Inside Chiropractic

What does a great chiropractic associateship actually look like?In this episode of Inside Chiropractic, Dr Marcello, Dr Oz, Dr Edwina, and Dr Liz reflect on their own experiences as associates—and what truly made those roles valuable.From clinical growth to communication skills, systems, mentorship, and real-world exposure, this conversation highlights the key elements that shaped their careers and helped them transition into successful clinic owners.Inside this episode:The importance of clear expectations and structureWhy mentorship and consistent feedback are non-negotiableHow different practice environments accelerate growthThe role of autonomy vs guidance in developing confidenceWhy uncomfortable situations often create the biggest breakthroughsWhat associates should prioritise beyond just incomeKey performance indicators (KPIs) that actually matterWhether you’re a chiropractic student, new grad, current associate, or clinic owner, this episode outlines what to look for—and what to build—when it comes to creating a high-quality associateship.

Do you have to be completely obsessed with chiropractic to be a great chiropractor?In this episode of Inside Chiropractic, the team tackles a common but rarely discussed concern—especially among students and new grads: “Why don’t I feel as excited about chiropractic as everyone else?”Inspired by a real conversation with a chiropractic student, this episode explores:Whether it’s normal to not feel “rah rah” about chiropractic early onThe difference between belief, understanding, and personalityWhy chiropractic often doesn’t fully “click” until years into practiceHow experience, results, and exposure shape your enthusiasmThe role of philosophy, communication, and real patient outcomesWhy comparing yourself to more experienced chiropractors is misleadingThe conversation also highlights a key truth: enthusiasm isn’t one-size-fits-all. Some chiropractors are loud and expressive, while others are quiet and deeply grounded—but both can be equally effective.If you’re a student or early in your chiropractic journey and questioning whether you “fit,” this episode will give you clarity, reassurance, and direction.

Why do so many chiropractors struggle with confidence—even when they’re qualified and capable?In this episode of Inside Chiropractic, the team dives deep into imposter syndrome—what it is, how it shows up in practice, and why it affects so many chiropractors at every stage of their career.You’ll hear real experiences and practical insights on:Why confidence drops when you enter real-world practiceThe link between communication, clinical certainty, and self-doubtHow imposter syndrome shows up in recommendations, patient care, and leadershipThe role of philosophy and understanding chiropractic at a deeper levelHow to separate yourself from patient outcomes and reduce pressurePractical ways to build confidence—from seminars to real-world repsThis episode is especially valuable for new grads and early-career chiropractors, but even experienced practitioners will recognise these patterns.If you’ve ever felt like you’re “not good enough” or questioned whether you should be in practice, this conversation will help you reframe that—and give you tools to move forward with more certainty.

What really happens when you graduate as a chiropractor?In this episode of Inside Chiropractic, Dr Marcello, Dr Oz, Dr Edwina, and Dr Liz introduce themselves and share their unique journeys through chiropractic—across different countries, practice styles, and stages of life.From there, the conversation shifts into the reality of the first few years in practice—something rarely spoken about openly.They break down the common struggles new grads face:Low confidence despite years of studyEmpty appointment books and uncertainty around growthChallenges with communication and patient retentionNot fully understanding what chiropractic really isFeeling like you’re the only one strugglingThe team also shares what actually helped them move forward:The role of mentorship and coachingWhy communication is often the missing linkHow philosophy and clarity create confidenceThe importance of systems and guidance early onIf you’re a chiropractic student, new grad, or early in your career, this episode will help you understand that what you’re experiencing is normal—and more importantly, how to start moving forward.

In this episode of Inside Chiropractic, we break down the habits, routines, and lifestyle choices that actually make you a better chiropractor.From managing your energy in practice to building routines that support long-term performance, this conversation is all about what happens outside the adjustment room — and why it matters just as much as what happens inside it.We cover:The impact of caffeine, nutrition, and recoveryHow to structure your day for focus and energyTraining vs recovery (and where most people get it wrong)Building present time consciousness in practiceMorning routines, journaling, and mental preparationWhy your body is your business cardThe importance of switching off and avoiding burnoutIf you got value from this episode, make sure you follow the podcast and share it with another chiropractor or student.

In this episode of Inside Chiropractic, we break down what actually goes into hiring the right associate chiropractor, from the owner’s perspective.If you’re a chiropractor looking for a job, this gives you a behind-the-scenes look at what practice owners are really thinking during the hiring process.And if you’re a clinic owner, this episode will help you avoid costly hiring mistakes and build a stronger, more aligned team.We cover:Why your “why” for hiring mattersThe biggest red flags in interviewsWhat separates average associates from great onesThe importance of purpose, passion, and alignmentHow to identify someone who can actually show up when it countsIf you got value from this episode, make sure you follow the podcast and share it with someone in the profession.

