What if your exhaustion, brain fog, poor sleep, burnout, lack of focus, and chronic stress aren't signs that something is wrong with you—but signs that your body is responding exactly as it was designed to?

In this eye-opening episode of Crackin' Backs, we sit down with Andrew Herr, one of the leading minds in human performance, resilience, travel health, and performance optimization. Andrew has spent years working alongside military special operators, Navy SEALs, fighter pilots, elite athletes, executives, and high-performing professionals studying what happens to the human body under extreme physical and cognitive stress.

What he discovered may surprise you.

The same physiological stressors experienced by elite military operators—sleep disruption, inflammation, circadian rhythm dysfunction, chronic fatigue, cognitive overload, and impaired recovery—are now affecting millions of civilians every single day.

In this powerful conversation, Andrew explains why modern humans are struggling with energy, focus, recovery, motivation, and performance despite having access to more technology, convenience, and health information than ever before.

We dive deep into the science of stress, burnout, human performance, recovery, sleep optimization, inflammation, resilience, travel fatigue, and the future of human enhancement.

In This Episode You'll Learn:

What military human performance research has revealed about the human body that most civilians never hear about

What actually breaks down first under chronic stress: your brain, hormones, sleep, immune system, or inflammation response

Why burnout, fatigue, brain fog, and poor recovery may be biological warning signals—not personal failures

Whether modern life has become a form of "low-grade operational warfare" on the human body

Why fighter pilots, Navy SEALs, CEOs, elite athletes, entrepreneurs, and exhausted parents may have more in common than you think

The surprising connection between inflammation, resilience, cognition, recovery, and long-term health

Why Andrew believes jet lag is far more than a circadian rhythm problem

How air travel affects inflammation, oxygen levels, recovery, cognitive function, and performance

Practical strategies athletes, business travelers, and frequent flyers can use to reduce jet lag and recover faster

What concerns Andrew most about the future of human performance and modern health

What modern humans have forgotten about how the body was actually designed to function

About Andrew Herr

Andrew Herr is a human performance strategist, entrepreneur, and founder of FlyKitt. He previously led human performance and biotechnology strategy efforts for the U.S. military, where he worked alongside Navy SEALs, fighter pilots, special operators, elite performers, and researchers focused on optimizing human capability under extreme conditions. Today, he applies those lessons to help athletes, executives, business travelers, and everyday people improve performance, recovery, resilience, and travel health through science-backed solutions.

His work has focused on human optimization, circadian biology, inflammation, resilience, cognitive performance, and the physiological challenges associated with travel and jet lag. FlyKitt was developed from research and practical experience working with elite military populations and has become a trusted resource for professional athletes, executives, and frequent travelers.

Whether you're an athlete, healthcare professional, entrepreneur, road warrior, parent, or simply someone trying to feel and perform better, this episode will change how you think about stress, recovery, sleep, travel, and human performance.

Listen now and discover why what you thought was "normal" may actually be holding you back.

Learn More About Andrew Herr

• FlyKitt Official Website

• Andrew Herr LinkedIn

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

What if one of the biggest beliefs in fitness is completely wrong?

For decades, athletes, coaches, and gym-goers have been told that building serious muscle requires meat, animal protein, and mountains of chicken breasts. But today's guest has spent nearly 30 years challenging that belief—and backing it up with results.

In this episode of Crackin' Backs, we sit down with IFBB Pro Bodybuilder, fitness coach, and lifelong vegan Torre Washington for a conversation that goes far beyond nutrition.

This isn't a vegan sales pitch.

This is an honest discussion about muscle growth, protein quality, performance, recovery, longevity, discipline, and whether vegan bodybuilding is truly optimal—or simply possible for the right person.

We tackle the questions everyone is asking:

• Can you build elite muscle without eating meat?
• Is plant protein enough for maximum hypertrophy?
• Are vegan athletes at a disadvantage?
• Who thrives on a vegan diet—and who may struggle?
• What does the science really say about protein, leucine, and bioavailability?
• Is success driven by diet, or by relentless discipline?

Whether you're a bodybuilder, athlete, healthcare professional, weekend warrior, or simply curious about human performance, this conversation will challenge assumptions and force you to rethink what fuels strength.

