Restore To Explore

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

In this episode of the Restore to Explore podcast, Mac Lyon speaks with Anya Jensen, the founder of Anya's Reviews and a prominent figure in the barefoot shoe movement. Anya shares her journey from experiencing chronic foot pain to becoming a leading advocate for natural footwear. The conversation covers the evolution of her blog, the challenges of running a retail store, and the inception of the Barefoot Shoe Expo, which has grown into a significant event in the industry. Anya emphasizes the importance of in-person experiences, community engagement, and education in promoting foot health and natural footwear. Looking ahead, she shares her excitement for the upcoming expo in Denver, which promises to be even bigger and better than before. In this conversation, Anya and Mac discuss the upcoming Barefoot Shoe Expo, highlighting the innovative workshop series, diverse footwear brands, and the growing acceptance of natural footwear. They emphasize the importance of consumer education regarding footwear choices and the balance between functionality and aesthetics in shoe design. The conversation also touches on the impact of fashion trends on footwear and the unique experience the expo offers to attendees. 🚨 BIG ANNOUNCEMENT ALERT! 🚨 After 10 years, thousands of people helped, and countless lessons learned, we’re unveiling: The Foot Restoration Program - Learn more here. Our most effective online foot health solution EVER—and the best part? YOU CAN GET IT FOR FREE. Click here to learn more about the Foot Restoration Program Special Launch Offer: To celebrate the launch, anyone who joins in February 2025 will have the opportunity to get their money back. Yep, you heard that right. 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 Anya on Instagram here Follow Anya on YouTube here Watch last years event hereGet tickets 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: 00:00:00 Podcast Teaser 00:00:48 Intro R2E 00:01:04 Vivobarefoot Offer 00:02:58 TFC Tour Updates 00:05:11 Anya & Mac 01:07:05 Outro & Helpful Links

Welcome to Season 4!  🎬 We’re kicking off the new season with a bang! In this episode, Jim Dooner (Physiotherapist | Head of TFC Training) and Tom Williams (Head Physiotherapist | TFC Pro Educator) are back to dive deep into a topic that’s at the core of everything we do at The Foot Collective: ‘What Is Natural Foot Function & How to Restore It’ In this jam-packed episode, they break down: What natural foot function really means The key factors that affect foot health How to identify and correct common dysfunctions Simple, actionable steps you can take today to start restoring your foundation But that’s not all… 🚨 BIG ANNOUNCEMENT ALERT! 🚨 After 10 years, thousands of people helped, and countless lessons learned, we’re unveiling: The Foot Restoration Program - Learn more here. Our most effective online foot health solution EVER—and the best part? YOU CAN GET IT FOR FREE. We’ve spent the past decade learning what works, what doesn’t, and what’s missing in foot health. People don’t need more quick fixes—they need a clear, structured path to restore natural foot function. This program is exactly that: A comprehensive, step-by-step system Focused on long-lasting pain relief Designed to help you move with freedom and confidence Click here to learn more about the Foot Restoration Program Special Launch Offer: To celebrate the launch, anyone who joins in February 2025 will have the opportunity to get their money back. Yep, you heard that right. Don’t miss this transformative episode and your chance to reclaim your foot health. 🎧 Tune in now and take the first step to restore, explore, and thrive! 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 Jim on Instagram here Follow Tom 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. 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

Introducing a new style of episode on the Restore To Explore Podcast: 'FOOTNOTES'. These shorter episodes, brought to you by Jim, Mac, Nick, and Tom, will delve into specific concepts and conditions to help educate you on common causes and rehab methods based on the latest research. 'FOOTNOTES' are concise, actionable insights taken from our original longer-form episodes, designed to enhance your understanding of foot health and empower you with the knowledge to take better care of your feet. To listen to the full original episode, please head to the link below. Check out our YouTube channel Here: Find A Health Professional Near You - TFC Pro Directory  TFC Helpful Links: Free Training Explorer Membership Free Ebook (The Guide To Foot Freedom) Shop TFC tools and training (Use the code R2E10 to save 10%) Become A TFC Athlete Natural Footwear Finder  Fountain - Earn money while you listen to our podcast Follow us: Instagram TikTok YouTube Facebook Music:Love Frequency - Roze Sound

In this episode of the Restore To Explore podcast, Jim talks with Tom Williams from Breath Performance Physio about the correlation between breath & foot function. Tom speaks on how to best practise breathing techniques that can be incorporated into your balance training. Visit Tom's Breath Performance Instagram Page Here: You can book an appointment with Tom in Brisbane at: The Health Collab Click to visit Tom Williams' Linktr.ee/breathperformance Follow Jim on Instagram Here: TFC Helpful Links: Free Training Explorer Membership Free Ebook (The Guide To Foot Freedom) Shop TFC tools and training (Use the code R2E10 to save 10%) Become A TFC Athlete TFC Pro Directory Natural Footwear Finder  Fountain - Earn money while you listen to our podcast Follow us: Instagram TikTok YouTube Facebook Music:Love Frequency - Roze SoundLost To The Siren - Makenna Susan