Anatomical Gangster

In this episode of Anatomical Gangster, Sue Hitzmann sits down with Dr. Stuart McGill—Distinguished Professor Emeritus, spine biomechanics researcher, and author of Back Mechanic and Low Back Disorders—for a deep dive into the mechanics of movement, injury resilience, and what it really means to build a strong, stable spine. With over 245 peer-reviewed papers and decades of clinical and athletic consulting, Dr. McGill has shaped how we understand spinal stability, core training, and performance. From his groundbreaking 1986 Volvo Award-winning study to his work with elite athletes, McGill’s insights continue to challenge assumptions and redefine best practices. This episode explores: The truth behind spinal stiffness, bracing, and core stability How McGill’s early research on dynamic moment partitioning shaped injury prevention The role of fascia in spinal mechanics and load distribution Controversies around spinal flexion, movement variability, and chronic pain Lessons from Strongman athletes, MMA fighters, and everyday clients What’s next in spine research—and what questions still remain 🎧 Tune in for a conversation that blends biomechanics, clinical wisdom, and the art of movement. Whether you’re a therapist, athlete, or curious mover, this one’s for you.   #StuartMcGill #SpineBiomechanics #AnatomicalGangster #BackMechanic #CoreStability #FasciaAndMovement #SueHitzmann #InjuryResilience #MovementScience #LowBackDisorders  

In this episode of Anatomical Gangster, Sue Hitzmann welcomes Dr. Robert Schleip—fascia researcher, author, and founding director of the Fascia Research Society—for a deep dive into the evolving science of fascia and what’s ahead for the field. As a driving force behind the Fascia Research Congress, Dr. Schleip shares insights on the upcoming 7th International Congress in New Orleans, the paradigm-shifting discoveries that have reshaped our understanding of fascia, and how interdisciplinary collaboration is accelerating innovation. This episode explores: The evolution of fascia research since the first congress in 2007 Highlights and themes of the upcoming 2025 event How fascia influences movement, pain, and longevity The impact of tools like AlphaFold on fascia’s protein science The intersection of fascia with regenerative medicine and tissue engineering Schleip’s personal journey and shifting perspectives over time 🎧 Tune in for a conversation that challenges conventional anatomy and opens new doors to healing, performance, and human potential.  

In this episode of Anatomical Gangster, Sue Hitzmann sits down with Dr. Jean-Claude Guimberteau—microsurgeon, fascia visionary, and creator of The New Frontier of Anatomy—to explore the dynamic, fractal beauty of living tissue. Dr. Guimberteau’s pioneering use of intra-tissue endoscopy has revealed fascia not as a passive connector, but as a vibrant, intelligent system that glides, adapts, and reflects the very geometry of the cosmos. His films and books—including Strolling Under the Skin and Architecture of Human Living Fascia—have transformed how we see the body and challenged traditional anatomical models. This episode explores: The inspiration behind his 12-conference video series The New Frontier of Anatomy How fascia behaves as a sliding, gliding, and self-organizing system Why traditional gross anatomy misses the living complexity of connective tissue The artistry and science behind his films and books How fascia mirrors sacred geometry and cosmic design What lies beneath the skin—and why it matters for movement, longevity, and healing 🎧 Tune in for a conversation that reimagines the human body as a living universe—and fascia as the thread that holds it all together. #JeanClaudeGuimberteau #FasciaResearch #AnatomicalGangster #LivingMatter #IntraTissueEndoscopy #FasciaHealing #SacredGeometry #SueHitzmann #NewFrontierOfAnatomy #ConnectiveTissueWisdom  

In this episode of Anatomical Gangster, Sue Hitzmann sits down with Ann Frederick—co-founder of Stretch to Win and creator of Fascial Stretch Therapy™—to explore the journey that turned a childhood passion for movement into a globally recognized healing method. From her early days in dance and biomechanics to working with Olympic athletes and founding the Stretch to Win Institute, Ann shares how she reimagined flexibility training by focusing on fascia, rhythm, and the body’s innate intelligence. Together, Sue and Ann dive into: The defining moment that sparked Fascial Stretch Therapy™ How FST™ differs from traditional stretching methods The synergy between Ann and Chris Frederick in shaping the method What Ann is most excited to share at the Fascia Research Congress The challenges and rewards of building a movement-based career What keeps her inspired—and one surprising fact you wouldn’t guess 🎧 Tune in for a conversation that redefines movement, longevity, and resilience—and discover why fascia is the missing link in your flexibility journey. #AnnFrederick #StretchToWin #FascialStretchTherapy #AnatomicalGangster #FasciaHealing #MovementScience #SueHitzmann #ChrisFrederick #FasciaResearchCongress #FlexibilityRevolution  