About Torre Washington

Torre Washington is one of the most recognized vegan bodybuilders in the world. An IFBB Pro Men's Physique athlete, NASM-certified coach, engineer, and longtime advocate for plant-based performance, Torre has followed a vegan lifestyle since 1998 while building a championship-level physique that has challenged fitness industry stereotypes for decades. He is widely known for combining scientific thinking, individualized coaching, and real-world experience to help athletes optimize their physiques without relying on animal products.

In This Episode You'll Learn:

The truth about protein and muscle growth

The biggest mistakes plant-based athletes make

How Torre structures his nutrition for bulking and cutting

Whether veganism is right for everyone

What biomarkers every athlete should monitor

The difference between ideology and evidence

Why discipline may matter more than diet

If you've ever wondered whether muscle is built in the kitchen, the gym, or the mind—this episode is for you.

CONNECT WITH TORRE WASHINGTON

Instagram:
@torre.washington

Website:
Engineered By Torre

Facebook:
Torre Washington Official

Subscribe to Crackin' Backs Podcast for weekly conversations with world-class experts in physical health, mental resilience, nutrition, longevity, human performance, and the science of living better.

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

Your Feet Are Getting Weaker. Here's Why. | Dr. Mark Wallen

What if the root cause of your knee pain, poor balance, declining mobility, and even faster aging starts with something you rarely think about... your feet?

For decades, medicine treated the foot as an isolated body part—something to cushion, brace, inject, or surgically repair. But after spending more than 40 years as a podiatric surgeon, Dr. Mark Wallen began questioning everything he thought he knew.

In this eye-opening conversation, Dr. Wallen shares why modern footwear may be weakening our feet, how foot dysfunction impacts the entire kinetic chain, and why strengthening the foundation of your body could be one of the most overlooked keys to longevity, athletic performance, injury prevention, and healthy aging.

We dive into barefoot training, toe spacers, orthotics, balance, posture, foot mobility, aging, athletic performance, and the surprising mistakes millions of people make every day that may be contributing to chronic pain and movement dysfunction.

Whether you're an athlete, weekend warrior, healthcare provider, parent, or simply someone who wants to stay active for life, this episode may completely change how you think about your feet.

In This Episode

Why Dr. Wallen changed his perspective after 40 years of foot surgery

The truth about orthotics, toe spacers, and foot strengthening

How modern shoes may be contributing to foot dysfunction

The hidden connection between foot health, balance, and longevity

Common footwear mistakes that can affect your knees, hips, and posture

Why foot strength matters for athletic performance and healthy aging

The most preventable foot conditions he saw throughout his career

What parents should know about raising healthy, resilient feet

About Dr. Mark Wallen

Dr. Mark Wallen is a retired podiatric surgeon with more than four decades of experience treating foot and ankle conditions. Having performed thousands of procedures and treated patients across every age group, he now focuses on educating people about foot function, movement, balance, and the role strong, healthy feet play in overall health and longevity.

Do you think modern shoes are helping us—or hurting us?

Have you ever tried barefoot training, toe spacers, or foot-strengthening exercises?

Let us know in the comments:

Subscribe for More Conversations on:

Longevity • Human Performance • Sports Medicine • Recovery • Nutrition • Mindset • Functional Health • Biohacking • Healthy Aging • Chiropractic • Physical Therapy • Movement Optimization

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’s episode may completely change the way you look at one of the most misunderstood foods on the planet… sardines.

Joining us is Dr. Andria Klioze, a physician who spent decades inside the VA healthcare system treating some of the sickest chronic disease patients in America before stepping away from the traditional “pill-for-every-problem” model to build a more root-cause driven approach to health through Shield of Life. Her work focuses on disease prevention, metabolic health, inflammation reduction, longevity, nutrition education, and helping patients reclaim their health through lifestyle transformation.

Through Shield of Life, Dr. Klioze teaches patients how food, soil quality, gut health, inflammation, and metabolic dysfunction are deeply connected. Her philosophy is simple but powerful: the body knows how to heal when we stop interfering with biology.

In this episode, we dive deep into why sardines are suddenly being called one of the world’s ultimate superfoods — packed with omega-3 fatty acids, protein, minerals, and brain-supportive nutrients that may help support longevity, reduce inflammation, improve metabolic health, and nourish the nervous system. But we also tackle the real issue: why so many people are repulsed by them before ever giving them a chance.

