Restore To Explore

In this conversation, Jim Dooner and Heidi Van Mastrigt discuss the evolution of coaching in pain management, emphasizing a functional approach over symptom-based treatments. They explore the importance of thorough assessments in understanding foot function and the impact of footwear on overall health. Heidi shares her personal journey with footwear and how it informs her recommendations for clients. The discussion highlights the need for a cultural shift in footwear awareness, particularly in athletic communities, to promote better foot health and performance. In this conversation, Jim Dooner and Heidi Van Mastrigt discuss the importance of footwear, particularly minimalist shoes, in enhancing foot health and movement. They emphasize the need for education in understanding the benefits of different types of shoes and how they can impact training. The discussion shifts to the versatility of training tools like the SoleMate, highlighting it's accessibility and effectiveness in improving movement patterns. They also touch on the significance of variability in training environments to promote adaptability and prevent injuries. Overall, the conversation underscores the importance of education and accessibility in movement training.Follow Heidi on Instagram here.Check out Heidi's website here. Helpful Links & Discounts: ⬇️If you want to learn about our ultimate 12-week 'Foot Restoration Program' click here and use code 'R2E10' for 10% off: Foot Restoration Program (Our most effective online foot health solution) Shop TFC tools and training (Use the code R2E10 to save 10%)   A Special Thanks to our sponsor of this episode: Vivobarefoot Vivobarefoot ticks all the boxes when it comes to natural footwear: foot-shaped, fixed, flat, flexible, and designed to help you feel the ground. Their mission to promote human and planetary health aligns perfectly with ours at TFC. Ready to experience that same foot freedom? Head to this link and use code THEFOOTCOLLECTIVE for up to 20% off your next pair. Your feet—and the planet—will thank you.  Follow The Foot Collective: Instagram TikTok YouTube Facebook  DISCLAIMER: The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to your health, fitness, or treatment plans. Music: Soundstripe.com

In today’s episode, I’m joined by Chad Little, a footwear designer who once worked for Nike designing shoes like Air Jordans but now he’s the founder of CODE Footwear — a company making waves by putting foot health first. Chad’s story is a powerful example of what happens when curiosity, truth, and creativity collide. From presenting a foot health pitch directly to Michael Jordan, to building custom cleats for NFL athletes out of his basement — his journey reveals the hidden cost of modern footwear and the potential for change from the ground up. We talk about how elite performance and natural foot function don’t need to be at odds, what’s broken in the current footwear system, and why it’s time for the next generation of shoes to serve the foot — not the other way around.Check out CODE Footwear HereFollow CODE Footwear on Instagram HereHelpful Links & Discounts: ⬇️If you want to learn about our ultimate 12-week 'Foot Restoration Program' click here and use code 'R2E10' for 10% off: Foot Restoration Program (Our most effective online foot health solution) Shop TFC tools and training (Use the code R2E10 to save 10%) A Special Thanks to our sponsor of this episode: Vivobarefoot Vivobarefoot ticks all the boxes when it comes to natural footwear: foot-shaped, fixed, flat, flexible, and designed to help you feel the ground. Their mission to promote human and planetary health aligns perfectly with ours at TFC. To celebrate the launch of the new Primus Flow - Vivo’s first barefoot running shoes - we have a special offer just for our audience. Use the code THEFOOTCOLLECTIVE25 to save up to 25% on selected styles until May 15 2025. Don’t think Vivo’s are for you, our footwear finders has a tonne of trusted natural footwear brands from around the world with special discounts. SHOP HERE. Follow The Foot Collective: Instagram TikTok YouTube Facebook  DISCLAIMER: The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to your health, fitness, or treatment plans. Music: Soundstripe.com

