Dr. Trevor Marum DC brings a refreshingly unique perspective to the world of chiropractic. In this powerful episode, he sits down with host James Chester to share what it was like becoming a chiropractor later in life—after a career in fitness and elite-level training.

From professional athlete to principled adjuster, Dr. Marum’s story is all about transformation, responsibility, and staying true to chiropractic’s sacred principles. This episode explores patient responsibility, technique diversity, subluxation-centered care, and why every DC should be teaching.

HIGHLIGHTS

•            Dr. Marum didn’t discover chiropractic until his 30s—a Life West upper cervical adjustment changed everything.

•            He emphasizes the importance of patient responsibility and making the care process collaborative.

•            Trained in multiple techniques, he uses everything from upper cervical to extremity adjusting.

•            He runs a referral-only practice serving everyone from newborns to seniors.

•            His passion for movement and lifestyle shines through both inside and outside the clinic.

•            Advocates for ongoing patient education, community involvement, and lay lectures.

•            Inspired by mentors like Dan Bronstein, John Bergman, and Paul Reed.

ABOUT DR. TREVOR MARUM DC

Dr. Trevor Marum DC is a subluxation-centered chiropractor practicing in the Pacific Northwest. He blends upper cervical work with extremity techniques and neurological therapies to serve a diverse patient base—from newborns to seniors. Formerly a professional athlete and gym owner, he brings a deep reverence for movement, lifestyle, and innate healing.

DIVING INTO…

Staying True to Chiropractic Principles

Dr. Marum’s journey into chiropractic was sparked not by a miracle story, but by a deep physical awareness cultivated over years as an elite trainer and athlete. After one life-altering upper cervical adjustment, he knew chiropractic was his calling. He quickly realized that not all chiropractic schools honor the sacred trust or even teach about subluxation. He credits Life West with staying true to the philosophy.

The Power of Patient Responsibility

In Dr. Marum’s practice, healing is a shared process. He sets expectations clearly: patients have homework. Whether it’s education, lifestyle changes, or pantry overhauls, his approach helps patients become active participants in their care. This patient ownership is crucial, especially when paired with community-building activities like in-house lectures and Q&A events.

Technique Matters: Tools for Every Body

From knee-chest to muscle activation, Dr. Marum believes in mastering a variety of techniques. Why? Because every body is different. He discusses how misaligned ankles can affect skull positioning, or why adjusting babies isn’t the same as adjusting athletes. He tailors his care to the individual, never compromising on the art of the adjustment.

Building a Referral-Only Practice

Dr. Marum didn’t rely on marketing gimmicks. Instead, he served powerfully and let results speak for themselves. Taking on complex cases and delivering miracles turned his patients into his greatest advocates. Today, his womb-to-tomb practice is built on trust, transformation, and teaching.

CLOSING THOUGHT

“Chiropractic doesn’t cure anything. We simply correct subluxations, and the body does the rest.”

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INTRODUCING DR. MARC J. SURPRENANT

Dr. Marc J. Surprenant joins James Chester on episode 677 of the Chiro Hustle Podcast to reignite the passion for principled chiropractic. In this heartfelt and high-energy episode, Dr. Surprenant opens up about rediscovering the magic of chiropractic after 25 years in practice, and how service, not ego, is the secret to staying aligned. They discuss coaching, the importance of staying philosophically grounded, and how to truly connect with patients and communities.

HIGHLIGHTS

·      Rediscovering love for chiropractic through service.

·      From asthma to full health: how chiropractic changed Dr. Surprenant’s life.

·      The hidden power of flow state in practice success.

·      How being coachable turned his flailing career around.

·      Adjustments as ministry: serving people where they are.

·      The story of Timmy: from terminal illness to full life through chiropractic.

·      Staying rooted in BJ Palmer’s Sacred Trust amidst evolving tools.

ABOUT DR. MARC J. SURPRENANT, DC

Dr. Marc J. Surprenant is the founder of Family Healing Chiropractic in Charlotte, NC. With over 25 years in practice, he is known for combining deep chiropractic philosophy with real-world experience as a coach and mentor to chiropractors and students alike.

