Activate Your Practice Podcast

What happens when a doctor becomes the patient? Dr. Cindy Howard, a survivor of Hodgkin's lymphoma, takes us through her remarkable journey from self-diagnosis to complete recovery, offering a master class in integrating conventional and functional medicine approaches along the way.Ten years ago, Dr. Howard woke up with a golf ball-sized lymph node in her neck. Drawing on her medical expertise, she diagnosed herself with Hodgkin's lymphoma and made the critical decision to pursue both chemotherapy and functional medicine treatments simultaneously. "If I don't fix the terrain that cancer grew in, what makes me think I won't wind up there again?" she explains, articulating a philosophy that guided her through recovery and continues to inform her approach to health.Throughout her six-month chemotherapy treatment, Dr. Howard supplemented with high-dose IV vitamin C and approximately 150 different nutritional supplements while maintaining a pristine diet of organic, whole foods. Despite facing resistance from the medical establishment—including being denied access to a less toxic chemotherapy protocol—she advocated fiercely for her health, refusing recommended radiation therapy after completing chemotherapy. Today, she remains cancer-free while managing the side effects of treatment, including reduced lung capacity.Dr. Howard's personal experience has deeply informed her professional work with patients facing various health challenges. She shares practical insights on concussion treatment, emphasizing anti-inflammatory supplements like omega fatty acids, Boswellia, and magnesium threonate. For diabetes management, she recommends berberine HCl, chromium, and cinnamon as natural alternatives to pharmaceuticals. Her passionate approach to women's health stems from her belief that symptoms like menstrual cramps and menopausal discomfort are "common but not normal" and can be effectively addressed.Ready to take control of your health journey? Listen now to discover how one doctor's personal battle with cancer transformed her approach to medicine and might just change your perspective on healing too.Support the show

What does the future of global chiropractic look like? Meet Dr. Brad Beira, the incoming Secretary General of the World Federation of Chiropractic, whose remarkable journey from South African chiropractor to international leader offers invaluable insights for practitioners everywhere.With disarming honesty, Dr. Beira reveals how his early fascination with the nervous system and diagnostics led him to become South Africa's first registered chiropractic student in 1989—coincidentally the same year the WFC was formed. His career evolution from private practice to corporate stress management speaker, then to business executive and legal expert, has uniquely prepared him for guiding chiropractic's global future.Dr. Beira's vision centers on expanding access—both for patients to chiropractors and for chiropractors to safe markets. "We're our own best kept secret," he admits, emphasizing how research and clear communication are essential for demonstrating chiropractic's effectiveness. He speaks passionately about physical literacy and maintaining mobility across all life stages, positioning chiropractors as vital healthcare partners in an increasingly sedentary world.For practitioners feeling isolated in their clinics, Dr. Beira offers practical wisdom: find mentors, seek business management support, and never stop learning. His candid assessment that "practice is hard" and "practice is lonely" resonates with clinicians everywhere, while his call for greater community engagement addresses the concerning trend of younger chiropractors disconnecting from professional associations.Whether you're a seasoned practitioner, new graduate, or chiropractic student, Dr. Beira's passionate call to action will inspire you to connect more deeply with colleagues and communicate your value more effectively to patients and other healthcare professionals. His leadership promises a new chapter for chiropractic that honors its roots while embracing innovative approaches to global healthcare challenges.Subscribe now to hear more conversations with chiropractic thought leaders who are shaping the future of our profession.Support the show

A decade of transformation in global chiropractic comes to light as Dr. Richard Brown, retiring Secretary General of the World Federation of Chiropractic, shares his remarkable journey with Dr. Arlan Fuhr. Their conversation reveals how chiropractic has evolved from a peripheral profession to an evidence-supported healthcare approach recognized worldwide.Brown's proudest achievement—the "Be Epic" campaign—epitomizes his vision for chiropractic: Evidence-based, People-centered, Interprofessional, and Collaborative. This simple framework resonated globally, unifying diverse stakeholders from national associations to educational institutions under a common philosophy. Throughout challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic, this foundation proved invaluable as the WFC supported practitioners across 96 countries navigating unprecedented healthcare disruptions.The healthcare landscape has shifted dramatically during Brown's tenure, with international guidelines increasingly recommending non-pharmaceutical, non-surgical interventions—precisely what chiropractors deliver. This evidence-based evolution has positioned the profession favorably, but Brown emphasizes two critical frontiers: demonstrating cost-effectiveness to policymakers and embracing the growing need for geriatric care. With aging populations worldwide fearing mobility loss and social isolation, chiropractors hold a unique opportunity to maintain seniors' independence and quality of life.As Brown transitions to new roles including judicial work as an appointed magistrate and continued practice in an integrated medical setting, he leaves the profession with both wisdom and optimism. His leadership philosophy—humanity, humility, and integrity—offers guidance to future leaders, while his parting message resonates with possibility: "The best is yet to come." Through continued research investment and healthcare integration, chiropractic stands poised for its most impactful era yet.Support the show