In this episode, Jim sits down with David Weck, a pioneering movement coach, inventor of the BOSU Ball and the founder of Weck Method—based in San Diego, California. Jim was first introduced to David’s work through rope flow in 2020 during lockdowns, casually exploring the practice as a fun way to mobilise his shoulders and thoracic spine. However, it wasn’t until a visit to the Weck Lab in 2024 that his perspective dramatically shifted. Through hands-on experience and in-depth education with David and the team, Jim deepened his understanding of the powerful rotational movement principles behind Weck Method - applicable not only to athletic performance but to restoring foundational human movement in everyday life. Since then, Jim has attended multiple Weck Method certifications and incorporated its tools and principles into his own training and TFC’s programming. The impact has been game-changing - transforming how he trains, moves, and even walks and runs. Rope flow and rotational drills have now made their way into weekly team training sessions at TFC and community classes with powerful feedback from participants. This episode captures that learning journey and the sit-down conversation with David Weck himself, recorded during Jim’s visit to the Weck Lab. While the team encountered technical issues with the audio recording, they’ve worked to preserve the best parts of this passionate, no-holds-barred discussion - so please excuse the occasional jump in the conversation, especially for YouTube viewers. Listeners should also note that the episode contains some strong language, reflecting David’s unfiltered passion for movement education and his critiques of common myths in the fitness world. If this episode sparks your curiosity about Weck Method, Jim highly recommends experiencing it firsthand—either through a local coach or by exploring the many free resources available online.  Check out the Weck Method website here. Follow David on Instagram here. Follow Weck Method on Instagram here. If you want to learn more about our ultimate 12-week 'Foot Restoration Program' click here and use code 'R2E10' for 10% off: Foot Restoration Program (Our most effective online foot health solution) Helpful Links & Discounts: ⬇️ Shop TFC tools and training (Use the code R2E10 to save 10%) Shop Vivobarefoot (Use code THEFOOTCOLLECTIVE to save up to 20%) Follow The Foot Collective: Instagram TikTok YouTube Facebook  A Special Thanks to our sponsor of this episode: Vivobarefoot Vivobarefoot ticks all the boxes when it comes to natural footwear: foot-shaped, fixed, flat, flexible, and designed to help you feel the ground. Their mission to promote human and planetary health aligns perfectly with ours at TFC. To celebrate the launch of the new Primus Flow - Vivo’s first barefoot running shoes - we have a special offer just for our audience. If you use the code THEFOOTCOLLECTIVE25 to save 25% on selected styles until May 15 2025. Don’t think Vivo’s are for you, our footwear finders has a tonne of trusted natural footwear brands from around the world with special discounts. SHOP HERE. DISCLAIMER: The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to your health, fitness, or treatment plans. Music: Just Stay - Strength To Last

In this episode of the Restore to Explore podcast, Jim sits down with Ben Watson — a Gold Coast-based personal trainer, mixed martial artist, certified TFC Guide, and WEC Method master coach. Ben’s journey through martial arts has deeply shaped his training philosophy, which blends skill development, rotational movement, and the power of play. Together, they explore the role of simple tools as teachers, why having fun is key to sustainable training, and how WEC Method is changing the way we approach movement. This conversation offers a great introduction to WEC Method principles — setting the stage for next week’s episode with David Weck himself, recorded live from the Weck Lab in San Diego. Whether you're curious about rope flow, rotational training, or bringing more play into your movement practice, this episode is packed with practical insights and inspiration.Check out Ben's website here.Follow Ben on Instagram here.If you want to learn more about our ultimate 12-week 'Foot Restoration Program' click here and use code 'R2E10' for 10% off: Foot Restoration Program (Our most effective online foot health solution) Helpful Links & Discounts: ⬇️ Shop TFC tools and training (Use the code R2E10 to save 10%) Shop Vivobarefoot (Use code THEFOOTCOLLECTIVE to save up to 20%) Follow The Foot Collective: Instagram TikTok YouTube Facebook  A Special Thanks to our sponsor of this episode: Vivobarefoot Vivobarefoot ticks all the boxes when it comes to natural footwear: foot-shaped, fixed, flat, flexible, and designed to help you feel the ground. Their mission to promote human and planetary health aligns perfectly with ours at TFC. To celebrate the launch of the new Primus Flow - Vivo’s first barefoot running shoes - we have a special offer just for our audience. If you use the code THEFOOTCOLLECTIVE25 to save 25% on selected styles until May 15 2025. Don’t think Vivo’s are for you, our footwear finders has a tonne of trusted natural footwear brands from around the world with special discounts. SHOP HERE. DISCLAIMER: The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to your health, fitness, or treatment plans. Music: Just Stay - Strength To Last

