Restore To Explore

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 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

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

This week on Restore to Explore, we're honoring the life and legacy of Robert Fliri—a true pioneer in the barefoot movement and the creator of Vibram FiveFingers. Robert’s vision changed the way people think about footwear, bringing them closer to nature with every step. Tragically, Robert passed away last week while descending the Punta d'Oberettes ice wall in the Italian Alps. He was not just a designer but a passionate and experienced mountaineer, deeply connected to the natural world he sought to bring people back to, through his work. As a tribute, we're re-releasing a bite-sized episode from my conversation with Robert—one that captures his passion, innovation, and philosophy on movement. In this snippet Robert responds to the backlash targeted towards his designs in the early-stages, how far the barefoot movement has come since and what he believes it will take for foot health to become a priority in our modern culture. This would tragically prove to be his final public interview. His impact on the world of footwear and natural movement will live on through his designs and the countless people he has inspired. Let’s take a moment to reflect on his incredible legacy.You can listen to the full conversation that was released last season 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 interviews Oliver Brossmann, founder of Prevolve Footwear. Oliver shares his journey from being a soccer player with knee pain to creating custom 3D printed cleats. He discusses the challenges faced in the development process, the evolution of his product, and the significant impact that proper footwear can have on athletic performance and foot health. In this conversation, Oliver and Nick discuss the evolution of footwear, focusing on the importance of natural shoes and the innovative solutions being developed to enhance foot health. They explore the shift in consumer awareness towards minimalist footwear, the impact of 3D printing on shoe design, and the potential for athletes to influence the industry by prioritizing foot function over brand loyalty. The discussion emphasizes the need for customization in footwear and the role of community feedback in driving innovation. 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 (save 50% in February 2025) Checkout the Prevolve Footwear website here Follow Prevolve on Instagram here Follow Prevolve 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 Chapters00:00The Genesis of Prevolve Footwear06:03Overcoming Challenges in 3D Printing11:59The Evolution of Custom Footwear18:03The Impact of Footwear on Athletic Performance22:43Innovative Footwear Solutions28:00The Shift Towards Natural Footwear31:57The Future of Footwear Industry38:55Custom Footwear Experience46:07Feedback and Community Engagement

In this conversation, Jim Dooner interviews Ali and Sohail, the creators of Movemate, a product designed to promote movement in sedentary environments. They discuss the origins of Movemate, which stemmed from Ali's thesis project, and how personal experiences with injury and sedentary lifestyles led to the development of this innovative tool. The conversation explores the challenges of integrating movement into office culture, the social perceptions surrounding physical activity, and the scientific benefits of low-intensity movement. The discussion emphasizes the importance of personal health and the need for tools that facilitate movement in everyday life. In this conversation, Ali and Jim discuss the significant impacts of sedentary lifestyles on health, emphasizing the importance of incorporating movement into daily routines. They explore how even small amounts of movement can lead to substantial health benefits, including improved blood flow, reduced stiffness, and enhanced mental well-being. The discussion also highlights user feedback on the transformative effects of their product, Movemate, and the ongoing research aimed at understanding the physiological benefits of active standing versus passive standing.  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 (save 50% in February 2025) Checkout Movemate's website here Follow Movemate on Instagram here Follow Movemate 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 Chapters00:00Introduction to MoveMate and Its Origins06:00Personal Experiences and the Impact of Movement11:53Office Culture and Movement Integration18:03The Science Behind Movement and Its Benefits28:51The Cost of Sedentary Lifestyles34:53The Importance of Movement Snacks44:30Transformative Feedback from Users52:27Ongoing Research and Future Insights

In this powerful episode, we sit down with Mick Marshall, an endurance athlete whose life changed forever after a devastating workplace accident. Once an ultramarathon runner, Mick suffered severe leg injuries that required multiple surgeries and left him having to learn to walk again—three times. He opens up about his battle with chronic pain, PTSD, and the struggle of rebuilding his identity after losing what once defined him. But Mick’s story is not one of defeat—it's one of resilience, adaptation, and pure grit. From setting a world record for the fastest marathon on crutches to forming the Beyond Endurance team and advocating for adaptive athletes, Mick shares how he turned unimaginable hardship into a mission to inspire others.Mick’s journey is a raw, honest, and inspiring testament to the human spirit. Whether you're an athlete, facing your own challenges, or just need a dose of motivation—this episode is a must-listen.  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 (save 50% in February 2025) Follow Mick on Instagram here Follow Mick on Facebook 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 LastChapters: 0:00 – The Accident That Changed Everything 8:50 – From Footy to Ultra Running 17:00 – The Aftermath: Learning to Walk Again 24:30 – Complex Regional Pain Syndrome & Chronic Pain Battles 32:00 – The Turning Point: Rebuilding Through Movement 40:10 – Running a Half Marathon on Crutches 46:00 – Breaking a World Record 52:30 – The Beyond Endurance Team & Adaptive Athletics 1:00:00 – The Mental Game & Overcoming Setbacks 1:10:30 – What’s Next: The Road to Brisbane 2032