DIVING INTO…

Staying True to Chiropractic Principles

Dr. Surprenant emphasizes that chiropractic must remain rooted in its foundational philosophy. Whether you use lasers or decompression or shockwave - never stop adjusting, and never stop teaching the principle. His journey from patient to doctor began with four medications, which he no longer needed once he was under care. That transformation fuels his lifelong passion.

The Power of Service Over Ego

From working in parking lots at church to traveling to Asheville to serve volunteers, Dr. Surprenant shares how the best way to find purpose is to show up without ego. Serving others is what kept his fire alive, even when things were hard, and it continues to be his north star.

Coaching: The Accountability Gamechanger

Early in his career, Dr. Surprenant was bartending to stay afloat. It wasn’t until someone told him the hard truth - “You suck because you have no coach” - that he found direction. Today, he’s passing that wisdom forward with a focus on helping chiropractors reconnect with their purpose and establish systems that help them thrive.

The Miracle of Timmy

A powerful moment in the episode is the story of a child with a terminal autoimmune disorder. After exhausting all medical options, his family turned to chiropractic. The results were nothing short of miraculous - he’s now a thriving adult, and it all started with the removal of interference.

Final Takeaway

“If your life sucks - go serve more.” Dr. Surprenant doesn’t just say it. He lives it. And it might just be the simplest, most powerful advice you’ll hear all year.

INTRODUCING DR TIM YOUNG DC

In this compelling episode of the Chiro Hustle Podcast, James Chester welcomes Dr. Tim Young DC, a stalwart of subluxation-based chiropractic from Oklahoma City. The conversation dives into Dr. Young’s philosophy, legacy-building efforts through Focus OKC, and his unwavering belief that chiropractic, when practiced purely, needs nothing else to succeed. Whether you’re a veteran DC or a fresh student of the art, this episode reignites why you got into chiropractic in the first place.

https://chirohustle.com/chiropractic-needs-nothing-else-to-be-successful-with-dr-tim-young-dc-chiro-hustle-podcast-676/

HIGHLIGHTS

·      Dr. Young emphasizes: “You do not have to add to chiropractic to be successful at chiropractic.”

·      The origin story of Focus OKC, now 15 years strong, and its ripple effect across the profession.

·      Why technique mastery and patient connection are non-negotiables in building a referral-based, high-integrity practice.

·      A candid call to support students and new graduates by teaching what isn’t taught in school.

·      The unique mentorship model of Focus Foundations, blending real-world video access with philosophy.

·      Book recommendations: Fred Barge’s “Are You the Doctor, Doctor?”, Marcus Bach’s “The Chiropractic Story”, and more.

ABOUT DR TIM YOUNG DC

Dr. Tim Young, DC is the founder of Young Chiropractic in Oklahoma City, Focus OKC, and Focus Foundations. A global teacher of the Focus Chiropractic Technique, Dr. Young is revered for his commitment to principled care, high-volume adjusting, and serving the profession with love and gratitude.

DIVING INTO…

Staying True to the Chiropractic Principle

Dr. Young doubles down on the foundational truths laid down by BJ Palmer: remove subluxation, trust Innate, and let the body heal. His core message is piercingly clear—there’s nothing broken in chiropractic. It just needs to be practiced with purity and purpose.

Building the Movement Through Focus OKC

Born from a burst of inspiration on a bike ride, Focus OKC grew from a grassroots gathering into one of chiropractic’s most influential philosophy events. Dr. Young shares how it not only connects like-minded DCs, but also spurred others like Mile High and Chiro Fest to spring forth.

Mastery Through Adjusting & Mentorship

The Motion Specific Technique (MST) that Dr. Young teaches isn’t just about the “how” of adjusting—it’s about embodying certainty, speed, and intention. He gives students and chiropractors direct video access to observe his clinical process, making learning visceral and immediate.

Empowering the Next Generation

Dr. Young makes an impassioned plea to chiropractors: adopt a student, invite them into your office, and teach them what school never will. With raw honesty, he explains that chiropractic colleges can’t make you successful—but the community can.

CLOSING THOUGHT

“Your chiropractic adjustment is your signature. It defines who you are as a chiropractor.”

