Today, we have a truly remarkable guest: Matthew Mattera—a retired Naval officer, inspirational writer, and motivational speaker. Matthew's life has been profoundly shaped by personal tragedy; he has lost six family members to suicide, including his father and his 15-year-old daughter, Elizabeth.

In his memoir, Hope: My Journey of Love, Loss, and Faith, Matthew provides a raw and unflinching perspective on suicide and its ripple effects.

Together with his wife, Erica, Matthew established the Elizabeth Mattera Foundation in honor of their late daughter. The foundation's mission is to prevent suicide through training and workshops, delivering hope, saving lives, and ending suicide.

In this episode, Matthew shares his journey of love, loss, and faith, and discusses how individuals can curate their 'informational diet' to foster a more positive and hopeful mindset. He also explores the role of faith in navigating personal tragedies and his mission to help others.

Join us for an inspiring and thought-provoking conversation that underscores the importance of mental health advocacy and the power of hope.

We are two sports chiropractors, seeking knowledge from some of the best resources in the world of health. From our perspective, health is more than just “Crackin Backs” but a deep dive into physical, mental, and nutritional well-being philosophies.

Join us as we talk to some of the greatest minds and discover some of the most incredible gems you can use to maintain a higher level of health. Crackin Backs Podcast

In this episode of the Crackin' Backs podcast, we are honored to host Dr. Courtney Conley, a renowned expert in foot and gait mechanics. As the founder of Gait Happens, Dr. Conley has dedicated over 25 years to helping individuals reclaim optimal foot function. She holds a Doctorate in Chiropractic Medicine and dual Bachelor's degrees in Kinesiology and Human Biology. Her extensive clinical experience includes working with professional athletes from teams such as the Phoenix Suns, New York Yankees, Cleveland Browns, New York Giants, and San Francisco 49ers.

In this insightful conversation, Dr. Conley delves into the critical role of foot health in overall well-being and longevity. She discusses how various footwear choices can significantly alter gait biomechanics, potentially leading to musculoskeletal issues. With the plethora of footwear options available today—from minimalist shoes to highly cushioned models—Dr. Conley offers guidance on selecting footwear that promotes optimal gait and musculoskeletal health.

The discussion also explores historical changes in footwear design and their influence on modern foot ailments, providing lessons from past practices to inform current choices. Dr. Conley shares her expertise on identifying suitable running shoes amidst ever-changing information and addresses the prevalence of Achilles injuries, particularly in relation to cleats and ballet shoes, which can be detrimental to foot mechanics.

Additionally, Dr. Conley examines the practices of taping ankles and feet, known as spatting, and offers practical advice on strengthening exercises for the feet and ankles that listeners can implement immediately. She provides her perspective on the growing trend of barefoot walking, weighing its potential benefits against the risks of injuries and infections. Drawing from various cultural practices, she offers insights into optimal foot function and health.

The conversation also touches on the use of toe spacers as a tool for addressing foot alignment issues. Dr. Conley evaluates their effectiveness and discusses whether they are a valuable tool or merely a passing trend.

For more information on Dr. Courtney Conley and her work, visit Gait Happens. To schedule a consultation or learn more about her clinical practice, contact Total Health Solutions in Lakewood, Colorado.

Tune in to this episode to gain a comprehensive understanding of foot health and its profound impact on your overall well-being.

We are two sports chiropractors, seeking knowledge from some of the best resources in the world of health. From our perspective, health is more than just “Crackin Backs” but a deep dive into physical, mental, and nutritional well-being philosophies.

Join us as we talk to some of the greatest minds and discover some of the most incredible gems you can use to maintain a higher level of health. Crackin Backs Podcast

Guardian Grains: Order Here

Erin Brockovich is back, and she’s bringing her unyielding passion for justice to tackle some of the most urgent issues facing our environment today. Known for her relentless advocacy and groundbreaking work exposing water contamination in Hinkley, California, Erin has proven time and again that one person can make a change.

In this episode, Erin shares her insights on whether the government is finally listening to the voices demanding clean water and highlights powerful grassroots strategies from her book, Superman’s Not Coming. Discover how communities across the country are taking matters into their own hands to combat water contamination and what you can do to replicate their success.

We also discuss her latest project, the critically acclaimed documentary Unearth, which delves into the devastating impacts of mining on Alaska’s Bristol Bay. Erin draws striking parallels between these battles and her previous advocacy work, offering lessons on resilience, community action, and the power of persistence.