In this episode of Inside Chiropractic, we break down what every chiropractor needs to know before signing their first associate contract.Your first job can shape your entire career and getting it wrong can lead to stress, burnout, or even leaving the profession altogether.We unpack what to actually look for in a clinic, the biggest red flags to avoid, and how to choose an associateship that sets you up for long-term success.We cover:Why your first associateship matters more than you thinkThe biggest mistakes new grads makeWhat to look for beyond technique or moneyRed flags in job offers and clinic structureDifferent pay models (contractor vs wage vs hybrid)Why mentorship and growth matter more than salary early onIf you got value from this episode, make sure you follow the podcast and share it with another chiropractor or student.

Follow us on instagram:@insidechiropracticSummaryJoin Dr. Marcello Manteit, Dr. Oz, and Dr. Eddie as they share practical chiropractic life hacks covering patient flow, self-care, clinic setup, and work-life boundaries. Perfect for early-career chiropractors looking to optimize their practice and personal well-being. Key  TopicsClinic flow optimizationSelf-care and boundary settingPatient communication and scriptingChapters00:00 Introduction to Chiropractic Life Hacks00:56 Managing Food and Snacks During Practice02:01 Clinic Snacks and Beverage Choices03:03 Clinic Fridge and Milk Management04:05 Eating and Breath Management on Shift05:33 Clinic Flow and Patient Scheduling07:20 Flow Optimization and Downtime Strategies08:42 Post-Shift Rituals and Mental Breaks10:07 Clinic Setup and Organization12:21 Using Scripting and Analogies in Practice14:25 Handling Common Objections with Analogies15:43 Importance of Regular Adjustments18:16 Nature-Inspired Analogies for Healing20:26 Balancing Practice and Personal Life21:32 Setting Boundaries to Switch Off23:18 Managing Relationships and Practice Boundaries24:54 Rituals and Rewards After a Big Day26:52 Maintaining Identity as a Chiropractor28:15 Talking About Practice Outside Work29:16 Final Tips and Episode Wrap-Up

Follow us on instagram:@insidechiropracticSummaryIn this conversation, Edwina Waddell and Dr. Marcello Manteit discuss the challenges faced by new graduates in the chiropractic field, including financial pressures, emotional struggles, and the journey of professional development. They reflect on their own experiences, the importance of mentorship, and how reframing fear as excitement can lead to a more fulfilling practice. The discussion emphasizes the need for patience and self-compassion during the early years of practice, as well as the value of building a supportive community.TakeawaysThe first few years in practice can feel overwhelming.Financial pressures are a significant concern for new grads.Comparing oneself to experienced practitioners can lead to frustration.Emotional turmoil is a common experience for new graduates.Mentorship can help navigate early career challenges.Expect to struggle and learn during the initial years.Building a patient base takes time and experience.Feeling safe and secure in practice improves performance.Reframing fear as excitement can enhance the experience.Enjoying the journey is crucial for long-term success.Chapters00:00 Navigating Early Career Challenges11:32 The Emotional Journey of New Graduates17:15 Reframing Fear as Excitement

Follow us on instagram:@insidechiropracticSummaryIn this conversation, Edwina Waddell and Dr. Marcello Manteit discuss the challenges faced by new chiropractic graduates as they transition from university to practice. They explore the misconceptions taught in academic settings, particularly the idea that being a good practitioner alone will attract patients. The discussion emphasizes the importance of understanding patient care beyond just alleviating pain, the need for continuous learning, and the value of building a supportive community among chiropractors. They also address the tendency to judge different chiropractic practices and the necessity of keeping an open mind to learn from diverse approaches. TakeawaysThe transition from university to practice can be challenging.Being a good practitioner is not enough to attract patients.Real-world practice often differs significantly from academic teachings.Patient care should focus on overall health, not just pain relief.Continuous learning is essential for professional growth.Building a supportive community among chiropractors enhances practice satisfaction.Judgment of different practices can limit learning opportunities.Open-mindedness is crucial for personal and professional development.Understanding patient care requires looking beyond academic studies.Networking with peers can provide valuable insights and support.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Real-World Challenges in Chiropractic Practice02:50 Misconceptions from University Education05:34 The Reality of Patient Care and Healing08:15 Shifting Perspectives: From Pain to Holistic Care11:23 Learning from Peers and Expanding Horizons13:57 Overcoming Judgment and Embracing Diversity in Practice16:56 The Importance of Open-Mindedness in Chiropractic19:38 Building a Supportive Network for New Graduates