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 #chiropractic #chiropracticcare #chiropracticadjustment #chiropracticworks #chiropracticmarketing #chiropracticassistant #ChiropracticCares #chiropractichealth #chiropractics #chiropracticneurology #chiropracticcollege #chiropracticdubai #chiropracticlifestyle #chiropracticforlife #chiropracticajustment #chiropracticforkids #chiropracticrocks #chiropracticphotos #chiropractictreatment #chiropracticforeveryone #chiropracticadjustments #chiropracticbenefits #chiropracticfirst #chiropracticseminar #chiropracticinstrument #chiropracticbiophysics #chiropracticstudent #chiropracticcampbelltown #chiropractichealthmonth

Having appreciated chiropractic results at a young age, Dr. Judd has always gravitated toward natural healthcare. After an impactful childhood experience with chiropractic, he attended Texas Chiropractic College, graduating in 2005.

He established ProHealth Chiropractic Center in 2006. Following the heartbreaking loss of his newborn daughter Trinity, he passionately shifted his practice focus to pediatric and family chiropractic care. ProHealth has grown into a thriving, 7-figure, insurance-independent, 100% cash practice.

INTRODUCING DR. DUSTIN JUDD

Dive into this powerful episode featuring Dr. Dustin Judd, a passionate advocate of chiropractic care who has transformed his personal tragedy into a mission to provide life-changing adjustments, particularly for families and children.

In this inspiring conversation, Dr. Judd discusses the profound connection between innate intelligence and spinal health, and why maintaining a subluxation-based practice is critical for both patients and the chiropractic profession.

HIGHLIGHTS

● Discovering True Purpose: Learn how Dr. Judd's personal experience with chiropractic care as a child dramatically changed his life and set him on a path toward becoming a chiropractor.

● Turning Heartbreak into Healing: Dr. Judd shares the deeply personal story of his daughter Trinity, whose brief life catalyzed his shift toward pediatric chiropractic care, transforming tragedy into purpose.

● Building a Thriving Cash Practice: Gain insights into how Dr. Judd successfully transitioned from insurance-based to a fully cash-based practice, emphasizing the importance of congruence and authenticity.

● Philosophy Matters: Why understanding and embracing chiropractic philosophy isn't just helpful—it's essential for delivering truly transformative care.

● Adjusting with Innate Intelligence: Explore Dr. Judd's unique perspective on how adjusting patients guided by intuition and spiritual awareness leads to extraordinary results.

ABOUT DR. DUSTIN JUDD

Dr. Dustin Judd, DC, founded ProHealth Chiropractic Center in Teague, Texas, in 2006. Specializing in family and pediatric care, his practice stands out as a 100% cash-based operation, drawing patients who travel significant distances for specialized adjustments.

DIVING INTO...

Staying True to Chiropractic Principles

Dr. Judd emphasizes the significance of preserving chiropractic’s core principles, including the Sacred Trust and the subluxation model. He passionately advocates for spinal health as foundational to overall neurological function, stressing that "spinal function is neural function."

The Power of Patient Education

By transitioning his practice away from therapeutic modalities to solely adjustments, Dr. Judd demonstrates the importance of clearly educating patients on the true purpose of chiropractic care—beyond pain relief to enhanced vitality and innate healing.

Building a Referral-Based Practice

Through consistent, high-quality patient outcomes and genuine care, Dr. Judd has built a robust, referral-driven practice. He highlights how staying committed to principled chiropractic care and community engagement naturally attracts patients.

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#chiropractic #chiropracticcare #chiropracticadjustment #chiropracticworks #chiropracticmarketing #chiropracticassistant #ChiropracticCares #chiropractichealth #chiropractics #chiropracticneurology #chiropracticcollege #chiropracticdubai #chiropracticlifestyle #chiropracticforlife #chiropracticajustment #chiropracticforkids #chiropracticrocks #chiropracticphotos #chiropractictreatment #chiropracticforeveryone #chiropracticadjustments #chiropracticbenefits #chiropracticfirst #chiropracticseminar #chiropracticinstrument #chiropracticbiophysics #chiropracticstudent #chiropracticcampbelltown #chiropractichealthmonth

INTRODUCING DR CARLOS SELLES DC

In Episode 674 of the Chiro Hustle Podcast, James Chester reconnects with Dr. Carlos Selles DC—a true pioneer of chiropractic in Puerto Rico and a global voice for Spanish-speaking DCs. This powerful conversation dives deep into the timeless philosophy of chiropractic, the unexpected joys of returning to hands-on patient care, and the strategic insights that every chiropractor, especially those feeling burned out or disconnected from their purpose, needs to hear.

