Restore To Explore

In this special in-person episode of the Restore To Explore podcast, Jim sits down with Brian Beckstead, co-founder of Altra Running, during his recent visit from the U.S. to the TFC Hub.

Altra has become a leader in the natural footwear and running space, known for its unique FootShape toe box and zero-drop platform, designed to promote natural running biomechanics. Brian shares the inspiring story of how Altra started, the mission behind its innovative design, and where the brand is headed today. He also opens up about his personal journey with chronic back pain and how transitioning to a zero-drop design helped improve his gait cycle and overall movement.

This episode dives deep into how Altra bridges the gap between conventional and fully natural footwear, the non-negotiables in their design philosophy, and the company’s ongoing mission to empower runners with shoes that let them move the way they were born to.

Guest Links:

Check out Altra’s website here. 
Follow on Altra on Instagram here.
Follow Altra on YouTube 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.

This week on Restore To Explore, we're honouring the life and legacy of Robert Fliri, a true pioneer in the barefoot movement and the creator of Vibram FiveFingers. Robert’s vision changed the way people think about footwear, bringing them closer to nature with every step. Tragically, Robert passed away last week while descending the Punta d'Oberettes ice wall in the Italian Alps. He was not just a designer but a passionate and experienced mountaineer, deeply connected to the natural world he sought to bring people back to, through his work.

As a tribute, we're re-releasing a bite-sized episode from my conversation with Robert, one that captures his passion, innovation, and philosophy on movement. In this snippet Robert responds to the backlash targeted towards his designs in the early-stages, how far the barefoot movement has come since and what he believes it will take for foot health to become a priority in our modern culture. This would tragically prove to be his final public interview. His impact on the world of footwear and natural movement will live on through his designs and the countless people he has inspired. Let’s take a moment to reflect on his incredible legacy.

You can listen to the full conversation that was released last season 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 interviews Oliver Brossmann, founder of Prevolve Footwear. Oliver shares his journey from being a soccer player with knee pain to creating custom 3D printed cleats. He discusses the challenges faced in the development process, the evolution of his product, and the significant impact that proper footwear can have on athletic performance and foot health.

In this conversation, Oliver and Nick discuss the evolution of footwear, focusing on the importance of natural shoes and the innovative solutions being developed to enhance foot health. They explore the shift in consumer awareness towards minimalist footwear, the impact of 3D printing on shoe design, and the potential for athletes to influence the industry by prioritizing foot function over brand loyalty. The discussion emphasizes the need for customization in footwear and the role of community feedback in driving innovation.

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 The Genesis of Prevolve Footwear
06:03 Overcoming Challenges in 3D Printing
11:59 The Evolution of Custom Footwear
18:03 The Impact of Footwear on Athletic Performance
22:43 Innovative Footwear Solutions
28:00 The Shift Towards Natural Footwear
31:57 The Future of Footwear Industry
38:55 Custom Footwear Experience
46:07 Feedback and Community Engagement

In this conversation, Jim Dooner interviews Ali and Sohail, the creators of Movemate, a product designed to promote movement in sedentary environments. They discuss the origins of Movemate, which stemmed from Ali's thesis project, and how personal experiences with injury and sedentary lifestyles led to the development of this innovative tool.

The conversation explores the challenges of integrating movement into office culture, the social perceptions surrounding physical activity, and the scientific benefits of low-intensity movement. The discussion emphasizes the importance of personal health and the need for tools that facilitate movement in everyday life. In this conversation, Ali and Jim discuss the significant impacts of sedentary lifestyles on health, emphasizing the importance of incorporating movement into daily routines. They explore how even small amounts of movement can lead to substantial health benefits, including improved blood flow, reduced stiffness, and enhanced mental well-being. The discussion also highlights user feedback on the transformative effects of their product, Movemate, and the ongoing research aimed at understanding the physiological benefits of active standing versus passive standing.

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 Introduction to MoveMate and Its Origins
06:00 Personal Experiences and the Impact of Movement
11:53 Office Culture and Movement Integration
18:03 The Science Behind Movement and Its Benefits
28:51 The Cost of Sedentary Lifestyles
34:53 The Importance of Movement Snacks
44:30 Transformative Feedback from Users
52:27 Ongoing Research and Future Insights

In this powerful episode, we sit down with Mick Marshall, an endurance athlete whose life changed forever after a devastating workplace accident. Once an ultramarathon runner, Mick suffered severe leg injuries that required multiple surgeries and left him having to learn to walk again—three times. He opens up about his battle with chronic pain, PTSD, and the struggle of rebuilding his identity after losing what once defined him.

