Restore To Explore

What if barefoot shoes were just the beginning, not the full solution?

In this team roundtable episode, recorded live in Denver, the TFC crew: Nick, Jim, Mac, Tom and Andy unpack what’s really needed to restore foot function. They go beyond shoes to talk about education, foot loading, and how consistent, low-effort training is the real game-changer.

Helpful Links:

TOOLS | Movement tools built for foot training. 
TRAINING | Programs and courses to help you build a strong foundation.
APP MEMBERSHIPS | Live and on-demand classes for everyday movers.
PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATION | Join our collective of health and movement professionals. 
DIRECTORY | Work with an aligned practitioner near you. 
FOOTWEAR | Find the right shoe for you and save with special discounts. 

Follow The Foot Collective:

INSTAGRAM
TIKTOK
YOUTUBE
FACEBOOK

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Content in this video is for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice and is not a substitute for professional health advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have an existing injury or health concern, consult a qualified health professional before starting any new movement program.

In this conversation, Jim Dooner and Heidi Van Mastrigt discuss the evolution of coaching in pain management, emphasizing a functional approach over symptom-based treatments. They explore the importance of thorough assessments in understanding foot function and the impact of footwear on overall health. Heidi shares her personal journey with footwear and how it informs her recommendations for clients.

The discussion highlights the need for a cultural shift in footwear awareness, particularly in athletic communities, to promote better foot health and performance. In this conversation, they discuss the importance of footwear, particularly minimalist shoes, in enhancing foot health and movement. They emphasize the need for education in understanding the benefits of different types of shoes and how they can impact training.

The discussion shifts to the versatility of training tools like the SoleMate, highlighting it's accessibility and effectiveness in improving movement patterns. They also touch on the significance of variability in training environments to promote adaptability.

Guest Links:

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

Helpful Links:

TOOLS | Movement tools built for foot training. 
TRAINING | Programs and courses to help you build a strong foundation.
APP MEMBERSHIPS | Live and on-demand classes for everyday movers.
PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATION | Join our collective of health and movement professionals. 
DIRECTORY | Work with an aligned practitioner near you. 
FOOTWEAR | Find the right shoe for you and save with special discounts. 

Follow The Foot Collective:

INSTAGRAM
TIKTOK
YOUTUBE
FACEBOOK

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Content in this video is for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice and is not a substitute for professional health advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have an existing injury or health concern, consult a qualified health professional before starting any new movement program.

In today’s episode, we are joined by Chad Little, a footwear designer who once worked for Nike designing shoes like Air Jordans but now he’s the founder of CODE Footwear, a company making waves by putting foot health first. Chad’s story is a powerful example of what happens when curiosity, truth, and creativity collide.

From presenting a foot health pitch directly to Michael Jordan, to building custom cleats for NFL athletes out of his basement, his journey reveals the hidden cost of modern footwear and the potential for change from the ground up. We talk about how elite performance and natural foot function don’t need to be at odds, what’s broken in the current footwear system, and why it’s time for the next generation of shoes to serve the foot, not the other way around.

Guest Links:

Follow CODE Footwear on Instagram Here
Check out CODE Footwear Here 

Helpful Links:

TOOLS | Movement tools built for foot training. 
TRAINING | Programs and courses to help you build a strong foundation.
APP MEMBERSHIPS | Live and on-demand classes for everyday movers.
PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATION | Join our collective of health and movement professionals. 
DIRECTORY | Work with an aligned practitioner near you. 
FOOTWEAR | Find the right shoe for you and save with special discounts. 

Follow The Foot Collective:

INSTAGRAM
TIKTOK
YOUTUBE
FACEBOOK

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Content in this video is for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice and is not a substitute for professional health advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have an existing injury or health concern, consult a qualified health professional before starting any new movement program.

In this episode, Jim sits down with David Weck, a pioneering movement coach, inventor of the BOSU Ball and the founder of Weck Method—based in San Diego, California. Jim was first introduced to David’s work through rope flow in 2020 during lockdowns, casually exploring the practice as a fun way to mobilise his shoulders and thoracic spine. However, it wasn’t until a visit to the Weck Lab in 2024 that his perspective dramatically shifted. Through hands-on experience and in-depth education with David and the team, Jim deepened his understanding of the powerful rotational movement principles behind Weck Method - applicable not only to athletic performance but to restoring foundational human movement in everyday life.

Since then, Jim has attended multiple Weck Method certifications and incorporated its tools and principles into his own training and TFC’s programming. The impact has been game-changing - transforming how he trains, moves, and even walks and runs. Rope flow and rotational drills have now made their way into weekly team training sessions at TFC and community classes with powerful feedback from participants.