HIGHLIGHTS

●      Dr. Selles shares how stepping back into practice after a 15-year break reignited his passion.

●      He opens up about the unique challenges and joys of managing associate-driven practices.

●      Dr. Selles distinguishes between a technician’s and a professional’s approach to chiropractic.

●      Valuable guidance is given for chiropractic students seeking mentorship and experience.

●      Grassroots marketing strategies and patient connection tactics are laid out in detail.

●      He explains why Latin America might be the next epicenter of principled chiropractic growth.

●      Insightful commentary on why forgetting the "bathroom tile" might just save your practice launch.

ABOUT DR CARLOS SELLES DC

Dr. Carlos Selles, DC is the General Director of QuiroHealth Centers in Puerto Rico and a widely respected consultant, speaker, and mentor to Spanish-speaking chiropractors. His impact spans decades, and his return to adjusting has only deepened his commitment to the chiropractic mission.

DIVING INTO...

Returning to Practice: A Rediscovery of Purpose

After stepping away from the adjusting table for 15 years to manage and grow his clinics, Dr. Selles was thrust back into care when several associates left unexpectedly. What began as a necessity turned into a reawakening of love for direct patient interaction. His emotional recount of coming home smiling for the first time in years reveals the soul of principled chiropractic.

Mentorship, Coaching, and the Real Meaning of Professionalism

Dr. Selles breaks down the difference between mentors, coaches, and bosses with clarity and conviction. For students and new DCs, his advice is gold: seek out experienced, approachable chiropractors and adopt a "professional mindset" even during school. Your approach now defines your trajectory.

The Latin American Surge in Subluxation-Based Chiropractic

From Mexico to Colombia, chiropractic is blossoming in Latin America with a vibrancy and purity often diluted in other markets. Dr. Selles points out the freedom from debt, the passion for learning, and the unified community spirit as catalysts for this growth. He believes Latin America may lead the next chiropractic wave.

Grassroots Growth & Strategic Practice Launching

Marketing doesn't start on opening day. Dr. Selles details exactly how to prep 90 days out, why mall screenings work, and how "door knocking" can lead to unexpected partnerships. His most memorable quote? "Forget the bathroom tile." Focus on your future patients, not the paint colors.

INTRODUCING DR. MARK SANNA DC

In this power-packed episode of the Chiro Hustle Podcast, James Chester sits down once again with Dr. Mark Sanna DC, CEO of Breakthrough Coaching. As a second-generation chiropractor and a true advocate for the profession, Dr. Sanna dives deep into the importance of leadership, community, and preserving the philosophical roots of chiropractic. From business building insights to the future of the profession, this conversation is a must-listen for any principled chiropractor looking to grow with integrity.

HIGHLIGHTS

●      Dr. Sanna shares why no one will ever care more about your practice than you — and how to turn that truth into motivation.

●      A moving origin story: Dr. Sanna’s father overcame severe health challenges through chiropractic, launching a 69-year legacy.

●      Why building a business within a practice (rather than being handed one) created resilience and real-world growth skills.

●      The hard-earned lessons of mastering chiropractic business — not just the art of the adjustment.

●      Why financial literacy, tithing, and compound interest are essential tools for chiropractors.

●      Dr. Sanna's bold call for unity, leadership, and embracing community after the isolation of the pandemic.

●      The impact of organizations like the Foundation for Chiropractic Progress and the Chiropractic Future Strategic Plan.

ABOUT DR. MARK SANNA DC

Dr. Mark Sanna DC is the CEO of Breakthrough Coaching, a best-selling author, and a tireless advocate for the future of chiropractic. He serves on the boards of several high-impact organizations, including the Foundation for Chiropractic Progress and the Chiropractic Future Strategic Plan Leadership Committee.

DIVING INTO...

