EducationSelf-Improvement

Root To Rise

Dr. Emily Splichal

Root to Rise focuses on the power of connection – from the ground beneath us to the core within us – and how it shapes the way we move, feel and live. We will explore how strength does not begin in your muscles but rather starts where you are grounded.

It is time to reconnect, rebuild – and rise!

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25 episodes
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Today · 36 min
Your Arch Isn't Weak — It's Overloaded
Foot pain isn't always a sign of weakness. Sometimes, it's a sign that your foot is being asked to handle more load than it currently has the capacity to manage. In this episode of Root to Rise, Dr. Emily Splichal breaks down the concept of the overloaded arch and why strengthening alone may not be the answer. Dr Emily explores how repetitive stress, footwear, movement patterns, tissue capacity, and sensory input influence the way the foot absorbs and responds to load. Learn how to recognize when an arch is overloaded, why pain can be a signal to change the way we're loading the body, and how to build greater foot resilience without simply adding more support. Because a strong foot isn't one that never experiences stress — it's one that can sense, adapt, and respond to it. 👣 Connect with Dr. Emily Splichal: Consultations: www.dremilysplichal.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/dremilydpm 🎧 Follow & Subscribe for More: New episodes exploring barefoot science, nervous system health, emotional regulation, and holistic human performance.
S1 · E36
Friday · 46 min
Behind the Scenes of Stupid Shoes: A Conversation with the Producer
What really goes into bringing a movie like Stupid Shoes to life? In this episode, I sit down with Dee Libine the producer of Stupid Shoes for a behind-the-scenes conversation about the making of the film, the story that inspired it, the challenges of production, and what it takes to turn an idea into a finished movie. We talk about the creative process, memorable moments from the set, the people who helped make the film happen, and what audiences can expect from Stupid Shoes. 🎬 A candid conversation about filmmaking, storytelling, and the journey behind Stupid Shoes. What the trailer of Stupid Shoes https://youtu.be/CFCT1IqsVmc?si=-HJNExEpYcTTlrlr Learn more about Stupid Shoes movie - www.stupidshoesmovie.com 👣 Connect with Dr. Emily Splichal: Consultations: www.dremilysplichal.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/dremilydpm 🎧 Follow & Subscribe for More: New episodes exploring barefoot science, nervous system health, emotional regulation, and holistic human performance.
S1 · E35
September 10 · 35 min
The #1 Foot Exercise Everyone Should Know: Mastering Short Foot
What if one simple exercise could change the way you connect to your feet, stabilize your arch, and build a stronger foundation for movement? In this episode of Root to Rise, Dr. Emily Splichal breaks down one of the most important exercises she teaches: Short Foot. More than an arch-strengthening exercise, Short Foot is about learning how to create tension and stability through the intrinsic muscles of the foot while maintaining connection to the ground. Dr. Emily walks through the anatomy behind Short Foot, why foot position and sensory awareness matter, common mistakes that change the exercise, and how to progress Short Foot from an isolated activation into standing and dynamic movement. You'll learn why Short Foot has remained a cornerstone of Dr. Emily's approach to barefoot training—and why mastering this seemingly simple exercise can change the way you think about foot strength. In this episode: What Short Foot actually is The anatomy behind the exercise Intrinsic vs. extrinsic foot muscles Creating the "shortening" action without curling the toes Why sensory input matters Common Short Foot mistakes When and how to use Short Foot How to progress from activation to integrated movement Your feet don't just need to be stronger. They need to know how to respond. 👣 Connect with Dr. Emily Splichal: Consultations: www.dremilysplichal.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/dremilydpm 🎧 Follow & Subscribe for More: New episodes exploring barefoot science, nervous system health, emotional regulation, and holistic human performance.