In this episode of Anatomical Gangster, Sue Hitzmann welcomes David Lesondak—bodyworker, fascia specialist, and author of the international bestseller Fascia: What It Is and Why It Matters—for a deep dive into the connective tissue that’s reshaping how we understand movement, pain, and healing. With over 25 years of clinical experience and a multidisciplinary background in Structural Integration, Fascial Fitness, Visceral Manipulation, and more, David brings clarity and curiosity to the fascia conversation. His work at UPMC’s Center for Integrative Medicine and his contributions to the Fascia Research Congress have helped elevate fascia from fringe to foundational. This episode explores: The story behind Fascia: What It Is and Why It Matters How fascia bridges biomechanics, proprioception, and emotional resilience The role of media and storytelling in fascia education Collaborations with thought leaders like Jaap van der Wal What fascia might say if it could talk—and what it wants us to know The next frontier in fascia research and clinical application 🎧 Tune in for a conversation that’s equal parts science, soul, and somatic wisdom. #DavidLesondak #FasciaResearch #AnatomicalGangster #FasciaHealing #MovementScience #FasciaMatters #SueHitzmann #ConnectiveTissue #BodyIntelligence #HealingRevolution  

In this episode of Anatomical Gangster, Sue Hitzmann welcomes John Adams—Licensed Massage Therapist, founder of The Fix Therapy LLC, and creator of a tuition-free massage therapy school—for a powerful conversation on soft tissue healing, mind-body awareness, and the future of integrative wellness. With over 20 years of experience in bodywork and a passion for education, John shares how modalities like hyperbaric oxygen therapy, infrared saunas, and light therapy can unlock new levels of vitality and resilience. His approach blends modern science with ancient wisdom, helping clients and students reconnect with their bodies and rewrite limiting patterns. This episode explores: The journey from practitioner to educator and innovator How hyperbaric oxygen therapy supports tissue healing and energy flow The science behind infrared sauna and LED light therapy Why movement and awareness are key to emotional resilience The future of therapy and wellness through accessible education 🎧 Tune in for a conversation that invites you to rethink pain, presence, and the power of touch. 💡 Learn more at The Fix Therapy LLC and Alpha School of Massage #JohnAdams #TheFixTherapy #MassageEducation #HyperbaricOxygenTherapy #InfraredSauna #LightTherapy #AnatomicalGangster #SueHitzmann #MindBodyConnection #ConsciousHealing #WellnessInnovation  

In this episode of Anatomical Gangster, Sue Hitzmann welcomes two pioneering voices in fascia therapy and integrative medicine: John F. Barnes, founder of Myofascial Release and originator of Fascial Unwinding, and Dr. Carol M. Davis, Professor Emerita, energy medicine practitioner, and author in the field of rehabilitation and holistic health. Together, they explore the physiological, emotional, and energetic dimensions of fascia—how it stores trauma, facilitates healing, and connects us to deeper states of awareness. From spontaneous unwinding to the quantum potential of connective tissue, this conversation bridges science, intuition, and the future of medicine. This episode dives into: What Fascial Unwinding is and how it works physiologically Fascia as a conductor of emotional and energetic patterns The interplay between fascia and the nervous system in trauma recovery How manual therapy taps into the body’s deeper intelligence Misconceptions about fascia and the myths that need debunking Fascia’s role in consciousness and energy healing The future of fascia research and its integration into mainstream healthcare10 🎧 Tune in for a conversation that redefines healing—not just as physical release, but as a return to flow, presence, and possibility. #JohnFBarnes #CarolMDavis #FascialUnwinding #FasciaHealing #AnatomicalGangster #EnergyMedicine #TraumaRecovery #SomaticIntelligence #SueHitzmann #ConsciousnessAndHealing #IntegrativeTherapy  

In this episode of Anatomical Gangster, Sue Hitzmann sits down with David Weck—creator of the BOSU Balance Trainer and founder of WeckMethod—for a bold and brilliant conversation on movement, innovation, and the deeper forces that shape how we train. From the global impact of the BOSU ball to his latest inventions like ProPulse Speed Trainers and SoleSteps, David shares the creative spark behind his work and the philosophy that drives it: “Make every step stronger.” With honesty and humor, David also opens up about his personal journey through mental health challenges and addiction—and how those experiences have fueled his commitment to helping others move with power, purpose, and presence. This episode explores: The origin and evolution of the BOSU Balance Trainer How rotational movement and the Spinal Engine Theory inform WeckMethod training The science behind ProPulse Speed Trainers and SoleSteps Creativity as a healing force and a training tool The emotional intelligence of biomechanics What fitness might look like on other planets 🎧 Tune in for a conversation that’s as unconventional as it is unforgettable—where movement meets meaning, and every step tells a story. #DavidWeck #WeckMethod #BOSUBall #ProPulseSpeedTrainers #SoleSteps #AnatomicalGangster #MovementPhilosophy #Biomechanics #MentalHealthInFitness #SueHitzmann #InventiveTraining  