Legacy, Leadership, and Chiropractic Roots

Dr. Sanna’s story begins with family. Growing up adjusting his parents and even the family pets, his childhood was steeped in the sacred principles of chiropractic. His father, a first-generation American and chiropractic pioneer, overcame serious illness through chiropractic care. That legacy fueled Dr. Sanna’s passion—and informed his mission to ensure chiropractors never suffer financially for delivering such a powerful gift.

From Adjustments to Business Mastery

Despite being an exceptional adjuster, Dr. Sanna candidly admits his early ignorance around business management. His evolution came from necessity. He taught himself to read financial statements, understand investments, and grasp the power of compound interest. His message? Great hands aren’t enough—you need smart strategy to thrive.

Community Over Isolation

In a post-pandemic world, Dr. Sanna reminds us that while solitude can be a useful pause, true success requires connection. He calls on chiropractors to break out of the four walls of their practices and re-engage with each other. Whether through events, seminars, or coaching communities, he believes personal growth and professional momentum come from unity.

Fueling the Future of Chiropractic

Dr. Sanna is a strategic powerhouse helping lead two major initiatives: the Foundation for Chiropractic Progress and the Chiropractic Future Strategic Plan. Through national campaigns and powerful data collection, these organizations are fighting for fair reimbursement, legislative protection, and wider access for patients. His parting message? We’re stronger together, and now is the time to build the chiropractic future we believe in.

CLOSING THOUGHT

“Success begins with your mindset—and is sustained by community.” —Dr. Mark Sanna DC

In this transformative episode of the Chiro Hustle Podcast, Dr. Brent Jenogan DC—former combat Marine turned principled chiropractor—shares how he went from broken and battle-worn to becoming a leading voice in neurologically-integrated, subluxation-based care. This interview explores how chiropractic helped Dr. Jenogan reclaim his purpose, why breathwork and self-inquiry matter, and how finding your tribe can completely rewire your journey in life and practice.

● Dr. Jenogan reveals how PTSD and trauma led him to chiropractic as a healing art and a calling.

● Bold quote: "You are the work." His raw personal story powerfully illustrates the deep inner work required of true healing.

● How aviation mechanics helped shape his understanding of human anatomy as a system of intricate alignment and accountability.

● Advice to students: Become obsessive about your authenticity. Know every technique, but be unshakably YOU.

● Discusses the importance of philosophical integrity and why being principled is about living the message, not just preaching it.

● Lays out why finding mentors, a solid tribe, and modeling systems is essential to evolving in both life and practice.

● Podcasting as a vehicle to push through imposter syndrome and live in true alignment.

Dr. Brent Jenogan DC, Functional Neurologist & Chiropractor

Based in Denver, Colorado, Dr. Jenogan specializes in brain health, organ systems, and applied kinesiology. Founder of Architect Chiropractic and host of the 'Becoming the Architect' podcast, he integrates neurology, chiropractic, and movement with a holistic, purpose-driven approach to healing.

From Special Ops to Specific Adjustments

Dr. Jenogan’s path from elite military missions to principled chiropractic is both sobering and inspiring. After serving in 14 combat tours, he returned home spiritually unanchored and emotionally frayed. His journey into healing began not with external treatments, but by exploring the inner terrain. Chiropractic became his path to clarity, purpose, and service.

Obsessed with Authenticity

For chiropractic students and young docs, Jenogan’s message is clear: Don’t idolize—integrate. Know every system, every manual, every philosophy—not to mimic, but to embody chiropractic’s essence as only you can express it. His call for “obsessive authenticity” is a bold challenge in a world of mimicry and superficiality.

Mentors, Models, and Movement

Dr. Jenogan emphasizes that success in practice and life stems from structured habits, integrity, and the right models. Drawing from his aviation background, he shares how systems-thinking and high-integrity routines can create lasting impact. He names mentors like Michael Smekka and Tim Young as key influencers and urges every DC to create their own personalized "system of excellence."

Podcasting with Purpose

Through his show Becoming the Architect, Dr. Jenogan has created space for others to share the blueprints of their growth. But it’s not just about guests—it’s about facing fears, processing imposter syndrome, and stepping fully into one’s voice. For him, podcasting is both therapy and service.