S1 · E34
September 3 · 49 min
The Hidden Power of the Lymphatic System
What if chronic pain isn't the problem—but the body's request for change? In this episode of Root to Rise, Dr. Emily Splichal sits down with Dr. Perry Nickelston, internationally recognized as The Lymph Doc, to explore why true healing begins long before symptoms appear. Together, they unpack the remarkable connection between the lymphatic system, fascia, breath, movement, and the nervous system, revealing how these interconnected systems influence inflammation, recovery, resilience, and overall health. Dr. Perry shares why "stopping the chase" is one of the most powerful shifts clinicians and patients can make, why the lymphatic system may be the missing piece in chronic pain and persistent dysfunction, and how simple daily practices can restore the body's natural ability to heal. Whether you're a healthcare professional, movement specialist, or someone searching for answers beyond traditional pain management, this conversation will change the way you think about healing—from the inside out. In this episode you'll discover: Why pain is often a symptom—not the source—of dysfunction. The vital role of the lymphatic system in inflammation, immunity, and recovery. How fascia, breath, and movement work together to create health and resilience. Simple strategies to improve lymphatic flow and support your body's healing capacity. Why every system in the body is connected—and why healing should be approached the same way. Learn more about Dr Perry at www.stopchasingpain.com 👣 Connect with Dr. Emily Splichal: Consultations: www.dremilysplichal.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/dremilydpm 🎧 Follow & Subscribe for More: New episodes exploring barefoot science, nervous system health, emotional regulation, and holistic human performance.
S1 · E33
August 27 · 42 min
Neuropathy, Neuroplasticity & The Path Back to Better Movement
More than 20 million Americans are living with peripheral neuropathy, yet most conversations focus on what has been lost—lost sensation, lost balance, and damaged nerves. But what if the story doesn't end there? In this episode of Root to Rise, Dr Emily Splichal explores the emerging science of peripheral neuroplasticity—the remarkable ability of the peripheral nervous system and the brain to adapt following nerve injury. While nerve regeneration and neuroplasticity are distinct processes, research suggests rehabilitation, sensory retraining, and meaningful movement can influence how the nervous system reorganizes and supports recovery. You'll learn: What peripheral neuropathy really is Different types of neuropathy and causes The difference between positive and negative symptoms Why sensory input is essential for healthy movement How to safely train your feet with neuropathy How movement, sensory stimulation, and rehabilitation may support nervous system adaptation This episode challenges the idea that neuropathy is simply a condition to manage. Instead, you'll discover why the nervous system remains dynamic throughout life and how thoughtful rehabilitation can help you reconnect with your body from the ground up. 👣 Connect with Dr. Emily Splichal: Consultations: www.dremilysplichal.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/dremilydpm 🎧 Follow & Subscribe for More: New episodes exploring barefoot science, nervous system health, emotional regulation, and holistic human performance.
S1 · E31
August 6 · 34 min
Fascia Resilience: Why Collagen Fuels Movement Longevity
Every step you take doubles the energy your body puts into the ground — and fascia is the tissue that makes it possible. In this solo episode, Dr. Emily Splichal breaks down how to build fascial resiliency and why collagen, the structural protein behind your entire connective tissue web, is central to movement longevity. She walks through the science of the catapult effect, the three features every healthy fascia needs to have, and a full step-by-step routine you can do at home to train hydration, tensegrity, and elasticity in your tissue. She closes with a look at the regenerative medicine tools she uses in her own practice to restore fascial integrity after injury. - Fascia is a sensory organ with over 100 million nerve endings, not just structural tissue — it's how your brain perceives where your body is in space. - The "catapult effect" means your body can nearly double the energy absorbed at foot contact and release it on push-off, but only if your fascia is healthy. - Fascial resilience depends on three trainable features: hydration, tensegrity (stiffness/stability), and elasticity (the rubber-band effect). - Chronically elevated blood sugar oxidizes into free radicals that create inflammation and "stickiness" in connective tissue, accelerating fascial aging. - A daily fascial routine — tissue mobility, elasticity work, energy transfer drills, and strength through range — can be done at home in a short amount of time. Chapters: 0:00 Introduction — Fascial Resiliency and Collagen 1:15 What Fascia Really Is and Why It Matters 3:00 The Catapult Effect: How Fascia Multiplies Energy 7:30 Collagen 101: The Structural Protein Behind Fascia 9:00 The Three Pillars: Hydration, Tensegrity, and Elasticity 15:00 Fascia and Aging: Glucose, Stickiness, and Injury Risk 19:45 A Step-by-Step Fascial Resiliency Routine 29:00 Regenerative Medicine for Fascia: Shockwave, Biologics, and Peptides Subscribe to Root to Rise and check out Dr. Splichal's YouTube channel for the full fascial mobilization and hydration video series referenced in this episode. 👣 Connect with Dr. Emily Splichal: Consultations: www.dremilysplichal.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/dremilydpm 🎧 Follow & Subscribe for More: New episodes exploring barefoot science, nervous system health, emotional regulation, and holistic human performance.