In this episode of Anatomical Gangster, Sue Hitzmann welcomes Dr. Perry Nickelston—chiropractor, educator, and founder of Stop Chasing Pain—for a transformative conversation about the lymphatic system, chronic inflammation, and the power of self-care. After overcoming a debilitating back injury and autoimmune disease, Dr. Nickelston turned his pain into purpose—developing a revolutionary approach to healing that centers on the often-overlooked lymphatic and vascular systems. This episode explores: Why the lymphatic system is key to resolving chronic pain The “Big Six” lymphatic drainage routine and how it works How movement, vibration, and synergy between systems support healing Simple daily practices for lymphatic health and resilience The philosophy behind Stop Chasing Pain and reclaiming agency 🎧 Tune in for an empowering conversation that reminds us: healing isn’t about chasing symptoms—it’s about restoring flow. #DrPerryNickelston #StopChasingPain #LymphaticSystem #ChronicPainRelief #AnatomicalGangster #VibrationTherapy #SelfCareStrategies #SueHitzmann #InflammationRecovery #BodySystemsWisdom  

In this episode of Anatomical Gangster, Sue Hitzmann welcomes Dr. Rebecca Pratt—former president of the Fascia Research Congress and one of the most respected educators in the field of anatomy and fascia science. With decades of experience in medical education and a passion for bridging research and practice, Dr. Pratt shares her insights on the evolving landscape of fascia studies, the importance of embodied learning, and the future of anatomical education. This episode explores: The role of fascia in movement, healing, and perception How teaching anatomy has changed—and where it’s headed Reflections on leadership within the Fascia Research Congress Why curiosity and collaboration are essential in science The power of mentorship and lifelong learning 🎧 Tune in for a conversation that celebrates the art of teaching, the science of fascia, and the heart of inquiry. #DrRebeccaPratt #FasciaResearchCongress #AnatomicalGangster #FasciaScience #AnatomyEducation #SueHitzmann #EmbodiedLearning #MentorshipMatters #ScienceAndSoul  

In this episode of Anatomical Gangster, Sue Hitzmann sits down with Dr. Amir A. Rashidian—renowned chiropractor, celebrated author, and founder of the Mid-Atlantic Chiropractic Center—for a deep dive into the science of stress and the art of holistic healing. With over 20,000 patient visits annually and two groundbreaking books—The StressProof Life and Cracking the Stress Secret—Dr. Rashidian shares how stress, when understood and harnessed, can become a powerful tool for transformation. This episode explores: The origin story behind Dr. Rashidian’s practice and philosophy How stress can be reframed as fuel for success Practical strategies for health, wealth, and happiness Common pitfalls in chiropractic entrepreneurship The impact of service, leadership, and community outreach 🎧 Tune in for an inspiring conversation that blends science, soul, and the pursuit of real health. 📘 Learn more about Dr. Rashidian’s work and books at www.drrashidian.com #DrAmirRashidian #AnatomicalGangster #StressProofLife #CrackingTheStressSecret #HolisticHealth #ChiropracticLeadership #SueHitzmann #RealHealthPodcast #WellnessWisdom #MidAtlanticChiropractic    

In this episode of Anatomical Gangster, Sue Hitzmann sits down with Jay Hare—founder and CEO of AlkaViva—to explore the hidden truths behind our drinking water and the technologies designed to protect it. With over 35 years of experience in business and wellness innovation, Jay shares his journey into water ionization, the evolution of filtration systems, and the health risks posed by contaminants like arsenic, microplastics, and industrial pollutants. This episode dives into: The global challenge of water contamination How AlkaViva’s technology supports optimal hydration and health Common myths about water filtration Real-life stories of transformation through clean water Jay’s vision for the future of water wellness 🎧 Tune in for an eye-opening conversation on how to reclaim the purity of what we consume—and why hydration is more than just a habit, it’s a healing practice. 💧 Learn more at www.alkaviva.com #JayHare #AlkaViva #WaterQuality #AnatomicalGangster #HydrationHealth #WaterFiltration #Microplastics #CleanWaterMatters #SueHitzmann #EnvironmentalWellness  