CLOSING THOUGHT

“Fall in love with yourself unconditionally. Give yourself permission—no one else will.”

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#chiropractic #chiropracticcare #chiropracticadjustment #chiropracticworks #chiropracticmarketing #chiropracticassistant #ChiropracticCares #chiropractichealth #chiropractics #chiropracticneurology #chiropracticcollege #chiropracticdubai #chiropracticlifestyle #chiropracticforlife #chiropracticajustment #chiropracticforkids #chiropracticrocks #chiropracticphotos #chiropractictreatment #chiropracticforeveryone #chiropracticadjustments #chiropracticbenefits #chiropracticfirst #chiropracticseminar #chiropracticinstrument #chiropracticbiophysics #chiropracticstudent #chiropracticcampbelltown #ch

Dr Lona has been a chiropractor for over 14 years. She still practices, coaches, and has an amazing team that is bringing TIC into public school systems. She loves helping others to envision how to expand chiropractic in the world and walk those actions out!

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#chiropractic #chiropracticcare #chiropracticadjustment #chiropracticworks #chiropracticmarketing #chiropracticassistant #ChiropracticCares #chiropractichealth #chiropractics #chiropracticneurology #chiropracticcollege #chiropracticdubai #chiropracticlifestyle #chiropracticforlife #chiropracticajustment #chiropracticforkids #chiropracticrocks #chiropracticphotos #chiropractictreatment #chiropracticforeveryone #chiropracticadjustments #chiropracticbenefits #chiropracticfirst #chiropracticseminar #chiropracticinstrument #chiropracticbiophysics #chiropracticstudent #chiropracticcampbelltown #chiropractichealthmonth

Parker College and other Early Memories with Dr James Parker Jr DC - Chiro Hustle Podcast 670

In this powerful episode of the Chiro Hustle Podcast, host James Chester sits down with Dr. James Parker Jr. DC—a 27-year chiropractor, former President of the Parker University Alumni Association, and son of the legendary Dr. Jim Parker. They dive deep into Chiropractic roots, Parker Seminars, and the transformative philosophy that helped define the profession.

HIGHLIGHTS

● Chiropractic as Legacy – Dr. Parker Jr. shares a rare, intimate view of growing up in the Parker household, where chiropractic wasn’t just a profession—it was a way of life.

● The Origin of Parker Seminars – Discover how Dr. Jim Parker turned his own practice success into a system that empowered thousands of chiropractors through live seminars and hands-on business training.

● Simple Language, Big Impact – Learn how Dr. Jim translated the philosophy into terms laypeople could grasp, which helped build one of the largest seminar audiences in chiropractic history.

● Standing at the Crossroads – Dr. Parker Jr. candidly discusses where the profession is headed and the risks of moving toward over-integration with the medical model.

● BJ Palmer’s Influence – Hear about Dr. Jim’s time studying directly under BJ Palmer during WWII, and how those lessons shaped the direction of Parker-style chiropractic.

● Protecting Chiropractic’s Unique Identity – This episode is a call to arms for chiropractors to stay rooted in the philosophy that separates chiropractic from the medical model.

ABOUT DR. JAMES PARKER JR. DC 

Dr. James Parker Jr. DC is a 27-year practicing chiropractor, the former President of the Parker University Alumni Association and Texas Chiropractic Association, District 5. He is the son of chiropractic legend Dr. Jim Parker, founder of Parker Seminars and Parker College.

DIVING INTO...

Growing Up Parker

Dr. Parker Jr. recalls what it was like to grow up in a household where chiropractic consumed every conversation. His father, Dr. Jim Parker, was relentless in his passion, devoting even Christmas Day to the cause. For listeners, it paints a vivid picture of dedication to the Sacred Trust.

The Birth of Parker Seminars

We learn how the Parker Seminars began with a group of struggling chiropractors asking Dr. Jim how he built his success. With little more than a few brown briefcases full of handouts, the Parker School for Professional Success was born—teaching practice-building principles before there were coaching programs or CEU credits.

Healing by Simplicity

"Bone out of place, pressure on nerve, nerve to lung, symptom goes away." Dr. Jim’s legendary ability to distill chiropractic philosophy into everyday language wasn’t just good communication—it was how he won over entire towns. His method taught thousands how to explain chiropractic so that patients finally got it.

