In this episode of the Restore to Explore podcast, Founder of The Foot Collective, Nick. St Louis engages in a deep conversation with Chris Duffin - world-renowned powerlifter, author, and entrepreneur. Known for being the first person to deadlift over 1,000 pounds for multiple reps, Chris shares how foot strength and barefoot training played a critical role in achieving peak performance. They explore the deep connection between foot health and physical potential, as well as the challenges of building a footwear brand rooted in quality, sustainability, and human function. Chris also opens up about his personal journey, from a turbulent upbringing in the wilderness to becoming a respected leader in the fitness industry, highlighting the roles of resilience, innovation, and truth in both entrepreneurship and personal growth. The discussion dives into the future of footwear design and why a shift toward sustainable, foot-friendly shoes is long overdue.

Follow Chris on Instagram here.
Check out Chris's website here.

🦶 Discover your balance score in less than 10 minutes and get tailored training recommendations with our Foot Health Assessment: 👉 Take the assessment here

💪 Ready to rebuild your foundation?
Explore our 12-week Foot Restoration Program, the ultimate online system to restore strength, balance, and natural function. 👉 Foot Restoration Program Use code R2E10 for 10% off your order.

🛠️ Shop TFC Tools & Training
Everything you need to start your natural movement journey.
Use code R2E10 to save 10%.

👟 Shop Vivobarefoot
Natural, foot-shaped footwear designed for freedom and feel.
Use code THEFOOTCOLLECTIVE for up to 20% off your next pair.
(Excludes Canada, Japan, Switzerland, Czech Republic & Austria.)

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?
👉 Shop Vivobarefoot 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: Soundstripe.com 

0:00 – Kicking Off Barefoot: From Ranked Powerlifter to 1,000lb Deadlift
0:50 – Injury Sparked a Foot-Focused Deep Dive
2:34 – Out of Sight, Out of Mind: Why We Ignore Our Feet
3:40 – Intro to the Restore to Explore Podcast
5:03 – Meet Chris Duffin: Author, Entrepreneur, Powerlifting Legend
6:02 – The Eagle and The Dragon: Chris’s Story of Resilience
8:01 – Growing Up Barefoot in the Wilderness
10:04 – Rediscovering Foot Strength Through Injury
11:05 – The Foot-Body Connection Explained
13:25 – From Injured Lifter to World #1
14:26 – Why Weak Feet Hold You Back
15:00 – “Where’s the Science?” Debunking the Foot Health Myths
18:16 – The 1,000lb Barefoot Deadlift: A Performance Enhancement
20:00 – The Hidden Opportunity in Training Feet
23:02 – Footwear as Load Management: Tools, Not Crutches
24:56 – The Hard Reality of Starting a Shoe Brand
27:42 – Footwear as a Tool: Designing for the Right Job
30:54 – Made in North America: The First USA-Made Minimalist Boot
33:29 – Marketing in a Crowded Market: Competing with Giants
36:41 – Why Quality Still Wins
39:03 – Investing in Quality: Why Cheap Shoes Cost More
42:00 – Resilience and Longevity: The Barefoot Brand Ethos
46:31 – The Steel-Toe Boot Problem in Trades
51:09 – Building Boots From First Principles
55:01 – The Ursa: Barefoot Athletics' Performance Flagship
57:04 – Is Foot Health Finally Going Mainstream?
59:46 – Footwear Needs a Fashion Moment
1:01:00 – Quality, Longevity, and Doing It Right
1:02:35 – Advice for Aspiring Footwear Entrepreneurs
1:04:53 – Final Thoughts and Where to Find Chris Duffin

In this episode of the Restore To Explore podcast, Andy chats with Julia Shemesh. Julia is devoted to bringing women back home to their moving bodies as the source of their wisdom, power and freedom. She does this via nature immersion retreats in the Italian Alps, group programs, and private mentorship. She creates and holds spaces where spontaneous, creative and self-healing forces emerge from women’s moving bodies. One such event she is building towards is the Moving Mountains Festival, which will be held in 2027 in the Italian Alps, where 1,000 women will gather from around the planet to move together and heal matrilineal trauma backwards and forwards. Upcoming offerings: Making Moves (a 3-month group program), Movement Medicine Mentorship (private 1:1 work), Empower Your Nature (women’s retreat August 2026 Italian Alps). Julia is currently living barefoot with her two wonderful daughters in Thailand. Reach out to her on IG @jujueda or [email protected] to learn more.
Check out Julia's website here.