S1 · E31
August 2 · 49 min
The Truth About Neurotransmitters, Anxiety & Brain Health
What if anxiety, low mood, brain fog, and poor focus are not simply mental health conditions—but signals that your brain is missing the nutrients it needs to function optimally? In this episode of Root to Rise, Dr. Emily Splichal is joined by functional nutrition therapy practitioner Laurie Hammer for an eye-opening conversation about the relationship between amino acids, neurotransmitters, and brain health. Together, they explore how serotonin, dopamine, GABA, endorphins, and blood sugar regulation influence everything from stress resilience and motivation to emotional well-being and cognitive performance. You'll learn how chronic stress, menopause, mold exposure, viral illness, and inflammation can contribute to neurotransmitter depletion, why amino acids are the essential building blocks of brain chemistry, and how targeted nutritional support may help restore balance. The conversation also emphasizes the importance of working with qualified healthcare providers when using nutritional strategies alongside psychiatric medications, highlighting a safe, integrative approach to supporting mental health. Whether you're looking to better understand your own brain or support the health of those around you, this episode offers a fresh perspective on the powerful connection between nutrition, brain chemistry, and overall well-being. Sections: 0:00 Introduction — Meet Laurie Hamer 3:30 The Five Core Neurotransmitters and What They Do 9:00 Anxiety as a Nutrient Deficiency, Not a Diagnosis 19:50 Mapping Amino Acids to Neurotransmitters 27:00 Real Client Case Studies and Amino Acid Testing 32:00 Medication, Tapering, and the Amino Acid Conversation 40:00 Hormones, Menopause, Mold Toxicity, and Brain Inflammation 47:00 Where to Find Laurie and Take Back My Brain Follow Laurie Hamer and the Take Back My Brain podcast to learn more about amino acid therapy and brain health testing, and subscribe to Root to Rise for more conversations on the science of human potential. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/take-back-my-brain/id1684847484 👣 Connect with Dr. Emily Splichal: Consultations: www.dremilysplichal.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/dremilydpm 🎧 Follow & Subscribe for More: New episodes exploring barefoot science, nervous system health, emotional regulation, and holistic human performance.
S1 · E29
July 23 · 40 min
The Hidden Power of Your Plantar Fascia
The plantar fascia is far more than a passive arch support—it's a dynamic tissue that helps your foot absorb, store, and return energy with every step. In this solo episode, Dr. Emily Splichal explores the anatomy and function of the plantar fascia, explaining its three bands, layered structure, and connection to the Achilles tendon. She discusses how the foot transitions from a mobile shock absorber to a stable lever during movement, and why arch compression and forefoot mobility are essential for efficient walking and running. The episode also dives into running biomechanics, ground reaction forces, injury prevention, and a fascinating real-world case study involving Cirque du Soleil performers that highlights how surface vibration can influence movement and injury risk. Chapters: 0:00 Introduction — The Athletic Arch 2:00 Plantar Fascia Anatomy: Three Bands and Two Layers 6:00 The Windlass Mechanism and Toe Extension 9:30 Metatarsal Splay and the Tie Bar Mechanism 15:45 Arch Compression, Orthotics, and Energy Potentiation 20:20 Walking vs. Running: Key Biomechanical Differences 27:00 Ground Reaction Forces, Vibration, and Muscle Tuning 35:30 Surfaces, Cirque du Soleil, and Anticipatory Stiffness Subscribe to Root to Rise for more deep dives into the biomechanics behind movement efficiency, movement accuracy, and movement longevity. 👣 Connect with Dr. Emily Splichal: Consultations: www.dremilysplichal.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/dremilydpm 🎧 Follow & Subscribe for More: New episodes exploring barefoot science, nervous system health, emotional regulation, and holistic human performance.