This episode captures that learning journey and the sit-down conversation with David Weck himself, recorded during Jim’s visit to the Weck Lab. While the team encountered technical issues with the audio recording, they’ve worked to preserve the best parts of this passionate, no-holds-barred discussion - so please excuse the occasional jump in the conversation. Listeners should also note that the episode contains some strong language, reflecting David’s unfiltered passion for movement education and his critiques of common myths in the fitness world. If this episode sparks your curiosity about Weck Method, Jim highly recommends experiencing it firsthand—either through a local coach or by exploring the many free resources available online.

Guest Links:

Check out the Weck Method website here.
Follow David on Instagram here.
Follow Weck Method on Instagram here.

Helpful Links:

TOOLS | Movement tools built for foot training. 
TRAINING | Programs and courses to help you build a strong foundation.
APP MEMBERSHIPS | Live and on-demand classes for everyday movers.
PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATION | Join our collective of health and movement professionals. 
DIRECTORY | Work with an aligned practitioner near you. 
FOOTWEAR | Find the right shoe for you and save with special discounts. 

Follow The Foot Collective:

INSTAGRAM
TIKTOK
YOUTUBE
FACEBOOK

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Content in this video is for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice and is not a substitute for professional health advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have an existing injury or health concern, consult a qualified health professional before starting any new movement program.

In this episode of the Restore to Explore podcast, Jim sits down with Ben Watson — a Gold Coast-based personal trainer, mixed martial artist, certified TFC Guide, and WEC Method master coach. Ben’s journey through martial arts has deeply shaped his training philosophy, which blends skill development, rotational movement, and the power of play. Together, they explore the role of simple tools as teachers, why having fun is key to sustainable training, and how WEC Method is changing the way we approach movement.

This conversation offers a great introduction to WEC Method principles, setting the stage for the  episode with David Weck himself, recorded live from the Weck Lab in San Diego. Whether you're curious about rope flow, rotational training, or bringing more play into your movement practice, this episode is packed with practical insights and inspiration.

Guest Links:

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

Helpful Links:

TOOLS | Movement tools built for foot training. 
TRAINING | Programs and courses to help you build a strong foundation.
APP MEMBERSHIPS | Live and on-demand classes for everyday movers.
PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATION | Join our collective of health and movement professionals. 
DIRECTORY | Work with an aligned practitioner near you. 
FOOTWEAR | Find the right shoe for you and save with special discounts. 

Follow The Foot Collective:

INSTAGRAM
TIKTOK
YOUTUBE
FACEBOOK

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Content in this video is for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice and is not a substitute for professional health advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have an existing injury or health concern, consult a qualified health professional before starting any new movement program.

In this episode of the Restore To Explore podcast, Nick sits down with Joshua J. Holland - a movement coach, health educator, and long-time barefoot advocate - for a powerful conversation on the role of feet in total-body wellness. Josh shares his journey from martial arts to professional basketball and ultimately to becoming a barefoot coach, unpacking the pivotal moments that shaped his understanding of natural movement. They dive into the impact of modern footwear on athletic performance, the importance of reconnecting with the ground, and how mastering the “hardware” (the body) and “software” (the mind) can transform your health.

This episode was recorded just after The Speed Project, where Josh and a team of runners completed a 350-mile relay across the desert from LA to Vegas in just over 51 hours all while wearing barefoot shoes. This episode is a reminder that transitioning to barefoot running takes time and intention - it’s a process of learning how to Run Slow, move mindfully, and rebuild a foundation from the ground up.

Guest Links:

Follow Joshua on Instagram here. 

Helpful Links:

TOOLS | Movement tools built for foot training. 
TRAINING | Programs and courses to help you build a strong foundation.
APP MEMBERSHIPS | Live and on-demand classes for everyday movers.
PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATION | Join our collective of health and movement professionals. 
DIRECTORY | Work with an aligned practitioner near you. 
FOOTWEAR | Find the right shoe for you and save with special discounts. 

Follow The Foot Collective:

INSTAGRAM
TIKTOK
YOUTUBE
FACEBOOK

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Content in this video is for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice and is not a substitute for professional health advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have an existing injury or health concern, consult a qualified health professional before starting any new movement program.

In this episode, Mac is joined by Charlie Kirby, a passionate coach and member of our TFC community, whose journey from chronic foot pain to barefoot freedom is both powerful and deeply personal. Charlie opens up about his early days playing football. Charlie dreamed of a career in the sport, when foot pain began to creep in around the age of 10—and how it slowly took a toll on his performance, confidence, and ultimately, his career. By 17, he had to give up the game he loved. But his story didn’t end there. Through grounding, switching to barefoot shoes, and reconnecting with the natural function of his feet, Charlie found not just relief—but a whole new mission: to help others, especially young athletes, avoid the same path of pain and dysfunction.

Together they explore the overlooked role of foot health in athletic performance, the silent epidemic of foot pain in football, and how making foot training fun might be the key to a much-needed cultural shift in coaching and youth development. Whether you’re an athlete, coach, parent, or just someone dealing with foot pain, this one’s packed with powerful, practical insights, and a lot of heart.