🦶 Discover your balance score in less than 10 minutes and get tailored training recommendations with our Foot Health Assessment: 👉 Take the assessment here

💪 Ready to rebuild your foundation?
Explore our 12-week Foot Restoration Program, the ultimate online system to restore strength, balance, and natural function. 👉 Foot Restoration Program Use code R2E10 for 10% off your order.

🛠️ Shop TFC Tools & Training
Everything you need to start your natural movement journey.
Use code R2E10 to save 10%.

👟 Shop Vivobarefoot
Natural, foot-shaped footwear designed for freedom and feel.
Use code THEFOOTCOLLECTIVE for up to 20% off your next pair.
(Excludes Canada, Japan, Switzerland, Czech Republic & Austria.)

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?
👉 Shop Vivobarefoot 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: Soundstripe.com 

In this episode of the Restore To Explore podcast, Jim and Nick dive deep into the world of cushioning in footwear, exploring how modern comfort culture may be disconnecting us from natural movement. They unpack the evolution of cushioning in shoes, its impact on foot function, and how it influences our posture, balance, and long-term health. From the rise of the running shoe industry to what science actually says about shock absorption and injury prevention, this conversation challenges what most of us think we know about “comfortable” shoes. Together, they explore how excessive cushioning can weaken the body’s natural resilience and why reconnecting with the ground might just be the key to rebuilding stronger, more adaptable feet.

🦶 Discover your balance score in less than 10 minutes and get tailored training recommendations with our Foot Health Assessment: 👉 Take the assessment here

💪 Ready to rebuild your foundation?
Explore our 12-week Foot Restoration Program, the ultimate online system to restore strength, balance, and natural function. 👉 Foot Restoration Program Use code R2E10 for 10% off your order.

🛠️ Shop TFC Tools & Training
Everything you need to start your natural movement journey.
Use code R2E10 to save 10%.

👟 Shop Vivobarefoot
Natural, foot-shaped footwear designed for freedom and feel.
Use code THEFOOTCOLLECTIVE for up to 20% off your next pair.
(Excludes Canada, Japan, Switzerland, Czech Republic & Austria.)

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?
👉 Shop Vivobarefoot 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: Soundstripe.com 

In this conversation, the founder of Freet - Andrew Jackson and Mac discuss the evolution of natural footwear, the challenges faced in the barefoot movement, and the importance of educating consumers about foot health. They share personal experiences and insights into the footwear industry, emphasizing the need for a shift in consumer awareness towards natural foot function and wellness.

Discover your balance score in less than 10 minutes and get tailored training recommendations by completing our brand new Foot Health Assessment.

Helpful Links & Discounts: ⬇️

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)

Shop TFC tools and training (Use the code R2E10 to save 10%)

Shop Vivobarefoot (Use code THEFOOTCOLLECTIVE to save up to 20%) - EXCLUDES CANADA, JAPAN, SWITZERLAND, CZECH REPUBLIC & AUSTRIA

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 this link and use code THEFOOTCOLLECTIVE for up to 20% off your next pair. Your feet—and the planet—will thank you.

  Follow The Foot Collective:

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: Soundstripe.com

In this episode of the Restore to Explore podcast, Mac chats with Pelé Zachariah, a former pro footballer turned fitness coach and founder of Robots gym in London. Pelé opens up about his journey from elite soccer in Barcelona to injury, identity crisis, drug use, and eventual rediscovery of purpose through movement, mindset, and play. Together, they explore the powerful relationship between play, balance, foot health, and high performance, especially for men navigating fitness, ego, and burnout. From barefoot training and breathwork to redefining masculinity and movement, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone who wants to move better, live longer, and reconnect with joy.

Follow on Pelé Instagram here.
Checkout Rowbots gym here.

Discover your balance score in less than 10 minutes and get tailored training recommendations by completing our brand new Foot Health Assessment.

Helpful Links & Discounts: ⬇️

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)

Shop TFC tools and training (Use the code R2E10 to save 10%)

Shop Vivobarefoot (Use code THEFOOTCOLLECTIVE to save up to 20%) - EXCLUDES CANADA, JAPAN, SWITZERLAND, CZECH REPUBLIC & AUSTRIA

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 this link and use code THEFOOTCOLLECTIVE for up to 20% off your next pair. Your feet—and the planet—will thank you.