We break down the myths, stigma, smell, texture, and cultural misconceptions surrounding sardines, along with practical ways to prepare them so they actually taste incredible. From simple recipes and cooking strategies to the science behind why these tiny fish may outperform many expensive “health foods,” this conversation is both eye-opening and surprisingly fun.

If you care about brain health, inflammation, metabolic fitness, nutrient density, food quality, longevity, or simply learning how to eat smarter without falling for marketing hype — this is an episode you do not want to miss.

So sit back, keep an open mind… and prepare to rethink everything you thought you knew about sardines.

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

Most people think chronic illness is only about pain.

But what if the real battle is losing your identity, your purpose, and the life you thought you were going to live?

In this episode of the Crackin’ Backs Podcast, we sit down with psychologist Jeffrey Bone Psy.D for one of the most honest conversations we’ve ever had about the emotional and psychological reality of living with chronic illness and chronic pain.

This isn’t another “just stay positive” discussion.

It’s about what happens when:

• Your symptoms don’t go away
• Your labs say “normal”
• Your relationships change
• And you no longer recognize yourself

In This Episode, We Explore:

• The hidden mental health crisis behind chronic illness and chronic pain
• Why so many patients feel dismissed, unseen, or misunderstood
• How chronic illness can strip away identity, confidence, and purpose
• The truth about “learned helplessness” and why some people struggle to move forward
• How to rebuild meaning and emotional resilience when symptoms remain unpredictable
• Where mindset work helps—and where it becomes harmful or dismissive
• Practical ways to regain a sense of control over your life again

If you’ve ever searched:

• “How to cope with chronic illness”
• “Chronic pain and mental health”
• “Why do I feel lost after illness?”
• “How to find purpose with chronic pain”

This episode will help you feel seen—and understood.

About Jeffrey Bone

Jeffrey Bone Pys.D is a psychologist whose work focuses on helping individuals navigate the emotional, behavioral, and identity challenges that come with chronic illness, chronic pain, and long-term suffering.

His approach blends:

• Psychology and behavioral science
• Meaning-centered therapy
• Emotional resilience strategies
• Identity reconstruction after trauma or illness

Dr. Bone is known for helping patients move beyond simply “managing symptoms” and toward rebuilding a life that still holds purpose, connection, and meaning.

Learn More About Dr. Jeffrey Bone

🔗 Website:
Jeffrey Bone PsyD Official 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

Tapping your face to reduce anxiety?

It sounds strange… until you understand what’s actually happening in the body.

In this episode of the Crackin’ Backs Podcast, we sit down with Gwenn Bonnell, an expert in EFT tapping (Emotional Freedom Technique) and energy medicine, to explore one of the most talked-about—and debated—tools for stress relief, anxiety, trauma, chronic pain, and nervous system regulation.

This is not about blind belief.

It’s about asking a better question:
What if your body is part of the solution?

In This Episode, We Explore:

• What EFT tapping is and how it works (in plain English)
• Why people are turning to tapping for anxiety, stress, burnout, and emotional regulation
• The connection between the nervous system, body, and emotional health
• What science says—and doesn’t say—about tapping and energy medicine
• Why tapping is gaining traction in both clinical and performance settings
• When EFT should be used—and when it should not replace traditional care
• A simple 60-second tapping reset you can try immediately

If you’ve ever searched:

• “How to reduce anxiety naturally”
• “Stress relief techniques that actually work”
• “EFT tapping for beginners”
• “Nervous system regulation tools”

This episode gives you a practical, evidence-informed perspective—without overpromising.

About Gwenn Bonnell

Gwenn Bonnell is an EFT tapping practitioner and energy medicine specialist who helps individuals reduce chronic stress, emotional overwhelm, and persistent pain by working with both the mind and body.

After experiencing over a decade of chronic pain herself, Gwenn found relief through tapping—leading her to train extensively in EFT, somatic techniques, and energy-based healing approaches.

Today, she works with clients seeking:

• Anxiety and stress relief
• Trauma support and emotional regulation
• Chronic pain management
• Improved sleep and nervous system balance

Her approach blends practical tools with body-based awareness, helping people feel more in control of their internal state.