With unregulated contaminants like PFAS invading our water supply, Erin provides actionable advice for protecting your health at home and on the go, from choosing the right water filters to smart travel tips. Plus, she shares unexpected insights into the Wizard of Oz, revealing what this classic tale can teach us about self-reliance and believing in your ability to create change.

Don’t miss this inspiring and informative conversation. Learn more about Erin Brockovich’s work, access her resources, and join the movement for cleaner water by visiting her official website. Get your copy of Superman’s Not Coming and watch Unearth to understand the stakes and solutions behind today’s water crisis. It’s time to take action—because Superman isn’t coming, but you can be the hero we need.

We are two sports chiropractors, seeking knowledge from some of the best resources in the world of health. From our perspective, health is more than just “Crackin Backs” but a deep dive into physical, mental, and nutritional well-being philosophies.

Join us as we talk to some of the greatest minds and discover some of the most incredible gems you can use to maintain a higher level of health. Crackin Backs Podcast

Start your journey to a healthier, happier you with 3 transformative tips from the world’s leading experts in nutrition, mental wellness, and physical health. These actionable insights are designed to spark change, inspire growth, and help you make small, impactful shifts in your daily routine.

By incorporating these tips, you’ll set the stage for lasting improvements in your energy, focus, and overall well-being. Whether you're looking to fine-tune your diet, boost your mental clarity, or enhance your fitness, this podcast episode has the tools to help you thrive.

Don’t wait—take the first step toward a better you today!

Thanks to Dr. Dana Sinclair, Dr. Jonny Bowden, and Dr. Gary Gray for sending in clips.

We are two sports chiropractors, seeking knowledge from some of the best resources in the world of health. From our perspective, health is more than just “Crackin Backs” but a deep dive into physical, mental, and nutritional well-being philosophies.

Join us as we talk to some of the greatest minds and discover some of the most incredible gems you can use to maintain a higher level of health. Crackin Backs Podcast

Our Crackin' Backs Family would like to wish you a merry Christmas.

We would also like to thank everyone on the team: Dr. Terry Weyman, Dr. Spencer Baron, Heather LeVine, and David Farquharson.

From all of us to all of you, Have a glorious holiday season and thank you for you continued support!

We have a strong line up to start the year, we can't wait.

We are two sports chiropractors, seeking knowledge from some of the best resources in the world of health. From our perspective, health is more than just “Crackin Backs” but a deep dive into physical, mental, and nutritional well-being philosophies.

Join us as we talk to some of the greatest minds and discover some of the most incredible gems you can use to maintain a higher level of health. Crackin Backs Podcast

Guardian Grains: Order Here

In this episode of the Crackin’ Backs Podcast, we are thrilled to welcome Amanda Carlson-Phillips, a trailblazer in the world of human performance. With nearly 20 years of experience, Amanda leads the Performance Innovation team at EXOS, where she has been instrumental in developing cutting-edge strategies to optimize health, recovery, and performance for a diverse range of clients. From elite athletes and professional sports teams to military operators and forward-thinking organizations, Amanda’s expertise has set the gold standard in the field.

Amanda, a registered dietitian, holds a bachelor’s degree in nutritional sciences with a minor in chemistry from the University of Arizona and a master’s degree in sports nutrition and exercise physiology from Florida State University. Her work goes far beyond nutrition, as she is celebrated for integrating high-performance programs that address all aspects of health and wellness. Amanda speaks nationally about the importance of sustainable habits, recovery strategies, and the role of nutrition in achieving peak performance and overall health.

In this episode, we explore Amanda’s journey and groundbreaking insights, including:

• The early beliefs in performance nutrition that she has since debunked and how this evolution impacts her work today.
• The myths of biohacking and the sustainable habits she recommends for long-term success, even in demanding lifestyles.
• The often-overlooked aspects of recovery that can transform athletic and personal performance.
• How nutrition and lifestyle choices play a pivotal role in preventing burnout and maintaining both physical and mental health.
• Practical advice for the average person to elevate their fitness and health, starting with simple, actionable steps.
• Her perspective on wearable tech and health metrics, and which data points truly matter for improving performance.
• Predictions for the biggest lifestyle shifts in human performance over the next decade and how we can adapt.