S1 · E28
July 9 · 49 min
Body Awareness & EMS: The Missing Piece in Movement
Body awareness isn't just mindfulness — it's a physical skill your nervous system uses with every single step, and most people lose it as they age. In this episode, Dr. Emily Splichal sits down with Joshua Holland author of The Awareness Shift and a movement educator known for his work in the barefoot and natural movement space, including his connection to Vivo Barefoot. Together they unpack body perception, proprioception, and sensory integration, then dig into developmental movement play, visualization for neurological recovery, and the mechanics of EMS suit training. The conversation moves from theory to lived practice, including real patient stories from Dr. Splichal's work with spinal cord injury rehabilitation. - Body schema — your mind's internal map of your body in space — is a skill, not a given, and it declines with age unless trained. - Fidgeting and sensory-seeking behavior in neurodivergent children can be the nervous system's way of stimulating proprioceptors to feel grounded. - Visualization can prime motor pathways even before physical movement returns, as seen in spinal cord injury rehab. - EMS (electrical muscle stimulation) suit training can recruit deep musculature that's difficult to isolate through load-based training alone, but pulse width and contraction timing matter for safety and results. - Comfort-driven design (cushioned shoes, climate control, constant food access) may be quietly weakening the body's foundational systems. Joshua J. Holland's book, The Awareness Shift: https://www.amazon.co.jp/-/en/Tessa-Cash/dp/B0BPQ42SFP Follow Josh on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joshuajholland/?hl=en Josh's podcast, Simply Walk the Talk: https://www.instagram.com/simplywalkthetalk/?hl=en Follow Josh on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshuajholland Subscribe to Root to Rise for more conversations on foot-to-core sequencing, sensory integration, and movement longevity. 👣 Connect with Dr. Emily Splichal: Consultations: www.dremilysplichal.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/dremilydpm 🎧 Follow & Subscribe for More: New episodes exploring barefoot science, nervous system health, emotional regulation, and holistic human performance.
April 30 · 36 min
The Perfect Foot: Anatomy, Bipedalism & Gait Longevity | 27
Your foot was not designed to be passive. It was engineered — with precision — for bipedalism, sensory integration, and the kind of movement longevity most people don't even know they are losing. In this episode of Root to Rise, Dr. Emily Splichal takes a deep dive into the anatomy and biomechanics of the human foot, exploring exactly why it is so uniquely built for walking. She breaks down the plantar-grade tripod, the three-arch system, and the foot-to-core sequencing that connects your first metatarsal to your pelvic floor. She examines how the human foot compares to a primate's — bone by bone, muscle by muscle — and what those differences reveal about our evolutionary design. You will learn how the Achilles tendon and plantar fascia function as an elastic return system, what the catapult effect means for forward propulsion, and why losing ankle mobility, intrinsic strength, or arch integrity collapses the entire gait pattern. Dr. Splichal also walks through the clinical progression from optimal bipedalism to the shuffling, crouched, primal gait pattern that develops when that system breaks down. Key takeaways: The three biomechanical requirements of optimal human walking Why the rigid lever position and single heel raise are essential to gait How to restore foot posture through short foot, forward lean, and ball-between-heels exercises The difference between high-gear and low-gear push off How barefoot training and sensory integration reconnect the foot to the core Follow Root to Rise on Spotify and Apple Podcasts and explore Dr. Splichal's programs and Naboso products at her practice for more on functional podiatry and barefoot science. #BarefootScience #FunctionalPodiatry #FootHealth #MovementLongevity #FootToCore #BipedalismBiomechanics #IntrinsicFoot #GaitTraining #NeuromuscularActivation #PlanterFascia #AchillesTendon #FascialFitness #BipedFootFunction #ShortFoot #RootToRise
S1 · E26
April 16 · 38 min
The Aging Foot: Movement Longevity Starts Here | 26
Walking speed is one of the most powerful biomarkers of longevity — and it depends entirely on what is happening from the ground up. In this solo episode, Dr. Emily Splichal unpacks five categories of age-related foot changes that every movement professional and health-conscious individual needs to understand: joint mobility, muscle strength, fascia and collagen, peripheral nerve function, and skin and vascular health. She connects big toe dorsiflexion directly to step length, calf pump activation, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor — making the case that protecting the first MTP joint is a neurological investment, not just a structural one. She covers the clinical reality of sarcopenia in the intrinsic foot muscles, why fascial cross-links from elevated glucose restrict energy transfer, and how to apply neuroplasticity principles when working with neuropathy patients who are too often told to stay in their shoes. Key topics include rocker sole mechanics, metatarsal pad application, Naboso insoles and socks for sensory stimulation, neural ball release for fascial hydration, fat pad atrophy management, and micro-circulation support through movement, vibration, and texture. These changes are not entirely inevitable — and the habits you build now in your 20s, 30s, and 40s determine how well you move in your 60s, 70s, and 80s. Listen now and share with a patient, practitioner, or athlete who needs this framework.