In this episode of the Restore to Explore podcast, Nick sits down with Joshua J. Holland - a movement coach, health educator, and long-time barefoot advocate - for a powerful conversation on the role of feet in total-body wellness. Josh shares his journey from martial arts to professional basketball and ultimately to becoming a barefoot coach, unpacking the pivotal moments that shaped his understanding of natural movement. They dive into the impact of modern footwear on athletic performance, the importance of reconnecting with the ground, and how mastering the “hardware” (the body) and “software” (the mind) can transform your health. This episode was recorded just after The Speed Project, where Josh and a team of runners completed a 350-mile relay across the desert from LA to Vegas in just over 51 hours all while wearing barefoot shoes. This episode is a reminder that transitioning to barefoot running takes time and intention - it’s a process of learning how to Run Slow, move mindfully, and rebuild a foundation from the ground up. Follow Joshua on Instagram here.   If you want to learn more about our ultimate 12-week 'Foot Restoration Program' click here and use code 'R2E10' for 10% off: Foot Restoration Program (Our most effective online foot health solution) Helpful Links & Discounts: ⬇️ Shop TFC tools and training (Use the code R2E10 to save 10%) Shop Vivobarefoot (Use code THEFOOTCOLLECTIVE to save up to 20%) Follow The Foot Collective: Instagram TikTok YouTube Facebook  A Special Thanks to our sponsor of this episode: Vivobarefoot Vivobarefoot ticks all the boxes when it comes to natural footwear: foot-shaped, fixed, flat, flexible, and designed to help you feel the ground. Their mission to promote human and planetary health aligns perfectly with ours at TFC. To celebrate the launch of the new Primus Flow - Vivo’s first barefoot running shoes - we have a special offer just for our audience. If you use the code THEFOOTCOLLECTIVE25 to save 25% on selected styles until May 15 2025. Don’t think Vivo’s are for you, our footwear finders has a tonne of trusted natural footwear brands from around the world with special discounts. SHOP HERE. DISCLAIMER: The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to your health, fitness, or treatment plans. Music: Just Stay - Strength To Last

In this episode, Mac is joined by Charlie Kirby, a passionate coach and member of our TFC community, whose journey from chronic foot pain to barefoot freedom is both powerful and deeply personal. Charlie opens up about his early days playing football. Charlie dreamed of a career in the sport, when foot pain began to creep in around the age of 10—and how it slowly took a toll on his performance, confidence, and ultimately, his career. By 17, he had to give up the game he loved. But his story didn’t end there. Through grounding, switching to barefoot shoes, and reconnecting with the natural function of his feet, Charlie found not just relief—but a whole new mission: to help others, especially young athletes, avoid the same path of pain and dysfunction. Together they explore the overlooked role of foot health in athletic performance, the silent epidemic of foot pain in football, and how making foot training fun might be the key to a much-needed cultural shift in coaching and youth development. Whether you’re an athlete, coach, parent, or just someone dealing with foot pain, this one’s packed with powerful, practical insights, and a lot of heart. Follow Charlie on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/thatbarefootballer/  If you want to learn more about our ultimate 12-week 'Foot Restoration Program' click here and use code 'R2E10' for 10% off: Foot Restoration Program (Our most effective online foot health solution) Helpful Links & Discounts: ⬇️ Shop TFC tools and training (Use the code R2E10 to save 10%) Shop Vivobarefoot (Use code THEFOOTCOLLECTIVE to save up to 20%) Follow Charlie on Instagram here. Follow The Foot Collective: Instagram TikTok YouTube Facebook  A Special Thanks to our sponsor of this episode: Vivobarefoot Vivobarefoot ticks all the boxes when it comes to natural footwear: foot-shaped, fixed, flat, flexible, and designed to help you feel the ground. Their mission to promote human and planetary health aligns perfectly with ours at TFC. To celebrate the launch of the new Primus Flow - Vivo’s first barefoot running shoes - we have a special offer just for our audience. If you use the code THEFOOTCOLLECTIVE25 to save 25% on selected styles until May 15 2025. Don’t think Vivo’s are for you, our footwear finders has a tonne of trusted natural footwear brands from around the world with special discounts. SHOP HERE. DISCLAIMER: The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to your health, fitness, or treatment plans. Music: Just Stay - Strength To Last