But Mick’s story is not one of defeat—it's one of resilience, adaptation, and pure grit. From setting a world record for the fastest marathon on crutches to forming the Beyond Endurance team and advocating for adaptive athletes, Mick shares how he turned unimaginable hardship into a mission to inspire others.

Mick’s journey is a raw, honest, and inspiring testament to the human spirit.

Follow Mick Marshall 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:
0:00 – The Accident That Changed Everything
8:50 – From Footy to Ultra Running
17:00 – The Aftermath: Learning to Walk Again
24:30 – Complex Regional Pain Syndrome & Chronic Pain Battles
32:00 – The Turning Point: Rebuilding Through Movement
40:10 – Running a Half Marathon on Crutches
46:00 – Breaking a World Record
52:30 – The Beyond Endurance Team & Adaptive Athletics
1:00:00 – The Mental Game & Overcoming Setbacks
1:10:30 – What’s Next: The Road to Brisbane 2032

In this episode of the Restore To Explore podcast, Mac Lyon speaks with Anya Jensen, the founder of Anya's Reviews and a prominent figure in the barefoot shoe movement. Anya shares her journey from experiencing chronic foot pain to becoming a leading advocate for natural footwear. The conversation covers the evolution of her blog, the challenges of running a retail store, and the inception of the Barefoot Shoe Expo, which has grown into a significant event in the industry. Anya emphasizes the importance of in-person experiences, community engagement, and education in promoting foot health and natural footwear. Looking ahead, she shares her excitement for the upcoming expo in Denver, which promises to be even bigger and better than before.

In this conversation, Anya and Mac discuss the upcoming Barefoot Shoe Expo, highlighting the innovative workshop series, diverse footwear brands, and the growing acceptance of natural footwear. They emphasize the importance of consumer education regarding footwear choices and the balance between functionality and aesthetics in shoe design. The conversation also touches on the impact of fashion trends on footwear and the unique experience the expo offers to attendees.

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.

We’re kicking off season 4 of The Restore To Explore podcast with a bang! In this episode, Jim Dooner, Head of TFC Training and Tom Williams, TFC Pro Educator are back to dive deep into a topic that’s at the core of everything we do at The Foot Collective: ‘What Is Natural Foot Function & How to Restore It’

In this jam-packed episode, they break down:

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

---

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.

Introducing a new style of episode on the Restore To Explore Podcast: 'FOOTNOTES'. These shorter episodes, brought to you by Jim, Mac, Nick, and Tom, will delve into specific concepts and conditions to help educate you on common causes and rehab methods based on the latest research. 'FOOTNOTES' are concise, actionable insights taken from our original longer-form episodes, designed to enhance your understanding of foot health and empower you with the knowledge to take better care of your feet.

To listen to the full original episodes, head to our YouTube podcast playlist 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 talks with Tom Williams from Breath Performance Physio about the correlation between breath & foot function. Tom speaks on how to best practise breathing techniques that can be incorporated into your balance training.

Visit Tom's Breath Performance Instagram Page Here.
Visit Tom Williams' Linktr.ee 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.

Robert Fliri, an Italian designer and innovator in footwear design, shares his journey of reconnecting with nature and developing the concept of natural footwear. He grew up in the mountains, surrounded by nature, and was always drawn to technology and mechanical engineering. However, he felt a disconnect when he entered the world of design and decided to create a footwear prototype that would allow him to feel the ground like he was barefoot but with protection. This led to the development of Vibram FiveFingers, a glove-like shoe that revolutionized the way people think about footwear. The conversation explores the journey of Vibram's FiveFingers shoes and the natural foot movement.

Robert Fliri, a product developer at Vibram, discusses the importance of finding balance in movement and not pushing oneself beyond their limits. He emphasizes the idea of using footwear as tools to extend human capabilities, but also recognizes the value of the human foot as the perfect tool for running and walking.

The conversation delves into the initial response to FiveFingers, the challenges faced in bringing the product to market, and the controversy surrounding the health benefits of the shoe. It also touches on the need for proper education and a gradual transition when adopting a natural footwear approach. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the future of the natural foot movement and the potential for wider public adoption.

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

---

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.