#25
February 23 · 43 min
From Fascia to Freedom: Reclaiming the Body with Sue Hitzmann | #25
In this episode of Root to Rise, Dr. Emily Splichal sits down with Sue Hitzmann, creator of the MELT Method and a global pioneer in fascia-focused self-care. Together, they explore the powerful intersection between fascia, sensory input, and nervous system regulation — and why sustainable movement must begin beneath the surface. This conversation goes beyond biomechanics. It's about resilience, adaptability, and reconnecting to the body as an intelligent system. Key Topics: Why fascia is more than connective tissue — it's a communication network How dehydration, stress, and repetitive movement patterns alter tissue quality The relationship between fascia and the autonomic nervous system Chronic pain as a sensory processing issue Why subtle input can create profound change Longevity as adaptability — not just strength About Sue Hitzmann: Sue Hitzmann is a nationally recognized educator, manual therapist, and founder of the MELT Method — a revolutionary approach to restoring the supportive qualities of connective tissue through gentle, self-administered techniques. Her work has been featured in major media outlets and is practiced globally as a sustainable approach to pain relief and longevity. Learn More… www.themeltmethod.com https://www.instagram.com/meltmethod/
#24
February 9 · 54 min
Flat Feet Aren't All the Same: What Your Foot Type Really Means | #24
In this in-depth solo episode, Dr. Emily Splichal tackles one of the most misunderstood topics in foot health: flat feet. Rather than treating flat feet as a single condition, Dr. Emily explains why the term itself is misleading and why understanding pronation, stability, timing, and foot type is essential for preventing pain and improving long-term movement health. You'll learn how foot mechanics influence everything from knee alignment and pelvic position to low back pain, fatigue, and injury risk. This episode offers a clear, practical framework for identifying flexible vs. rigid flat feet, distinguishing muscle weakness from ligament laxity, and choosing the right combination of strengthening, support, and footwear for both adults and children. Key Takeaways Why not all flat feet are the same and why classification matters How foot motion directly affects knees, hips, pelvis, spine, and posture When foot exercises can help (and when they can't change arch shape) How to approach flat feet in children without over-correcting too early Resources & Links Website & Virtual Consultations: https://thefunctionalfootdoc.com Instagram: @thefunctionalfootdoc Powerstep Arch Supports (Adults & Kids): https://powerstep.com NOBOSO Sensory Insoles: https://noboso.com Foot Wedges & Felt Pads: https://hapad.com
#23
February 2 · 49 min
Bunions, Big Toe Mobility & the Hidden Key to Walking Longevity | #23
In this solo episode of Root to Rise, Dr. Emily Splichal unpacks one of the most misunderstood foot conditions — bunions — and reframes the conversation around what truly matters: big toe mobility and how we walk. Rather than focusing only on the bunion "bump," Dr. Emily explains why the big toe is a critical driver of propulsion, glute activation, joint health, and longevity. You'll learn how limited big toe motion quietly changes your gait, drains energy, accelerates joint wear, and contributes to issues far beyond the foot — from knee pain to low back pain and instability throughout the body. This episode separates myth from truth, explains what bunions actually are (and aren't), and offers clear guidance on prevention, conservative care, and when surgery may truly be the right choice all through the lens of long-term movement health. Key Takeaways How limited big toe motion shortens stride length and increases joint wear The truth about bunion myths: genetics, shoes, and "reversing" bunions How to slow or pause bunion progression without surgery When bunion surgery may be protective — and when waiting too long limits your options Why walking mechanics are one of the strongest predictors of movement longevity Resources & Links Website & Virtual Consultations: https://thefunctionalfootdoc.com Instagram: @thefunctionalfootdoc NOBOSO Toe Spacers & Sensory Tools: https://noboso.com Bunion Programs & Foot Strength Resources: https://dremilysplichal.com
#22
January 12 · 39 min
Recharging the Nervous System with PEMF: A Conversation with Danielle Kalmbach | #22