  Follow The Foot Collective:

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: Soundstripe.com

In this episode of the Restore to Explore podcast, host Andy Bryant interviews Thien Trinh, a Melbourne-based podiatrist and the owner of Stryda, a company specializing in innovative foot care products. They discuss Thien's journey into podiatry, the evolution of his practice over 18 years, and the shift towards barefoot shoes and orthotics. Thien shares insights on the importance of biomechanics, the challenges of traditional footwear, and his experiences on Shark Tank, emphasizing the need for a new standard in foot health and footwear design. 

Discover your balance score in less than 10 minutes and get tailored training recommendations by completing our brand new Foot Health Assessment.

Helpful Links & Discounts: ⬇️

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)

Shop TFC tools and training (Use the code R2E10 to save 10%)

Shop Vivobarefoot (Use code THEFOOTCOLLECTIVE to save up to 20%) - EXCLUDES CANADA, JAPAN, SWITZERLAND, CZECH REPUBLIC & AUSTRIA

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 this link and use code THEFOOTCOLLECTIVE for up to 20% off your next pair. Your feet—and the planet—will thank you.

  Follow The Foot Collective:

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: Soundstripe.com

In this episode, Mac interviews Luke Mollet, a high school teacher and basketball enthusiast, who shares his journey into the world of foot health and its impact on athletic performance. Luke discusses the significance of foot training in basketball, particularly through the use of the TFC SoleMate, and how it has enhanced his performance on the court. He also delves into the exciting realm of 3X3 basketball, explaining its unique format and the vision behind his league, Legacy 3X3, which aims to elevate players to higher levels of competition, including the Olympics. The conversation highlights the importance of integrating foot health into training regimens to prevent injuries and improve overall athletic performance.

Follow Luke on Instagram here.
Follow Luke on YouTube here.
Follow the Legacy 3x3 Basketball league here. 

Helpful Links & Discounts: ⬇️
Discover your balance score in less than 10 minutes and get tailored training recommendations by completing our brand new Foot Health Assessment.

 Follow The Foot Collective:

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: Soundstripe.com

In this episode of the Restore to Explore podcast, Mac Lyon interviews Mike Messina, who shares his transformative journey from struggling with obesity and addiction to becoming a healthier, more self-aware individual. Mike recounts his experiences on the reality show 'The Biggest Loser,' where he learned the importance of mindset, breathing techniques, and the role of foot health in overall well-being. He emphasizes the need for awareness and education around foot health and how it can impact physical performance and quality of life. The conversation highlights the significance of personal stories in inspiring change and the importance of continuous learning in health and fitness.

Helpful Links & Discounts: ⬇️

Discover your balance score in less than 10 minutes and get tailored training recommendations by completing our brand new Foot Health Assessment.

If you want to learn 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)

Shop TFC tools and training (Use the code R2E10 to save 10%)

Follow The Foot Collective:

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: Soundstripe.com

This conversation explores the intricate relationship between balance training and mental health, emphasizing the importance of movement, focus, and neuroplasticity. The speakers discuss how balance training can enhance cognitive function, improve mood, and foster resilience. They highlight the significance of flow states in achieving optimal performance and the role of balance training as a practical tool for enhancing overall well-being. The discussion also touches on the accessibility of balance training and its potential to create meaningful connections within communities.

Helpful Links & Discounts: ⬇️
Discover your balance score in less than 10 minutes and get tailored training recommendations by completing our brand new Foot Health Assessment.

 Follow The Foot Collective:

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: Soundstripe.com

This podcast episode explores the relationship between sports injuries and balance training, emphasizing the multifactorial nature of injuries, the impact of footwear, and the importance of movement variability. Nick & Jim discuss the evolution of sports, the benefits and risks associated with athletic participation, and the role of balance training in injury prevention. They also introduce the TFC balance screen as a tool for measuring balance and improving athletic performance, while sharing personal stories and insights on how to make balance training accessible and enjoyable for all athletes.

Helpful Links & Discounts: ⬇️
Discover your balance score in less than 10 minutes and get tailored training recommendations by completing our brand new Foot Health Assessment.

 Follow The Foot Collective:

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: Soundstripe.com