The Crackin' Backs Podcast

What if your greatest struggles weren’t meant to break you, but to build you?

In this powerful and soul-stirring episode of the Crackin Backs Podcast, we sit down with Garrett George, a man who has turned his darkest moments into a mission of purpose, healing, and transformation. From battling personal demons to guiding others out of their own shadows, Garrett’s story is more than just inspirational—it’s a blueprint for resilience.

Pain as a Catalyst for Change

Pain is something we all experience, but few know how to use it as fuel for something greater. Was there a moment when Garrett realized that pain wasn’t just suffering, but an opportunity? How did this revelation shape the way he helps others today?

Finding Purpose in the Mess

Purpose isn’t a straight road—it’s filled with detours, uncertainty, and doubt. How does Garrett navigate those moments when clarity fades and the mission feels uncertain? What lessons has he learned from those he’s helped along the way?

Balancing Empathy & Strength

Helping others navigate pain requires both compassion and resilience. How does Garrett stay grounded while guiding individuals who feel lost? What practices keep him from burning out in his mission to change lives?

Breaking Free & Building a Legacy

Escaping pain often leads people to destructive paths—but Garrett took another route. How did he resist the urge to numb his pain through substances and instead transform it into action? And in a world full of skepticism, how does he remain authentic in his mission to help?

One Person CAN Make a Difference

We often underestimate the power of a single individual. How does Garrett believe one person can impact a world full of suffering? And more importantly, how can YOU begin making a difference today?

This is more than just a conversation—it’s a wake-up call. If you’ve ever faced pain, questioned your purpose, or wondered how to turn struggle into strength, this episode is for you. Listen now and be inspired to take action.

 Connect with Garrett George:
Website: G2 Impact Website

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 "Crackin' Backs," we are honored to host Dr. Vincent Ruiz, Ed.D., LPC, a distinguished therapist and founder of H-Hour LLC. Dr. Ruiz's journey from a 12-year military career in the U.S. Army to overcoming personal battles with addiction, and ultimately becoming a leading mental health professional, offers profound insights into resilience and transformation.

About Dr. Vincent Ruiz:

Dr. Ruiz served in the U.S. Army for over a decade, an experience that profoundly shaped his perspectives on life and resilience. Following his military service, he faced significant challenges during his transition to civilian life, including struggles with addiction that deeply impacted his sense of identity. A near-death experience became a pivotal moment, leading him to seek help and undergo an internal transformation. Inspired by his journey to recovery, Dr. Ruiz pursued a career in therapy, earning his doctorate and dedicating himself to assisting others facing similar challenges. He is the founder of H-Hour LLC, where he leads a team in challenging beliefs and fostering personal growth.

What You Will Learn:

• Defining Moments in Military Service: Dr. Ruiz shares experiences from his military career that significantly shaped his views on resilience and life.
• The Decision to Seek Help: Insights into the transformative moment when Dr. Ruiz chose to seek assistance and the internal changes that followed.
• Journey to Becoming a Therapist: What inspired Dr. Ruiz to pursue therapy as a profession and how his personal experiences influence his approach to helping others.
• Insights from 'H-Hour': Recurring themes and valuable lessons from his platform, 'H-Hour,' focusing on mental health discussions.
• Addressing Stigma Around Addiction: Strategies Dr. Ruiz employs to change societal perceptions and advice for those hesitant to seek help due to stigma.
• Incorporating Military Discipline into Therapy: How military discipline informs his therapeutic practices and ways individuals can apply similar principles to enhance mental well-being.
• Maintaining Mental Health: Dr. Ruiz's personal routines and philosophies that support his ongoing mental health journey and how they have evolved over time.

For more information about Dr. Ruiz and his work, visit H-Hour LLC's official website.

Join us for an enlightening conversation that delves into the complexities of overcoming personal challenges, and the continuous journey of maintaining mental health.

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 compelling episode of "Crackin' Backs," we are honored to host Dr. Thom Mayer, a distinguished leader in emergency and sports medicine, renowned for his crisis leadership. As the Medical Director for the NFL Players Association, Dr. Mayer has been pivotal in advancing player health and safety protocols. His extensive experience includes serving as the Command Physician at the Pentagon during 9/11 and leading medical response teams in Ukraine.

