact of perceived safety in chiropractic practice.   Brandi shares her perspective on simplifying chiropractic principles and enhancing patient care through innovative approaches.    Tune in as they share their plans for a relaxing summer, promising to return in September with more discussions on chiropractic care and education.Show Notes:  (00:00): Introduction (02:23): Reflecting on our global events and MacDonald Safety Corridor Protocol (04:06): Insights from teaching polyvagal theory to chiropractors (08:34): The importance of perceived safety in learning (13:59): Bringing the feeling back to chiropractic practice (18:15): Gender differences in attraction to safety concepts (21:35): The female dominance in polyvagal seminars (26:12): Improving public understanding of chiropractic care (27:48): The central role of chiropractic adjustment in patient care (31:08): Enhancing chiropractic care with polyvagal theory (35:52): Upcoming global chiropractic events (38:21): A final message to chiropractors (41:49): Reflecting on teaching chiropractic techniques 📈 To find out more about The Informed Chiropractor and join the waitlist click here: https://www.theinformedchiropractor.com/the-informed-chiropractor   📲 Let’s Connect! Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/theinformedchiropractor Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/informed_chiropractor/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheInformedChiropractor

    46 min
  8. MAY 30

    The Everyday Millionaire: Health Chiropractic and the Polyvagal theory w/ Patrick Francey

    In this episode, Dr. Don MacDonald gets interviewed by his friend, Patrick Francey, host of The Everyday Millionaire Podcast.    In this insightful conversation, Don delves into the world of polyvagal theory and chiropractic care, seeking to understand how they intersect and impact stress management and overall well-being.    This episode offers valuable insights for chiropractors and any health practitioner. From exploring the components of polyvagal theory to discussing the essential skills of chiropractic care, it explores the complexities of the practice.   Discover how chiropractic care promotes emotional and physical balance, enhances emotional regulation, and fosters healing through safety cues.    Gain practical tips and advice for prioritizing mental and physical health, understanding trauma, and achieving the goals of chiropractic practice.    Whether you're a chiropractor or simply interested in holistic health, this episode provides a wealth of knowledge to help you navigate stress, promote healing, and optimize your well-being. Show Notes:  (00:00): Introduction (04:03): What is polyvagal theory? (08:12): Three components of polyvagal theory (12:08): The role of safety in stress and relaxation (18:23): The four chiropractic essential skills (22:41): Chiropractic benefits (26:48): Understanding co-regulation (32:28): How chiropractic care promotes emotional and physical balance (35:50): How chiropractors enhance emotional regulation (39:02): The impact of chiropractic care (41:52): Three T’s of chiropractic: Thoughts, Toxins and Traumas (44:33): Prioritizing mental and physical health (48:16): The role of safety cues in chiropractic healing (52:31): Connecting with your body and mind (58:10): Understanding Trauma (01:05:31): The goals of chiropractors (01:09:30): Tips and advice for chiropractors   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/theinformedchiropractor Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/informed_chiropractor/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheInformedChiropractor

    1h 14m
4.1
out of 5
74 Ratings

About

Dive into the 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 neurological safety.

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