In this episode of Anatomical Gangster, Sue Hitzmann sits down with Ellen Petry Leanse—author, educator, and neuroscience thought leader—for a powerful conversation on the brain’s role in shaping behavior, resilience, and personal growth. With a career spanning Apple, Google, and Stanford, Ellen brings a rare blend of tech wisdom and human insight to the table. She shares how understanding the brain’s limitations and strengths can help us rewire habits, navigate stress, and reclaim agency in a fast-moving world. This episode explores: How the brain functions like ancient technology in modern life The neuroscience behind behavior, habit, and resilience Ellen’s journey from Silicon Valley to psychology Practical tools for mental clarity and emotional regulation Why happiness is a skill—and how to train it 🎧 Tune in to discover how to take charge of your brain and program more joy into your life. 📘 Check out Ellen’s book: The Happiness Hack: How to Take Charge of Your Brain and Program More Happiness Into Your Life #EllenPetryLeanse #AnatomicalGangster #Neuroscience #MentalResilience #BrainHealth #TheHappinessHack #SueHitzmann #BehaviorChange #EmotionalIntelligence #TechAndMind  

In this episode of Anatomical Gangster, Sue Hitzmann welcomes Dr. Jaap van der Wal—embryologist, anatomist, and philosopher of the body—for a deeply personal and poetic exploration of human development, fascia, and the nature of consciousness. From the wisdom of trees to the mystery of morphogenesis, this conversation weaves science and soul into a living tapestry of inquiry. Dr. van der Wal shares his insights on the embryo as a dynamic expression of movement, not a mechanical blueprint—and how fascia reveals the story of becoming. This episode touches on: The spiritual implications of embryology Why the body is a process, not a thing How fascia and form emerge through motion The role of perception, rhythm, and resonance in healing Sue’s reflections on caregiving, grief, and the intelligence of nature 🎧 Tune in for a conversation that reimagines anatomy as poetry—and invites us to feel the body as a question, not an answer. #JaapVanDerWal #Embryology #FasciaScience #Morphogenesis #AnatomicalGangster #BodyAsProcess #SueHitzmann #SomaticPhilosophy #TreesAndHealing #ScienceAndSoul  

In this episode of Anatomical Gangster, Sue Hitzmann sits down with John F. Barnes—renowned physical therapist, author, and founder of the Myofascial Release Approach. With over five decades of pioneering work, John has reshaped the landscape of bodywork and chronic pain treatment. His books, including Healing Ancient Wounds and Myofascial Release: The Search for Excellence, have become essential texts for practitioners worldwide. Together, they explore the origins of Myofascial Release, the evolution of fascia science, and the deeper emotional and energetic layers of healing. This episode dives into: What inspired the development of Myofascial Release How fascial unwinding is often misunderstood The future of fascia research and integrative therapy Why chronic pain requires a different lens Advice for new practitioners entering the field The power of patient education in lasting transformation 🎧 Listen now to learn how fascia holds the stories of our bodies—and how releasing it can unlock profound healing. #JohnFBarnes #MyofascialRelease #FasciaHealing #AnatomicalGangster #HealingAncientWounds #ChronicPain #Bodywork #SueHitzmann #FascialUnwinding #IntegrativeTherapy  

In this episode of Anatomical Gangster, Sue Hitzmann welcomes Garnet Dupuis—creator of NeuroVIZR and pioneer in brain wellness technology—for a deep dive into cognitive well-being, neuroplasticity, and the rhythms that reconnect us. Garnet’s work fuses ancient wisdom with modern science, using light and sound to support mental health, enhance brain adaptability, and promote longevity. A lifelong meditator and practitioner of Tibetan Dzogchen, Garnet brings a rare depth of insight to the conversation—spanning psychedelics, circadian disruption, and the healing power of simplicity. This episode explores: The origin story of NeuroVIZR and its impact on users How artificial light and urban living affect our brain rhythms The science behind neuroplastic change through sensory stimulation Garnet’s journey through spirituality, technology, and wild animal rescue What’s next in brain optimization and mental wellness 🎧 Tune in to discover how “simple things done well” can reshape the way we think, feel, and heal. #GarnetDupuis #NeuroVIZR #BrainWellness #Neuroplasticity #AnatomicalGangster #MentalHealthTech #CircadianRhythm #Dzogchen #PsychedelicHealing #SueHitzmann  