Key Discussion Points:

• Early Leadership in Crisis: Dr. Mayer reflects on a defining moment early in his career that revealed his innate ability to lead under pressure, sharing insights into personal growth during emergencies.
• Lessons from Major Crises: Drawing from his experiences during 9/11 and other significant events, Dr. Mayer discusses critical, yet often overlooked, lessons about human resilience and the power of collaboration.
• Cultivating Trust in Leadership: Emphasizing that "innovation moves at the speed of trust," Dr. Mayer delves into strategies for building trust within teams and oneself when navigating tough decisions.
• Health Practices from the NFL: He shares valuable health and mindset practices from the NFL that individuals can adopt to enhance their physical and mental well-being.
• Redefining Burnout: Addressing common misconceptions about burnout, especially in healthcare, Dr. Mayer offers a fresh perspective on how to approach and mitigate it.
• Innovations Through Trust: He provides examples from his career where building trust led to groundbreaking innovations and unexpected solutions.
• Applying Military Medicine to Civilian Healthcare: From his work in conflict zones like Ukraine, Dr. Mayer discusses practices from military or disaster medicine that could benefit civilian healthcare.
• Personal Habits for Staying Centered: Sharing personal philosophies and routines, Dr. Mayer reveals the habits he relies on to maintain balance and health amidst chaos, including his top recommendation for others.

Dr. Mayer is also the author of "Leadership Is Worthless...But Leading Is Priceless," where he explores practical leadership for difficult times, drawing from his extensive experience in crisis management.

Join us for an enlightening conversation that promises to equip you with actionable strategies and profound insights into leadership, resilience, and personal growth.

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

Imagine facing insurmountable trauma, the kind that leaves scars on both body and soul, and yet emerging stronger, healthier, and more successful than ever. That’s the incredible journey of Sandi Krakowski—an entrepreneur, author, and advocate for health and healing—who joins us on the Crackin’ Backs Podcast to share her powerful story.

Sandi’s life is a testament to resilience. She has endured unimaginable pain, including surviving multiple personal tragedies that could have left her broken. Instead, she turned her pain into purpose. Today, Sandi is a Forbes-recognized social media influencer and a thriving business mogul who inspires millions. If you’ve ever felt like you couldn’t escape your struggles or find the answers to reclaim your life, this episode is for you.

What You’ll Learn:

• Mental Health and Social Media: Sandi opens up about the toll of constant online engagement and shares strategies for protecting your mental health in our digitally obsessed world.
• Physical Health and Longevity: From menopause to gut health, Sandi provides actionable advice on how to use tools like peptides, bioidentical hormones, and personalized wellness trends to reclaim your vitality.
• Breaking Free from the Past: Learn how to release the weight of your past, tap into your potential, and trust yourself again—whether it’s your health, finances, or personal growth.
• Longevity and Aging: Sandi reveals holistic methods to extend not just your lifespan but your quality of life, using cutting-edge wellness techniques.
• Empowerment Through Self-Trust: You don’t need a degree or a privileged background to achieve success. Sandi shares how to develop self-trust and turn your challenges into stepping stones for greatness.

Key Questions We Explored:

1. In our digitally connected world, what practices do you recommend for maintaining mental health while managing the pressures of social media?
2. With increasing attention on women’s health issues like menopause, how can employers and society better support women during these transitions?
3. As wellness trends evolve, how can individuals identify and integrate meaningful approaches like gut health and personalized nutrition into their lives?
4. How can women—and anyone—proactively incorporate mental wellness practices into their routines to prevent future health challenges?
5. With growing interest in longevity, what holistic approaches do you suggest for enhancing lifespan and quality of life?

Why You Should Listen:

This is more than a podcast episode—it’s a lifeline for anyone who feels trapped in their circumstances, whether by trauma, poor health, or financial struggles. Sandi's relatable journey, coupled with her expertise in health, marketing, and entrepreneurship, makes this episode a transformative experience. You'll walk away inspired, equipped with actionable advice, and ready to reclaim control of your life.

Learn More About Sandi Krakowski:

• Visit her website: A Real Change
• Listen to her podcast: A Real Change with Sandi Krakowski
• Follow her on social media for inspiration and business tips: Facebook, Instagram

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

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