In this episode of Root to Rise, Dr. Emily Splichal is joined by Danielle Kalmbach, wellness entrepreneur and founder of JOLT PEMF Lab, a modern recovery and performance studio specializing in Pulsed Electromagnetic Field (PEMF) therapy. Danielle's work sits at the intersection of nervous system regulation, recovery science, and performance culture. Through JOLT, she is redefining PEMF not as a passive modality, but as an intentional tool for restoring energy, improving resilience, and supporting whole-body regulation. Together, Emily and Danielle explore how PEMF influences circulation, inflammation, cellular energy, and the nervous system — and why it is becoming a cornerstone in both recovery and high-performance lifestyles. Key Topics: Why Danielle created a more intentional, human-centered PEMF experience. How PEMF supports cellular energy and nervous system regulation. Who benefits most from PEMF, from athletes to stressed professionals. How PEMF fits into a modern performance and recovery stack. Where PEMF and recovery technology are headed next. About Jaime Passaglia: Danielle Kalmbach is a wellness entrepreneur and founder of JOLT PEMF Lab, a modern recovery studio dedicated to optimizing nervous system health, energy, and human performance through Pulsed Electromagnetic Field therapy. With a human-centered approach to technology-driven wellness, Danielle works with athletes and high-performing individuals seeking smarter recovery, sustainable vitality, and deeper regulation — one pulse at a time. Learn More… Website: joltpemflab.com Instagram: @joltpemflab
#21
January 5 · 42 min
Sound as Medicine: Vibroacoustics, the Nervous System & Whole-Body Regulation with Jaime Passaglia | #21
In this episode of Root to Rise, Dr. Emily Splichal is joined by Jaime Passaglia, pediatric physical therapist and Chief Health Strategy & Clinical Officer of Solodome, to explore how immersive spatial audio and vibroacoustic technology support nervous system regulation, recovery, and whole-body wellness. Together, they discuss how sound and vibration influence physiology, where vibroacoustic therapy fits within modern healthcare, and why sound may be one of the most underutilized tools in human performance and resilience. Key Topics How sound and vibration influence pain, sleep, and nervous system regulation. Where vibroacoustics fit within functional and traditional healthcare. Why sound is a powerful tool for calming and organizing the nervous system. Solodome's shift from movement and gaming into wellness and clinical care. How sound and frequency may reshape wellness, healthcare, and performance. About Jaime Passaglia Jaime Passaglia is a pediatric physical therapist and Chief Health Strategy & Clinical Officer at Solodome Audio, where he helps create immersive spatial audio and vibroacoustic experiences that support nervous system regulation, recovery, and whole-body wellness. His work bridges sound science and human physiology, transforming sound into a powerful tool for focus, balance, and resilience. Learn More… Website: solodome.com Instagram: @solodomeaudia
Dec 29, 2025 · 38 min
The Female Foot: Hormones, Collagen & Why Your Feet Change Over Time | #20
In this powerful solo episode, Dr. Emily Splichal dives into a topic rarely discussed — yet deeply felt by millions of women: how female hormones shape foot health across every stage of life. From the menstrual cycle to pregnancy and menopause, hormonal shifts profoundly influence collagen, ligament integrity, bone density, circulation, and nerve health — all of which directly impact how your feet look, feel, and function. If you've ever wondered why your feet changed during pregnancy, why arches collapse later in life, or why foot pain seems to "suddenly appear," this episode delivers the science — and the solutions. Dr. Emily breaks down estrogen, progesterone, and relaxin through a functional lens and explains how women can proactively protect their foundation with strength, sensory input, recovery, and smart support. This is an empowering roadmap for staying grounded, strong, and mobile through every hormonal transition. Key Takeaways How estrogen loss impacts collagen, ligaments, tendons, bones, nerves, and fat pads in the feet Why women can lose up to 2% of collagen per year during menopause — and what that means for foot integrity How pregnancy hormones like relaxin alter foot structure, gait, and arch stability Why injury risk changes throughout the menstrual cycle — and how to train smarter The connection between menopause, stress fractures, and delayed healing Practical tools to protect circulation, nerve health, and foot strength at every life stage
#19
Dec 22, 2025 · 48 min
The Future of Performance Starts with the Feet, Fascia & Fundamentals with Bill Parisi | #19
In this episode of Root to Rise, Dr. Emily Splichal sits down with Bill Parisi — legendary coach, entrepreneur, and founder of Parisi Speed School and the Fascia Training Academy — to explore what it truly means to build resilient, high-performing athletes for the long term. With over 30 years of experience and more than one million athletes coached, Bill shares how his work bridges science, coaching, fascia, and human behavior. Together, Emily and Bill unpack the evolution of performance training, why fascia may be the missing link in athletic development, and how movement quality, sensory input, and foot function shape human potential from the ground up. Together, they discuss: Bill Parisi's journey from elite athlete to founder of Parisi Speed School Why fascia is the missing link in speed, power, and resilience The foot's role in ground mechanics and athletic performance How to train