In this episode of Anatomical Gangster, Sue Hitzmann speaks with Pete Moore—bioethicist, author, and founder of the Centre for Bioethics and Emerging Technologies. Together, they explore the ethical terrain of human enhancement, from brain-computer interfaces to genetic modification and the future of AI-integrated bodies. Pete shares his insights on how science fiction is becoming science fact—and why we must ask not just what’s possible, but what’s responsible. This episode dives into: The moral questions behind emerging technologies How enhancement intersects with identity, autonomy, and inequality The role of bioethics in shaping public policy and personal choice Why slowing down might be the most radical act in a fast-moving world 🎧 Tune in for a provocative conversation that bridges science, philosophy, and the soul of what it means to be human. #PeteMoore #Bioethics #HumanEnhancement #AnatomicalGangster #EmergingTech #AIandEthics #Neuroethics #SueHitzmann #ScienceAndSoul

In this premiere episode of Anatomical Gangster, Sue Hitzmann sits down with Dr. Stuart Hameroff—anesthesiologist, consciousness researcher, and co-creator of the Orch OR theory with Sir Roger Penrose. Together, they explore the radical idea that consciousness may arise from quantum processes within the brain’s microtubules—tiny structural elements that could hold the key to understanding awareness itself. Dr. Hameroff shares the origins of his interest in quantum consciousness, the latest developments in microtubule research, and how his background in anesthesiology shaped his theories. This episode dives into: The Orch OR theory explained in everyday language How quantum mechanics might operate in the brain The role of interdisciplinary collaboration in consciousness studies What critics get wrong—and what the future might hold Plus, a preview of the 2025 Science of Consciousness Conference in Barcelona, where global minds will gather to explore the nature of reality. 🎧 Listen now to discover how quantum biology might reshape our understanding of self, soul, and sentience. #StuartHameroff #QuantumConsciousness #OrchOR #Microtubules #AnatomicalGangster #ScienceOfConsciousness #Neuroscience #Anesthesiology #MindAndMatter #SueHitzmann  

In this episode of Anatomical Gangster, Sue Hitzmann welcomes Michelle Nayeli Bouvier—movement educator, fascia visionary, and founder of the Kutilaa School of Embodied Resilience—for a conversation that bridges Tantrik wisdom, fascia science, and the art of adaptive movement. Michelle’s work translates the language of spirals, tension networks, and biotensegrity into practical embodiment. Her upcoming presentation at the Fascia Research Congress, Biotensegrity-Informed Movement: Integrating Neuromyofascial Research into Clinical Practice, explores how fascia’s dynamic architecture reshapes our understanding of movement, healing, and resilience. This episode explores: What sparked Michelle’s “fascianation” and how it shaped her teaching How biotensegrity-informed movement transforms clinical and somatic practice The spiral nature of fascia and its impact on movement intelligence How Tantrik yoga and fascia science co-create a deeper healing paradigm The nervous system’s role in resilience and embodied awareness The philosophy behind the Kutilaa School and what embodied resilience really means Myths Michelle loves busting—and what’s lighting her up in current research 🎧 Tune in for a conversation that invites you to move beyond rigid alignment and into the living, spiraling intelligence of your body. #MichelleNayeliBouvier #Biotensegrity #FasciaScience #AnatomicalGangster #EmbodiedResilience #KutilaaSchool #TantrikYoga #SueHitzmann #SpiralMovement #FasciaResearchCongress  

In this episode of Anatomical Gangster, Sue Hitzmann welcomes Joanne Avison—fascia therapist, somatic educator, and author of Yoga, Fascia, Anatomy and Movement—for a deep and soulful conversation on fascia’s role in healing, movement, and human potential. With over 30 years of experience translating fascia science into embodied practice, Joanne shares her journey from manual therapy to spiritual anatomy, and her reflections from the 7th International Fascia Research Congress in New Orleans. Her work bridges biomechanics and biomotional intelligence, helping practitioners move from classical anatomy to connected awareness. This episode explores: Joanne’s path into fascia therapy and the evolution of her work Highlights from the Fascia Research Congress, including global collaboration and emerging insights How fascia acts as a living intelligence—more than just connective tissue The importance of embodiment and archetypal movement patterns How fascia therapy transforms trauma, posture, and perception Challenges and opportunities for fascia practitioners today What’s next for Joanne and the future of fascia education 🎧 Tune in for a conversation that invites you to feel fascia not just as structure—but as a spiritual interface, a sensory matrix, and a pathway to healing. #JoanneAvison #FasciaTherapy #AnatomicalGangster #Embodiment #FasciaResearchCongress #SueHitzmann #YogaAndFascia #SomaticHealing #MovementIntelligence #LivingAnatomy