Follow Charlie on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/thatbarefootballer/

 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)

Helpful Links & Discounts: ⬇️

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

Shop Vivobarefoot (Use code THEFOOTCOLLECTIVE to save up to 20%)

Follow Charlie on Instagram here.

Follow The Foot Collective:

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.

To celebrate the launch of the new Primus Flow - Vivo’s first barefoot running shoes - we have a special offer just for our audience. If you use the code THEFOOTCOLLECTIVE25 to save 25% on selected styles until May 15 2025. Don’t think Vivo’s are for you, our footwear finders has a tonne of trusted natural footwear brands from around the world with special discounts. SHOP 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

Welcome back to the Restore To Explore Podcast. In this week’s episode, our founder Nick is joined by Lawrence van Lingen - a movement specialist, sports chiropractor, and former High-Performance Manager for Red Bull South Africa. With over 20 years of experience working with Olympic champions, elite athletes, and everyday movers alike, Lawrence shares powerful insights into what the human body looks and feels like when it’s functioning at its absolute best.

Drawing from his work with world-class triathletes, runners, cyclists, and athletes across nearly every discipline, Lawrence now blends movement, breath, bodywork, and lifestyle into a deeply integrated approach to health — one that places nervous system health and fascial integration at the core.

Together, Nick and Lawrence explore the shifting landscape of modern healthcare, the importance of authenticity and community, and how reclaiming your health begins with personal responsibility. From the role of pain as a teacher to the power of play and presence, this conversation is packed with wisdom that applies to everyone - not just athletes - who want to move and feel better for life.

Guest Links:

Check out Lawrence's website here.

Helpful Links:

TOOLS | Movement tools built for foot training. 
TRAINING | Programs and courses to help you build a strong foundation.
APP MEMBERSHIPS | Live and on-demand classes for everyday movers.
PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATION | Join our collective of health and movement professionals. 
DIRECTORY | Work with an aligned practitioner near you. 
FOOTWEAR | Find the right shoe for you and save with special discounts. 

Follow The Foot Collective:

INSTAGRAM
TIKTOK
YOUTUBE
FACEBOOK

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Content in this video is for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice and is not a substitute for professional health advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have an existing injury or health concern, consult a qualified health professional before starting any new movement program.

In this episode of the Restore To Explore podcast Jim and Tom explore one of the most overlooked yet foundational aspects of human movement: balance. Drawing from their clinical experience and the latest insights from The Foot Collective's Foot Restoration Program, they dive into what balance truly means, how it develops, and why it's essential not just for athletic performance, but for lifelong movement and longevity.

From the staggering stats around fall-related deaths in older adults to the powerful neurological benefits of daily balance training, this conversation offers a compelling case for making balance a central part of any health routine. You'll also gain practical strategies for training balance safely and effectively, no matter your age or ability. Whether you're an athlete, a healthcare professional, or someone simply looking to move better and feel more confident on your feet, this episode is packed with actionable insights.

Helpful Links:

Foot Restoration Program | Use code 'R2E10' for 10% off.

TOOLS | Movement tools built for foot training. 
TRAINING | Programs and courses to help you build a strong foundation.
APP MEMBERSHIPS | Live and on-demand classes for everyday movers.
PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATION | Join our collective of health and movement professionals. 
DIRECTORY | Work with an aligned practitioner near you. 
FOOTWEAR | Find the right shoe for you and save with special discounts. 

Follow The Foot Collective:

INSTAGRAM
TIKTOK
YOUTUBE
FACEBOOK

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Content in this video is for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice and is not a substitute for professional health advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have an existing injury or health concern, consult a qualified health professional before starting any new movement program.

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.

Guest Links:

Check out Michael Drach's website here. 
Follow Michael Drach on Instagram here. 

Helpful Links:

TOOLS | Movement tools built for foot training. 
TRAINING | Programs and courses to help you build a strong foundation.
APP MEMBERSHIPS | Live and on-demand classes for everyday movers.
PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATION | Join our collective of health and movement professionals. 
DIRECTORY | Work with an aligned practitioner near you. 
FOOTWEAR | Find the right shoe for you and save with special discounts. 

Follow The Foot Collective:

INSTAGRAM
TIKTOK
YOUTUBE
FACEBOOK

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Content in this video is for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice and is not a substitute for professional health advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have an existing injury or health concern, consult a qualified health professional before starting any new movement program.

CHAPTERS:
00:00 Michael Drach's Journey in Sports Performance
07:42 The Importance of Foot Health in Athletic Performance
14:01 Understanding the Big Toe's Role in Movement
24:08 The Impact of Footwear on Athletic Performance
33:11 The Impact of Footwear on Performance
35:05 The Shift Towards Smaller Footwear Brands
36:52 The Benefits of Barefoot Training
39:01The Future of Footwear Distribution
40:09 Understanding Ankle Dorsiflexion and Its Importance
45:16 The Multi-Sport Athlete Dilemma
50:22 Screening and Assessing Athletes
55:30 The Role of the Nervous System in Performance