durable humans, not just fast athletes What's next in performance training, recovery, and education About Bill Parisi Bill Parisi is the founder of the Parisi Speed School and a leading authority in human performance and speed training. Over the past three decades, he has coached more than one million athletes, ranging from youth beginners to NFL and Olympic competitors. A pioneer in integrating fascia science into athletic development, Bill combines biomechanics, connective tissue research, and real-world coaching to help athletes move better, stay injury-resistant, and reach their full potential. He is the author of The Anatomy of Speed and Fascia Training: A Whole-System Approach, and continues to educate coaches and organizations worldwide on the future of performance training. Learn More… Instagram: @bill_parisi Parisi Speed School: parisischool.com
#18
Dec 15, 2025 · 49 min
Energy First: Dr. Sean Drake on PEMF, Light Therapy & Nervous-System Driven Performance | #18
In this episode, Dr. Emily welcomes Dr. Sean Drake — chiropractor, performance innovator, and educator — for a deep dive into the future of energy medicine and human performance. Dr. Sean's work blends PEMF, photobiomodulation, breathwork, movement, vibroacoustics, and nervous-system regulation to help people recover faster, move better, and perform at their highest potential. Together, they unpack how ancient practices and cutting-edge tools can work together, what actually drives cellular healing, and why the nervous system is the true gateway to resilience — whether you're training hard, traveling nonstop, or navigating the stressors of daily life. Together, they explore: Energy-Based Healing - What PEMF really does and why EQ Flux Wave is different. Light as Medicine - How photobiomodulation boosts energy and healing. Breathwork, Sound, Vibration & Bioenergetics - How breathwork, sound, and vibration as nervous-system regulators for Coherence, Recovery & Performance Biohacking with Intention - Stacking modalities for better recovery and performance; avoiding extremes About Dr. Dean Drake Dr. Sean Drake is a chiropractor, performance innovator, and educator working at the intersection of physiology and technology. He integrates PEMF, light therapy, breathwork, vibroacoustics, movement, and nervous-system regulation to help people heal and perform at their best. As the founder of Modern Athlete and EQ Flux Wave, Sean teaches globally on energy medicine and recovery science, empowering people to take ownership of their health. You may also know him from the Modern Athlete documentary on Amazon Prime. Resources & Links: Connect with Dr. Sean Drake Instagram: @drseandrake Websites: drseandrake.com moderneathlete.com eqfluxwave.com equniv.mykajabi.com Documentary: Modern Athlete — available on Amazon Prime
#17
Dec 8, 2025 · 43 min
A Functional & Regenerative Approach to Heel Pain | #17
In this solo episode, Dr. Emily Splichal breaks down one of the most stubborn and misunderstood conditions in foot health — plantar fasciitis. If you've ever woken up with stabbing heel pain or felt defeated by chronic inflammation that won't go away, this episode is your roadmap to lasting relief. Dr. Emily reveals how plantar fasciitis develops, what's actually happening in your fascia on a microscopic level, and why most treatment approaches miss the root cause. You'll learn her step-by-step, regenerative approach to getting patients out of pain for good — from the "Put Out the Fire" protocol to cutting-edge growth factor injections — all grounded in functional movement, tissue science, and self-recovery. This is more than a conversation about heel pain. It's a masterclass in understanding your body's intelligence to heal itself — when you know how to support it. Key Takeaways The anatomy decoded: What your plantar fascia actually does — and how microtears lead to pain. "Put Out the Fire" Protocol: Dr. Emily's four-step system for healing acute and chronic heel pain. Regenerative Medicine 101: How growth factor injections repair damaged tissue from the inside out. Tissue Stress Theory: Why overuse, not inflammation, is the real driver of chronic injury. 💪 The Functional Foot Protocol: How to rebuild foot strength, circulation, and resilience — for life. Episode Highlights The real science of plantar fasciitis — collagen types, tissue remodeling, and why scar tissue isn't strength. How teachers, nurses, and runners can manage high daily stress loads on their feet. Why your fascia's "stickiness" after rest causes that sharp morning pain. When to know it's time for regenerative treatment — and how it heals tissue naturally. The role of red light therapy, systemic enzymes, and sensory stimulation in the recovery process. Why surgery should always be the last resort — and what to do instead. Resources & Links Website: thefunctionalfootdoc.com Instagram: @thefunctionalfootdoc NOBOSO Sensory Tools: noboso.com Red Light Therapy: redlighttherapy.com Functional Foot Consultation: dremilysplichal.com/contact

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