Welcome back to the Restore To Explore Podcast. In this week’s episode, our founder Nick is joined by Lawrence van Lingen - a movement specialist, sports chiropractor, and former High-Performance Manager for Red Bull South Africa. With over 20 years of experience working with Olympic champions, elite athletes, and everyday movers alike, Lawrence shares powerful insights into what the human body looks and feels like when it’s functioning at its absolute best. Drawing from his work with world-class triathletes, runners, cyclists, and athletes across nearly every discipline, Lawrence now blends movement, breath, bodywork, and lifestyle into a deeply integrated approach to health — one that places nervous system health and fascial integration at the core. Together, Nick and Lawrence explore the shifting landscape of modern healthcare, the importance of authenticity and community, and how reclaiming your health begins with personal responsibility. From the role of pain as a teacher to the power of play and presence, this conversation is packed with wisdom that applies to everyone - not just athletes - who want to move and feel better for life.  If you want to learn more about our ultimate 12-week 'Foot Restoration Program' click here and use code 'R2E10' for 10% off: Foot Restoration Program (Our most effective online foot health solution) Helpful Links & Discounts: ⬇️ Shop TFC tools and training (Use the code R2E10 to save 10%) Shop Vivobarefoot (Use code THEFOOTCOLLECTIVE to save up to 20%)Check Lawrences website here. Follow Lawrence on Instagram here. Follow Lawrence on YouTube here. Follow The Foot Collective: Instagram TikTok YouTube Facebook  A Special Thanks to our sponsor of this episode: Vivobarefoot Vivobarefoot ticks all the boxes when it comes to natural footwear: foot-shaped, fixed, flat, flexible, and designed to help you feel the ground. Their mission to promote human and planetary health aligns perfectly with ours at TFC. Ready to experience that same foot freedom? Head to Vivobarefoot.com and use code THEFOOTCOLLECTIVE for up to 20% off your next pair. Your feet—and the planet—will thank you. DISCLAIMER: The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to your health, fitness, or treatment plans. Music: Just Stay - Strength To Last

Discover the essential role of balance in movement and longevity. Learn about the staggering statistics on fall-related injuries in older adults and how balance training can enhance foot health. The hosts dive into practical tips for incorporating balance exercises into daily life, focusing on sensory systems, mindful breathing, and progressive training methods. Whether you're young or old, cultivating balance can boost confidence and bolster resilience. Don't miss this enlightening discussion on how balance is fundamental to a healthy lifestyle!