Whether you’re an athlete, a health enthusiast, or someone looking to make meaningful changes in your life, this conversation with Amanda Carlson-Phillips is packed with invaluable advice and inspiration.

To learn more about Amanda and her groundbreaking work, visit EXOS. If you’re ready to work with the leader in human performance systems, explore EXOS’ services and programs today.

We are two sports chiropractors, seeking knowledge from some of the best resources in the world of health. From our perspective, health is more than just “Crackin Backs” but a deep dive into physical, mental, and nutritional well-being philosophies.

Join us as we talk to some of the greatest minds and discover some of the most incredible gems you can use to maintain a higher level of health. Crackin Backs Podcast

Guardian Grains: Order Here

In this eye-opening episode of the Crackin Backs Podcast, we welcome the renowned Dr. Bob Rakowski, an influential voice in holistic health and wellness. Dr. Rakowski’s extensive experience and groundbreaking insights into nutrition and lifestyle medicine provide listeners with practical advice to navigate today’s complex health landscape.

Lab-grown foods are becoming more mainstream, but with their rise comes heated debate over their safety and nutritional content. Dr. Rakowski shares his expert perspective on how these alternatives measure up against traditional, naturally grown foods. He also offers essential guidance for making informed choices at the grocery store to ensure optimal nutrition without emptying your wallet.

Amidst ongoing discussions surrounding vegan and carnivore diets, Dr. Rakowski sheds light on the true benefits and drawbacks of each. Is there a balanced diet that combines the strengths of both for sustained health? Find out as we explore diet myths and truths.

Holidays often lead to overindulgence, leaving many searching for effective recovery strategies. Dr. Radowski reveals his proven nutritional and lifestyle approaches for getting back on track. In a world rife with external stressors, from social media noise to global news, he explains how to filter out distractions and focus on personal well-being, offering daily habits to cultivate lasting peace and resilience.

As an expert in longevity, Dr. Rakowski emphasizes often-overlooked habits and exercises essential for maintaining strength and health as we age. Plus, discover how diet impacts mental stress and the vital nutrients that support emotional balance. He even shares unique protocols to reset the body’s stress response, equipping listeners with actionable steps to regain calm and stability at home.

Don’t miss this episode filled with insights that can transform your approach to health and nutrition.

We are two sports chiropractors, seeking knowledge from some of the best resources in the world of health. From our perspective, health is more than just “Crackin Backs” but a deep dive into physical, mental, and nutritional well-being philosophies.

Join us as we talk to some of the greatest minds and discover some of the most incredible gems you can use to maintain a higher level of health. Crackin Backs Podcast

Guardian Grains: Order Here

Crackin' Backs Coffee: Order Here

In this episode of the Crackin Backs Podcast, we explore the intersection of mental health and neuroscience with Dr. Michael Bagnell, a seasoned Functional Neurologist and Chiropractic Physician. With over 30 years of clinical experience, Dr. Bagnell specializes in brain-based healthcare, focusing on conditions such as anxiety, depression, and ADHD.

We discuss how functional neurology addresses neurological imbalances contributing to mental health disorders. Dr. Bagnell explains the roles of brainwave patterns, neuroplasticity, and neural network connectivity in emotional regulation and cognitive function. He also shares insights on the benefits and drawbacks of psychedelic substances like LSD, MDMA, psilocybin mushrooms, and ketamine in mental health treatment.

Dr. Bagnell emphasizes the importance of personalized treatment plans informed by neurological assessments, including brain mapping. He advocates for combining functional neurology interventions—such as vestibular therapy, eye movement therapy, and neurofeedback—with traditional approaches like psychotherapy and medication to enhance patient outcomes.

For more information on Dr. Bagnell's work, visit the Bagnell Brain Center's website.

Bagnell Brain Center

Additionally, explore "The Neuro Collective Podcast," co-hosted by Dr. Bagnell and May Bagnell, which delves into functional neurology, mindset coaching, and functional medicine.

The Neuro Collective Podcast

Join us for an enlightening conversation that bridges the gap between neuroscience and mental health, offering new perspectives on achieving emotional well-being.

We are two sports chiropractors, seeking knowledge from some of the best resources in the world of health. From our perspective, health is more than just “Crackin Backs” but a deep dive into physical, mental, and nutritional well-being philosophies.

Join us as we talk to some of the greatest minds and discover some of the most incredible gems you can use to maintain a higher level of health. Crackin Backs Podcast