The connection between your spine and brain is far more profound than conventional medicine has recognized. In this eye-opening conversation, Dr. Heidi Haavik, Director of Research at New Zealand College of Chiropractic, shares revolutionary findings from 24 years of neuroscience research that completely transform our understanding of how chiropractic care works.Forget what you thought you knew about chiropractic. Those old theories about "relieving pressure from pinched nerves" have given way to a sophisticated brain-centered model. Dr. Haavik's research team has consistently demonstrated that spinal adjustments directly change brain function, regardless of where along the spine the adjustment occurs. "We had to really rethink the entire model," she explains, "because it doesn't seem to be the nerve roots, but we're directly changing the brain when we're adjusting subluxated segments."The mechanism? High-velocity, low-amplitude thrusts (whether from Activator instruments or manual techniques) stretch deep spinal muscles that have become atrophied around dysfunctional segments. These muscles play a crucial role in proprioception - your brain's awareness of body position. When they're not communicating properly, your brain operates on an incomplete "story" about what's happening in your body, potentially leading to countless downstream effects.This explains why chiropractic benefits extend far beyond pain relief. Recent clinical trials reveal improvements in fatigue, anxiety, depression, and even how the brain processes sensory information like sound and visual input. Perhaps most remarkable are multiple studies showing significant rehabilitation benefits for chronic stroke survivors - an ironic development for a profession once wrongly accused of causing strokes.For those considering chiropractic care, Dr. Haavik recommends at least three months of consistent visits. "Some of the neuroplastic brain changes don't necessarily show up straight away," she notes. "Some change immediately, but some you only see at about 12 weeks." Looking ahead, she's excited about emerging technologies that will make neurological assessment more accessible in chiropractic offices, along with big data initiatives that will better identify which populations benefit most from care.Want to understand how your spine influences your brain and overall health? This conversation illuminates the science behind what chiropractors have observed clinically for decades - that spinal care influences far more than just back pain.Support the show

When most doctors hear "NCMIC," they immediately think malpractice insurance—but as President David Siebert reveals, that's just scratching the surface. Founded in 1946 by chiropractors for chiropractors, NCMIC has evolved into a comprehensive resource offering everything from business insurance to financial services tailored specifically for the profession.What distinguishes NCMIC from competitors? Their impressive 300+ years of collective claims experience makes a profound difference when defending chiropractors. As a mutual company answering to policyholders rather than shareholders, NCMIC takes a long-term approach that has allowed them to return over $170 million in dividends to doctors over 25 consecutive years. Their board, predominantly comprised of chiropractors, ensures decisions always prioritize the profession's best interests.For doctors facing potential claims, NCMIC offers critical guidance through what can be an emotionally challenging process. Their "consent to settle" policy guarantees doctors maintain control over their professional reputation, as no case settles without the doctor's written permission. Siebert shares how NCMIC will invest significantly in legal defense when a doctor wants their day in court, even when settlement might be less expensive—because protecting a chiropractor's reputation matters more than saving money.Beyond malpractice coverage, NCMIC offers business insurance, specialized long-term disability policies that understand chiropractors' unique needs, and personal lines including home and auto insurance. Their financial arm provides transparent merchant processing without long-term contracts, equipment loans, business credit cards, and premium financing options. They've become a true one-stop solution for chiropractic practice needs.The company's commitment extends to supporting over 200 chiropractic events annually, providing campus resources, risk management training, and their "Starting Into Practice" program. The NCMIC Foundation has invested more than $10 million in research that's opening doors for chiropractors in integrated healthcare settings. With growing public interest in preventative care post-pandemic, Siebert sees a bright future ahead for the profession.Discover how NCMIC can help protect and grow your practice with solutions designed specifically for chiropractors. Call today to learn more about their comprehensive services beyond malpractice insurance.Support the show

Every breath has significance when you're the son of a chiropractor – especially your first one. Dr. Mark Sanna, CEO of Breakthrough Coaching, opens this compelling conversation by sharing how a chiropractic adjustment from his father literally gave him his first breath as a "blue baby" born without oxygen. This profound beginning shaped his lifelong connection to a profession that he now helps others master through his coaching enterprise.The heart of successful chiropractic practice, Sanna reveals, lies not in clinical skills alone but in the foundational business principles rarely taught in school. "It's not how much you make, it's how much you keep," he emphasizes, sharing how his 30-year discipline of consistently investing 10% of his earnings has created financial freedom through the magic of compounding interest. This wisdom proves especially valuable for new practitioners who possess time – the most powerful wealth-building asset.Sanna addresses the challenging reality of insurance reimbursements frozen at 20-year-old rates despite rising delivery costs. He advocates for a balanced approach incorporating cash services, where practitioners effectively communicate the value of investing in health. "Your job is to make their health a priority," he explains, highlighting how skilled practitioners help patients recognize that discretionary spending on wellbeing delivers returns no other purchase can match.The conversation shifts to sustainability practices for busy practitioners, with Sanna offering a counterintuitive insight: "You're either expanding or contracting." He explains that regular environmental changes – whether weekend retreats or seasonal homes – provide the mental expansion necessary to prevent burnout and maintain practice vitality. This perspective challenges the notion that constant presence equals greater success.Breakthrough Coaching distinguishes itself through integrity, systems-based management, and consultants who've personally implemented these principles. Sanna particularly emphasizes succession planning – helping practitioners create actual value in their practices that translates to retirement security while ensuring continued patient care. For listeners contemplating practice growth or transition, this discussion offers both strategic wisdom and practical next steps toward building a sustainable chiropractic legacy.Ready to transform your practice with proven systems? Connect with Dr. Sanna at mybreakthrough.com or call 800-723-8423 to discover how coaching can help you achieve your practice goals faster and with greater certainty.Support the show