In this conversation, Michael Drach, a sports performance specialist, shares his journey in the field of speed and agility training. He discusses the significance of foot health in athletic performance, particularly the role of the big toe and the impact of footwear on movement efficiency. Drach emphasizes the importance of barefoot training and how it can enhance athletic performance, while also addressing the common misconceptions surrounding footwear and its effects on the body. In this conversation, Michael Drach and Nick discuss the significant impact of footwear on athletic performance, emphasizing the benefits of barefoot training and the importance of proper footwear design. They explore the shift towards smaller, decentralized footwear brands and the future of footwear distribution, suggesting that athletes should acquire shoes from knowledgeable sources. The discussion also highlights the critical role of ankle dorsiflexion in athletic performance, the challenges faced by multi-sport athletes, and the importance of screening and assessing athletes to optimize their training. Finally, they delve into the fascinating role of the nervous system in movement and performance, underscoring the need for a holistic approach to athletic training.Check out Michael Drach's website here:  Follow Michael Drach on Instagram here: Helpful Links & Discounts: ⬇️ Shop TFC tools and training (Use the code R2E10 to save 10%) Shop Vivobarefoot (Use code THEFOOTCOLLECTIVE save up to 20%) Foot Restoration Program (Our most effective online foot health solution) Follow The Foot Collective: Instagram TikTok YouTube Facebook  A Special Thanks to Our Sponsor of this episode: Vivobarefoot Vivobarefoot ticks all the boxes when it comes to natural footwear: foot-shaped, fixed, flat, flexible, and designed to help you feel the ground. Their mission to promote human and planetary health aligns perfectly with ours at TFC. Ready to experience that same foot freedom? Head to Vivobarefoot.com and use code THEFOOTCOLLECTIVE for up to 20% off your next pair. Your feet—and the planet—will thank you. DISCLAIMER: The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to your health, fitness, or treatment plans. Music: Just Stay - Strength To LastChapters  00:00 Michael Drach's Journey in Sports Performance07:42 The Importance of Foot Health in Athletic Performance14:01 Understanding the Big Toe's Role in Movement24:08 The Impact of Footwear on Athletic Performance33:11 The Impact of Footwear on Performance35:05 The Shift Towards Smaller Footwear Brands36:52 The Benefits of Barefoot Training39:01The Future of Footwear Distribution40:09 Understanding Ankle Dorsiflexion and Its Importance45:16 The Multi-Sport Athlete Dilemma50:22 Screening and Assessing Athletes55:30 The Role of the Nervous System in Performance

In this special in-person episode of the Restore to Explore podcast, Jim sits down with Brian Beckstead, co-founder of Altra Running, during his recent visit from the U.S. to the TFC Hub. Altra has become a leader in the natural footwear and running space, known for its unique FootShape toe box and zero-drop platform—designed to promote natural running biomechanics. Brian shares the inspiring story of how Altra started, the mission behind its innovative design, and where the brand is headed today. He also opens up about his personal journey with chronic back pain and how transitioning to a zero-drop design helped improve his gait cycle and overall movement. This episode dives deep into how Altra bridges the gap between conventional and fully natural footwear, the non-negotiables in their design philosophy, and the company’s ongoing mission to empower runners with shoes that let them move the way they were born to. Check out Altra’s website here:  Follow on Altra on Instagram here: Follow Altra on YouTube here:  Helpful Links & Discounts: ⬇️ Shop TFC tools and training (Use the code R2E10 to save 10%) Shop Vivobarefoot (Use code THEFOOTCOLLECTIVE save up to 20%) Foot Restoration Program (Our most effective online foot health solution)   Follow The Foot Collective: Instagram TikTok YouTube Facebook  A Special Thanks to Our Sponsor of this episode: Vivobarefoot Vivobarefoot ticks all the boxes when it comes to natural footwear: foot-shaped, fixed, flat, flexible, and designed to help you feel the ground. Their mission to promote human and planetary health aligns perfectly with ours at TFC. Ready to experience that same foot freedom? Head to Vivobarefoot.com and use code THEFOOTCOLLECTIVE for up to 20% off your next pair. Your feet—and the planet—will thank you. DISCLAIMER: The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to your health, fitness, or treatment plans. Music: Just Stay - Strength To Last Chapters: 00:00 Episode Snippet 01:26 Intro 01:41 Vivo Advertisment 03:33 Brian Beckstead Interview 55:33 Outro