Why This Episode Matters

We’re living in a time where:

• Anxiety and burnout are at all-time highs
• People are searching for non-drug solutions
• The connection between mind and body is finally being taken seriously

But with that comes confusion—and skepticism.

This episode doesn’t ask you to believe.

It asks you to stay curious.

If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or constantly “on edge”…

This conversation might introduce a tool you’ve never considered—but can’t ignore.

🎧 Watch or listen now
…and subscribe to Crackin’ Backs for conversations that challenge what you think you know about health, performance, and healing.

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

How do you find joy… when you’ve lost everything?

In this episode of the Crackin’ Backs Podcast, we sit down with Brandon Riedel, a businessman whose life changed in an instant after being crushed by a falling tree—resulting in the loss of his right hand and right leg.

But this is not just a story about survival.

It’s a deep exploration of identity, resilience, mindset, and faith—and what it really takes to rebuild your life when everything familiar is gone.

In This Episode, We Explore:

• How to rebuild identity after trauma, amputation, and life-altering injury
• The mental and emotional reality behind “staying positive”
• Why resilience is not a mindset—but a daily practice under pressure
• The role of faith, purpose, and perspective in recovery
• How extreme adversity reshapes leadership, relationships, and priorities
• What most people misunderstand about overcoming trauma and rebuilding life
• The perspective shift you need before life forces it on you

Why This Episode Matters

Most people believe they need a crisis to change.

But the truth is…
the lessons are available now—if you’re willing to hear them.

This episode is for anyone who:

• Feels stuck, overwhelmed, or frustrated
• Is searching for purpose, clarity, or direction
• Wants to understand what real resilience looks like

Because Brandon’s story isn’t just about loss…

It’s about what’s still possible after it.

About Brandon Riedel

Brandon Riedel is an entrepreneur and speaker whose life was forever changed by a devastating accident. Through his recovery, he has become a voice for resilience, mental strength, and faith-driven transformation, showing others how to rebuild not just physically—but mentally and emotionally.

If you think you’re having a hard time…

This conversation will challenge your perspective—and show you what’s truly possible.

🎧 Watch or listen now
…and subscribe to Crackin’ Backs for conversations that redefine resilience, health, and human potential.

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

Most people say they want change.

But very few are willing to do what change actually requires.

In this episode of the Crackin’ Backs Podcast, we sit down with Terrance Ogden, founder of Project G.R.I.T., whose life is a real-world example of what it means to go from rock bottom to purpose-driven living.

This isn’t just another comeback story.

Terrance went from homelessness, drug addiction, and jail… to completing 1,000+ mile rucks across Texas—and now leads others through physically and mentally demanding challenges designed to pull them out of stagnation and into action.

In This Episode, We Explore:

• Why most people searching for motivation, discipline, and purpose stay stuck
• The real difference between surviving vs truly living
• What people misunderstand about personal transformation and change
• How doing hard things—like rucking, endurance challenges, and physical stress—can reveal deeper mental and emotional patterns
• What grit actually looks like when motivation is gone
• The internal battles that don’t disappear after success—and how to face them
• Why inspiration without action leads to the same life, year after year

Why This Episode Matters

We’re living in a time where:

• People are consuming more self-help content than ever
• Motivation is everywhere
• But real change is rare

This episode cuts through the noise.

It challenges the idea that change comes from:
- more information
- more inspiration
- more planning

And instead shows that transformation comes from:
- action under discomfort
- consistency without motivation
- doing hard things on purpose

About Terrance Ogden & Project G.R.I.T.

Terrance Ogden is the founder of Project G.R.I.T., a movement focused on helping individuals break out of destructive patterns through discipline, service, and physical challenge.

After experiencing homelessness, addiction, and incarceration, Terrance rebuilt his life by embracing hardship—using endurance events like long-distance rucking to develop mental toughness and clarity.

Today, through Project G.R.I.T., he leads others through:

• Endurance rucks and challenges
• Accountability-based transformation programs
• Community-driven growth through shared adversity

His mission is simple:
Help people take the first step out of their rut
Teach them how to keep going when it gets hard

If you feel stuck…
If you’re searching for change…
If you’re waiting for the “right moment”…

This episode will challenge you to stop waiting—and start moving.

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