Discover the inspiring journey of Dr. Bob Martin, whose early struggles with asthma and immune issues in Davenport, Iowa, led him to a life-changing encounter with chiropractic care. We explore how a seemingly simple adjustment transformed his health, igniting a passion for chiropractic that would shape his career. Dr. Martin's story highlights the profound impact this approach had on his own life, setting the foundation for his future as a pioneering radio host and advocate for holistic health. His tale is not just about personal healing but about the power of perseverance in the face of skepticism.Join us for an engaging conversation about Dr. Martin's transition from a dedicated chiropractor to a celebrated syndicated radio show host with iHeartMedia. Despite facing resistance in the 1970s due to his lack of an MD, Dr. Martin's unwavering commitment to integrating nutrition and lifestyle medicine into his practice expanded his reach. We delve into the influence of figures like Chester Wilk and the strategies Dr. Martin used to confront critics and champion chiropractic care. As listeners, you'll gain valuable insights and inspiration from his dedication to advancing the field and his unwavering belief in the benefits of holistic health.Support the show

Discover the transformative changes in chiropractic pre-licensure exams with Dr. Norman Ouzts, CEO of the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners (NBCE). Join us as Dr. Ouzts unveils how computer-based testing has been expanded to offer students greater flexibility, allowing exams to be taken over nine months of the year. Additionally, we discuss the innovative shift of Part 4 exams to a year-round schedule in Greeley, Colorado, creating a fully immersive patient experience. The conversation also highlights the critical role of stakeholders in navigating these changes and ensuring a seamless transition.We also uncover the strategic move to centralize exam testing as a means of cost management and sustainability, with plans for a new testing center in Greeley set for 2026. This centralization is designed to stabilize exam fees and enhance grading consistency with full-time examiners. Dr. Ouzts shares how the NBCE is reinvesting in the chiropractic community through scholarship support and the invaluable practice analysis data available for legislators and professional associations. Prepare for insights from the upcoming 2025 practice analysis survey, as we explore the NBCE’s forward-thinking approach to adapting within the evolving landscape of chiropractic education.Support the show

Ever wondered how an athlete's passion can shape the future of healthcare? Dr. John Scaringe, President of Southern California University, joins us to share his compelling journey from the world of sports to becoming a leader in chiropractic care. With roots dating back to 1911, SCU has transformed from a chiropractic college into a trailblazer in multidisciplinary healthcare education. Dr. Scaringe discusses the pivotal role of integrative, whole health approaches in healthcare, as well as his efforts to seamlessly incorporate chiropractic care into the Veterans Administration. This conversation sheds light on the evolution of patient-centered care and its alignment with national healthcare initiatives.Join us as we uncover the intricacies of building innovative health programs, including the launch of high-cost educational ventures like physician assistant programs. Dr. Scaringe provides insights into the challenges of navigating accreditation processes and fostering a unified vision among faculty and alumni. We also explore how SCU is cultivating a collaborative and respectful environment by integrating diverse health professions. Discover how various entities, from private clinics to corporations, are adopting whole health practices to achieve healthier and more satisfied communities. This episode is an enlightening exploration of the fusion between conventional and complementary medicine for holistic patient care.Support the show

Questions for Dr. James email drquinnjames@att.netDiscover the driving force behind a transformative legislative effort as we welcome Dr. Quinn James, a politically active chiropractor from St. Louis, Missouri, who's championing the modernization of Medicare for chiropractic care. As the legislative chairman for the American Chiropractic Association, Dr. James provides an insider's perspective on the Medicare Chiropractic Modernization Act (HR 1610 and Senate Bill 799), which aims to break down outdated barriers from a 1972 statute. With bipartisan support, this initiative promises to expand patient access and streamline care by reducing redundant provider visits. Dr. James shares his journey and passion for reform, making this a must-listen for anyone invested in healthcare progress.Our conversation doesn't stop at policy details. We explore the tactical steps necessary to garner Congressional support, spotlighting the pivotal role of Jason Smith, Chairman of the Ways and Means Committee. With 179 House co-sponsors and 14 Senate supporters, the momentum is undeniable. Hear Dr. James's appreciation for his colleagues' collaboration and commitment to this urgent cause, as well as a personal story that brings the legislation's importance into sharp relief. Tune in to understand how you can contribute to this crucial movement, ensuring enhanced chiropractic care under Medicare nationwide.Support the show