Chiropractic’s Future: A Fork in the Road

Dr. Parker Jr. doesn’t hold back. He warns that chiropractors today must choose whether to maintain the profession’s identity or merge into the integrated healthcare model. He champions chiropractic neurology and performance-based innovations but urges the profession not to lose sight of its unique healing art—the adjustment.

Final Takeaway

“We are positioned to bring in all the other natural holistic modalities and offer them to the public—but without yielding to the medical model. Chiropractic stands alone. Let’s keep it that way.”

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#chiropractic #chiropracticcare #chiropracticadjustment #chiropracticworks #chiropracticmarketing #chiropracticassistant #ChiropracticCares #chiropractichealth #chiropractics #chiropracticneurology #chiropracticcollege #chiropracticdubai #chiropracticlifestyle #chiropracticforlife #chiropracticajustment #chiropracticforkids #chiropracticrocks #chiropracticphotos

This week on the Chiro Hustle Podcast, we sat down with Dr. Thom Gelardi, the legendary founder of Sherman College of Chiropractic. From overcoming a childhood spent in hospitals to building one of the most principled chiropractic colleges in the world, Dr. Gelardi's story is nothing short of extraordinary.

In this episode, we dive into what real chiropractic looks like, what it's drifting away from, and what it will take to bring it back. We cover philosophy, family care, insurance traps, and why mission still matters. If you've ever wondered whether your practice is as aligned as your adjustments, this conversation is a must-hear.

Our speaker today is Dr. Thom Gelardi, the founder of Sherman College of Chiropractic, located in Spartanburg, SC. Thom grew up in Mount Vernon, New York. He considers his early days some of the most fortuitous of his life. His life started with his being very sickly. His birthday is in April, and he spent his first eight birthdays in a hospital. One of those hospital stays lasted two and a half years, from when he was four years old until he was six and a half years old. It began with him having rheumatic fever, followed by many sequelae, resulting in a disabling heart murmur. When Thom was sixteen, his future brother-in-law finally persuaded him to see a chiropractor; the rest is history.

While attending Palmer, before there was such a thing as student loans, he worked at the Rock Island Railroad’s Freight Yard from eleven at night until seven in the morning. Thom graduated from Palmer School of Chiropractic in January 1957. He is married to the former Betty Bowen, a registered nurse with post-graduate study in obstetrics. They have five children, three of whom joined the chiropractic-practicing part of the family. He practiced chiropractic for fifteen years before founding Sherman College. Last year, Sherman College celebrated its 50th year. 

HIGHLIGHTS

• How years of childhood illness—and one illegal adjustment—shaped a chiropractic giant
• Why Dr. Gelardi believes most DCs can’t define chiropractic today
• What BJ Palmer said that rocked him to the core
• The mission that Sherman College was built on (and how it almost didn’t happen)
• Why he refused to take insurance—and still believes you shouldn't either
• Why not every patient needs an adjustment, and what that actually means
• What the next 100 years of chiropractic might look like

ABOUT DR. THOM GELARDI, DC

Founder of Sherman College of Chiropractic in Spartanburg, South Carolina. A principled chiropractor and educator committed to preserving the Sacred Trust and the philosophical core of the profession.

STAYING TRUE TO CHIROPRACTIC PRINCIPLES

Dr. Gelardi pulls no punches: most chiropractors today have drifted so far from the profession’s philosophical foundation, they can’t even define what chiropractic is anymore. For him, it’s crystal clear: health comes from within, and chiropractic is about locating, analyzing, and correcting vertebral subluxations—nothing more, nothing less.

THE HEART OF FAMILY CARE

One of the most overlooked truths? Kids need chiropractic, too. Not because they have symptoms, but because they don’t. Dr. Gelardi talks about why whole-family care was the foundation of his office, and why checking for subluxation—even without symptoms—is essential to long-term health.

WHAT MAKES A MISSION

A powerful theme throughout the episode is this: Every profession is defined by its mission. And if chiropractors can’t articulate that mission clearly, we risk becoming irrelevant. For Dr. Gelardi, chiropractic's mission is simple: