Conversations with a Chiropractor

A Voice for Lenhart: Barb Allisimi on Legacy, Loss, and a 90-Year Calling Episode Description: What if your life's purpose was rooted in a story that happened decades before you were born? In this profoundly moving episode of Conversations with a Chiropractor, Dr. Stephanie Wautier sits down with Negaunee native Barb Allisimi to trace the threads of one family's legacy—woven through heartbreak, strength, and spiritual connection. Barb shares how the tragic loss of her grandfather, Lenhart, in a 1927 Lake Superior drowning shaped generations of silence and sorrow—and how she spent her life uncovering the truth. From Finnish and Italian immigration to newspaper archives, handwritten letters, and a 90-year remembrance event that brought families together from around the globe, Barb's story reminds us that healing often starts with curiosity—and courage.

From Finland to Family Legacy: Esko Allisimi on Immigration, Identity, and Preserving History | Conversations with a Chiropractor In this special episode, Dr. Stephanie sits down with Esko Allisimi, a warm-hearted storyteller whose life has spanned continents, generations, and traditions. From his early days growing up in Finland to the challenges of immigrating to the United States, Esko shares how his identity was shaped through hardship, resilience, and love for family. They explore his career, the roots he's kept alive through regular visits back to Finland, and the cultural and personal importance of weaving—a family art passed down through generations. Esko's story is deeply human: name changes, historical records, ancestral discoveries, and the joy of crafting a life filled with meaning at 70 years old. Whether you're curious about genealogy, the immigrant experience, or the value of preserving family heritage, this episode will inspire you to reflect on your own legacy.

The Posture Plank: How Dr. Brian Kulbieda Turned One Brilliant Idea into a Movement | Conversations with a Chiropractor Description In this inspiring and wildly entertaining episode of Conversations with a Chiropractor, Dr. Stephanie Wautier welcomes fellow Marquette chiropractor and inventor Dr. Brian Kulbieda, creator of the Posture Plank. What started as a daily observation in his practice became a national-scope product now helping people reclaim their spinal health—right from home. Brian opens up about his lifelong passion for invention, the early days of chiropractic school, and how a broomstick, an elderly patient's advice, and a late-night lightbulb moment sparked the design for a posture-correcting tool now being used across age groups and activity levels. Along the way, you'll hear stories of hockey hits, soldering smoke, business lessons, and the power of community in bringing a dream to life. Whether you're an entrepreneur, clinician, or posture nerd, this is a story of grit, creativity, and genuine small-town brilliance.

College, Career, and Common Sense: Educator Melanie Korczyk on Helping Students Thrive | Conversations with a Chiropractor Description In this eye-opening episode of Conversations with a Chiropractor, Dr. Stephanie Wautier sits down with her sister, veteran educator Melanie Korczyk, for a powerful conversation on preparing students—not just for college, but for life. With over two decades in the classroom and a growing career in executive functioning coaching, Melanie shares her insights on helping students build the real-world skills they need to thrive. From college essays to career paths, ADHD to anxiety, and the truth about community college versus the four-year university track—this episode is packed with grounded wisdom and practical tools for parents, students, and educators alike. Whether you're raising a college-bound teen, guiding students through post-grad decisions, or reflecting on your own educational path, Melanie's calm, compassionate perspective is a breath of fresh air.

More Than a Voice: David Ploss on Resilience, Reconnection, and Finding Love | Conversations with a Chiropractor In this deeply personal and unexpectedly hilarious episode of Conversations with a Chiropractor, Dr. Stephanie Wautier turns the mic on her producer, voice actor, musician, and longtime friend—David Ploss. Born with a rare condition called hemifacial microsomia, David opens up about his early medical challenges, childhood surgeries, and the emotional toll of growing up "different." But what unfolds is more than a story of resilience—it's a tale of self-discovery, creative expression, viral sea shanties, and an unforgettable high school crush that turns into the love of his life. From TikTok fame to trumpet duets, this is a story about healing, humor, and the unpredictable magic of reconnection. It's also a tribute to Katie—the woman who changed everything.

Marriage, Money, and Mindset: How Jesse Ewell Helps Entrepreneurs Thrive | Conversations with a Chiropractor In this insightful episode of Conversations with a Chiropractor, Dr. Stephanie Wautier sits down with Jesse Ewell—entrepreneur, coach, and creator of Habit-Based Lifestyle. Jesse's journey from personal trainer to gym owner to high-performance coach has given him a unique perspective on business, marriage, and personal growth. Jesse shares how he built and sold multiple successful businesses, transitioned into coaching, and created a system that helps entrepreneurs prioritize what truly matters: faith, family, and personal well-being. His mission? Helping business owners avoid burnout, strengthen relationships, and create sustainable success. From the lessons learned in amateur boxing at age 10 to scaling multimillion-dollar fitness facilities, Jesse's philosophy is built on discipline, habits, and finding alignment between professional success and personal fulfillment. If you're an entrepreneur, business owner, or simply looking for ways to balance work and life more effectively, this episode is packed with valuable insights.

Holding Space: Amanda Brunngraeber on Trauma, Healing, and Helping Others | Conversations with a Chiropractor In this powerful episode of Conversations with a Chiropractor, Dr. Stephanie Wautier sits down with Amanda Brunngraeber to explore her profound journey of personal healing, self-discovery, and helping others. Amanda opens up about her experiences with generational trauma, the challenges of navigating teenage turmoil, and how her work in photography evolved into a path of holding space for herself and her community. Through candid reflections, Amanda shares how healing modalities like EMDR and spiritual practices have helped her break cycles, reclaim her sense of self, and guide others on their own journeys. Her story is one of vulnerability, resilience, and a deep commitment to creating compassionate spaces where people can feel seen and supported. If you're navigating your own healing journey or curious about how to better hold space for yourself and others, this episode offers heartfelt insights and encouragement.

115 Pounds Lost, But So Much More Gained: A Story of Transformation | Conversations with a Chiropractor In this deeply personal episode of Conversations with a Chiropractor, Dr. Stephanie Wautier sits down with Cat H, who shares her powerful journey of losing 115 pounds—but this story isn't just about weight loss. It's about breaking free from the mental and emotional burdens of body image, healing from past struggles, and discovering confidence and self-worth beyond the scale. From childhood influences on food and body image to the emotional and mental challenges that come with weight stigma, Cat's story is one of perseverance, growth, and transformation. She and Dr. Stephanie explore the connection between mental health and physical health, shedding light on the power of mindset in creating lasting change. Whether you've struggled with weight, self-acceptance, or the societal pressures of body image, this episode is a powerful reminder that true transformation starts from within.

"Your New Year Resolution Secret Revealed | Conversations with a Chiropractor" Start your new year with intention and positivity in this inspiring episode of Conversations with a Chiropractor! Dr. Stephanie Wautier explores the science and mindset behind successful resolutions, highlighting how positive self-talk can transform your goals and your life. Drawing insights from the Mayo Clinic, Dr. Masaru Emoto's Rice Experiment, and her own reflections, Dr. Stephanie shares practical tools to shift your mindset, nurture self-worth, and approach the new year with renewed energy. This episode is packed with affirmations, actionable tips, and powerful anecdotes to help you embrace the belief that you are worthy of success, abundance, and love—just as you are.

Stephanie's Holiday Scandinavian Sentiments | Conversations with a Chiropractor In this special holiday episode of Conversations with a Chiropractor, Dr. Stephanie Wautier shares her heartwarming reflections on Scandinavian heritage, cherished family traditions, and the simple joys of the season. From the comforting aroma of cardamom bread baking in the kitchen to embracing the essence of hygge (cozy comfort), Stephanie invites us to slow down, find peace, and connect with what truly matters during the holidays. Whether you're honoring old traditions or creating new ones, this episode offers inspiration to savor the season's beauty and warmth—one small moment at a time.

Fancy Free: The Creative Genius Behind Marquette's Premiere Curated Resale Shop | Conversations with a Chiropractor In this episode of Conversations with a Chiropractor, Dr. Stephanie Wautier welcomes Greta Hillstrom, the inspiring owner of Fancy Free, Marquette's premiere curated resale shop. Greta's journey, from her eclectic upbringing to becoming a local business owner, is a testament to creativity, resilience, and the power of community. She shares the heartfelt stories behind the treasures in her shop, her philosophy of living “fancy free,” and the passion that drives her to connect with people through art, music, and secondhand finds. Join us as we explore how Greta turned her vision into a vibrant community hub and hear the beautiful original song that encapsulates her unique journey.

Heart and Hustle: Holly Smith's Michigan Made Story | Conversations with a Chiropractor In this heartfelt episode of Conversations with a Chiropractor, Dr. Stephanie Wautier welcomes Holly Smith, owner of Michigan Made in the Upper Peninsula, to share her story of resilience, family values, and dedication to community. Holly opens up about the challenges she's faced as a single mom, a hockey mom, and an advocate for her son with autism—all while building a business that proudly supports local artisans and showcases the best of Michigan. With humor and wisdom, Holly reflects on her journey, the impact of family, and her passion for creating a space that uplifts the community. Through her candid stories, she inspires with her mantra of finding joy in the little things and embracing every day with a positive spirit.

Brainwaves & Breakthroughs: Inside Neurofit Marquette's Approach to Neurofeedback | Conversations with a Chiropractor In this episode of Conversations with a Chiropractor, Dr. Stephanie Wautier dives into the transformative world of brainwaves and neurofeedback with special guest Kami from Neurofit Marquette. Kami, a certified neurofeedback practitioner, explains how tuning into our brain's natural rhythms can improve mental health, focus, and overall well-being. Neurofeedback, a therapeutic approach that displays real-time brain activity, is becoming a powerful tool for managing stress, anxiety, ADHD, and more—without medication. Kami shares inspiring stories of transformation through neurofeedback and guides us on how to harness the power of brainwaves for healing, personal growth, and cognitive breakthroughs.

They Said It's Rare—She Said Bring It On! Faith and Grit Through Life-Changing Diagnoses | Conversations with a Chiropractor In this moving episode of Conversations With a Chiropractor, Dr. Stephanie Wautier sits down with Shawn Heuke to uncover an incredible story of resilience. Faced with multiple rare health challenges—hyperparathyroidism, atrial fibrillation, and an acoustic neuroma—Shawn opens up about her journey from diagnosis through the day-to-day realities of managing her conditions. Her story reflects not just the physical battles but the emotional strength, faith, and support systems that keep her moving forward. Shawn's commitment to raising awareness for those navigating similar paths reminds listeners that they're not alone, and her words offer inspiration, community, and hope.

Highly Decorated Vietnam Veteran Shares 30 Years of Service: From Morocco to the Mafia | Conversations With a Chiropractor In this gripping episode of Conversations With a Chiropractor, Dr. Stephanie Wautier interviews Les Thatcher, a highly decorated Vietnam veteran with over 30 years of service. Les shares incredible stories from his military career, including surviving ambushes in Vietnam, earning a Bronze Star with three Oak Leaf Clusters, and working with the Green Berets. From life-saving missions involving the King of Morocco to encounters with the Mafia in Italy, Les' journey is one of bravery, resilience, and unforgettable experiences.

From Profound Loss to Community Healing: Moxie Moms 906 | Conversations With a Chiropractor In this heartfelt episode of Conversations With a Chiropractor, Dr. Stephanie Wautier speaks with Megan, founder of Moxie Moms 906. Megan shares her journey through the loss of her daughter Delaney, which inspired the creation of Moxie Moms 906, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting mothers who've experienced miscarriage, stillbirth, or infant loss. This episode honors Delaney and the community's collective grief, highlighting the strength found in shared healing.

Why I Left Nursing: A Journey to Chiropractic Care | Conversations With a Chiropractor In this heartfelt episode of Conversations With a Chiropractor, Dr. Stephanie Wautier shares her deeply personal journey from nursing to chiropractic care. Stephanie opens up about her experiences in nursing, the challenges she faced, and the pivotal moment that led her to leave the profession. From caring for critically ill patients to finding her true calling in chiropractic, this episode offers insight into the motivations behind her career change and the lessons learned along the way.

From Convent to KROCK: A Journey of Resilience | Conversations With a Chiropractor In this episode of Conversations With a Chiropractor, Dr. Stephanie Wautier sits down with Jan to explore her unique life journey. From growing up as a twin, spending years in a convent, to becoming a key player at KROCK radio, Jan shares a rich tapestry of stories. Her resilience shines through as she recounts lessons from her family, career, and her fight with cancer, offering listeners an inspiring tale of faith, love, and life's unexpected twists.

Finding Faith, Family, and Life Lessons | Conversations with a Chiropractor In this heartfelt episode of Conversations with a Chiropractor, Dr. Stephanie Wautier sits down with a Midwest couple to explore their life journey. From childhood memories and marriage advice to life lessons learned in Europe and transitioning back to civilian life, this episode offers wisdom, warmth, and a touch of nostalgia. Join the conversation for insights on love, resilience, and the beauty of living with purpose.

A Look Back: Memorable Conversations and Lessons Learned | Conversations With a Chiropractor In this special episode of Conversations With a Chiropractor, Dr. Stephanie Wautier reflects on some of the most memorable moments from past guests. With highlights from Bertha, Bill, and Daniele, this episode showcases inspiring stories of healing, personal growth, and resilience. Whether you're new or have followed along for a while, this recap provides insight into the heart of the podcast's mission: health, healing, and transformation.

Daniele Carol: Photography, Wellness, and the Stories Behind Her Upcoming Book | Conversations With a Chiropractor In this insightful episode of Conversations With a Chiropractor, Dr. Stephanie Wautier is joined by Daniele Carol, a talented photographer who has navigated her way from the world of film photography to becoming a wellness advocate and book creator. Daniele shares her journey, from her early days in photography to building a successful business in Marquette. She also opens up about her latest project: a coffee table book that captures the beauty of aging, featuring portraits of people aged one to one hundred.

A Life Rebuilt: Tim Connors' Path to Wellness | Conversations With a Chiropractor In this powerful episode of Conversations With a Chiropractor, Dr. Stephanie Wautier sits down with Tim Connors to discuss his journey of resilience and recovery. Tim shares how a life-changing fall led him down a path of self-reflection, healing, and transformation. From building a family in Marquette to facing unexpected challenges, Tim's story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the power of perseverance.

From Small Town Girl to Cosmetic Mogul: 80 Years of Resilience | Conversations With a Chiropractor In this inspiring episode of Conversations With a Chiropractor, Dr. Stephanie Wautier sits down with an extraordinary guest who shares her journey from humble beginnings in a small town to becoming a successful cosmetic mogul. With over 80 years of resilience, she reflects on the challenges and triumphs in business, balancing family life, and navigating personal loss. Tune in for heartwarming stories, surprising anecdotes—including an electrocution incident—and a testament to perseverance and gratitude.

Episode 13: From Marquette to the Spotlight: Faye Elder's Rise Amid Adversity | Conversations With a Chiropractor In this compelling episode of "Conversations with a Chiropractor," Dr. Stephanie Wautier chats with Faye Elder, a Marquette native who transformed personal challenges into a thriving career in the performance arts. Faye opens up about her journey from a tumultuous childhood to grueling performance schedules, vocal struggles, and encounters with iconic celebrities. She also reflects on mental health and the impact of family struggles on her personal growth, sharing how humor and resilience have shaped her life.

Episode 12: Navigating Long COVID Complications: Deb Jensen's Story | Conversations With a Chiropractor Welcome to another powerful episode of "Conversations With a Chiropractor." I'm Dr. Stephanie Wautier, and today, I'm joined by Deb Jensen, a remarkable woman whose journey through the complications of long COVID is truly inspiring. In this episode, Deb shares her harrowing experience with transverse myelitis, the impact of the condition on her life, and the unwavering faith that guided her through challenging times. Her story is a testament to resilience and the importance of a strong support system.

Episode 11: Partnering in Wellness with Jamie Thayer | Conversations With a Chiropractor Welcome to another insightful episode of "Conversations With a Chiropractor." I'm Dr. Stephanie Wautier, and today, I'm delighted to sit down with my business partner, Jamie Thayer. Jamie and I co-own Glow Laser Aesthetics in Marquette, Michigan, and we've had an extraordinary journey over the past five years. In this episode, Jamie shares her background, the inception of Glow Laser Aesthetics, and the impactful outreach programs we've initiated. Get ready to be inspired by Jamie's dedication to wellness, education, and community service.

Episode 10: Yooper Wisdom with Kim Kee | Conversations with a Chiropractor Welcome to another enlightening episode of "Conversations with a Chiropractor." I'm Dr. Stephanie Wautier, and today, I'm thrilled to sit down with Kim Kee, a renowned craniosacral therapist and healer. In this episode, Kim shares her journey into craniosacral therapy, her impactful work with babies, and her inspiring project, Yooper Wisdom, which includes a book, podcast, and an upcoming TV series. Prepare to be inspired by Kim's wisdom and her dedication to healing.

Episode 9: Catching Up with Cat | Conversations With a Chiropractor Welcome to another insightful episode of "Conversations With a Chiropractor." I'm Dr. Stephanie Wautier, and today, I'm excited to catch up with my friend Cat. In this episode, we dive into Cat's experiences working in higher education, her journey through motherhood, and the challenges and triumphs she's faced along the way. Get ready for a heartfelt and engaging conversation that explores personal growth, the pressures of achievements, and the realities of modern motherhood.

Episode 8: Journey to Haiti and Spiritual Awakening with Susan La Clear | Conversations With a Chiropractor Welcome to another inspiring episode of "Conversations With a Chiropractor." I'm Dr. Stephanie Wautier, and today, I'm excited to sit down with my college roommate, Susan La Clear. In this episode, Susan shares her incredible journey from college to Haiti, where she experienced profound spiritual growth and faced numerous challenges. Prepare to be inspired by Susan's story of faith, resilience, and transformation.

Episode 7: Reconnecting After 25 Years with Michelle and Aileen | Conversations With a Chiropractor Welcome to another heartwarming episode of "Conversations With a Chiropractor." I'm Dr. Stephanie Wautier, and today, I'm thrilled to reconnect with two dear friends from elementary school, Michelle and Aileen. It's been 25 years since we've all been together, and in this episode, we traverse memory lane, sharing laughter, tears, and unforgettable stories.

Episode 6: From Finance to Healing - Dr. Jill Bala's Journey | Conversations With a Chiropractor Welcome to another insightful episode of "Conversations With a Chiropractor." I'm Dr. Stephanie Wautier, and today I sit down with Dr. Jill Bala, my friend from Palmer College of Chiropractic. Dr. Jill shares her inspiring journey from a successful career in finance in San Francisco to becoming a passionate chiropractor and nutrition expert in Traverse City.

Episode 5: Sibling Dynamics and Childhood Reflections | Conversations With a Chiropractor Welcome to another heartfelt episode of "Conversations With a Chiropractor." I'm Dr. Stephanie Wautier, and today I'm continuing the conversation with my sisters Anna and Melanie, the third and fourth of the five Woodaz girls. In this episode, we delve into the unique dynamics of middle and later childhood, exploring the influences of birth order, sibling relationships, and family upbringing.

Episode 4: Woodaz Family Fun with Heather, Jackie, and Tom | Conversations With a Chiropractor Join Dr. Stephanie Wautier in this special episode of "Conversations With a Chiropractor," where she sits down with her father, Tom Woodaz, and her sisters, Heather and Jackie. This episode is filled with laughter, memories, and insightful discussions about family dynamics, birth order, and personal growth.

Episode 3: A Life of Resilience and Transformation with Bill Painter | Conversations With a Chiropractor Join Dr. Stephanie Wautier in "Conversations with a Chiropractor" as she engages in a heartfelt conversation with Bill Painter. Bill shares deep, personal stories of his extraordinary journey through life, marked by severe childhood trauma, overcoming alcoholism, and finding redemption through a 12-step program. The episode highlights Bill's resilience, wisdom, and the profound impact his experiences have had on his community and family. Tune in for an intimate look into a life filled with perseverance, healing, and heartfelt human connections.

Join Dr. Stephanie Wautier as she delves deep into the intriguing world of electromagnetic frequencies with her guest, Curt Hewitt. This episode explores the lesser-known impacts of "dirty electricity" and the profound benefits of grounding. Curt shares his personal journey of health discovery, which intersects with innovative wellness practices and the scientific backing behind them.

Episode 1: The Century-Long Journey of Bertha Nix Dive into the life of Bertha Nix, a remarkable woman whose 98 years have seen the world change in unimaginable ways. Hosted by Dr. Stephanie Wautier, this inaugural episode of "Conversations With a Chiropractor" explores the depth of human experience through one woman's extraordinary story. What to Listen For: A Century of Changes: Bertha shares her vivid memories of the past century, from her unique birth during the 1920s to the dramatic transformations in modern living. World War II Through Personal Letters: Discover the intimate side of a global conflict as Bertha recounts her correspondence with a friend during the war, offering a personal glimpse into the era. Life on a Finnish-American Farm: Experience the trials and triumphs of farm life through Bertha's stories of family, hard work, and survival during tough times. The Power of Resilience: Bertha's personal tales of loss, love, and longevity, showcasing her strength and the support of her community. Musical Heritage: Learn how Bertha maintained a connection to her roots and passions through music, despite the challenges life threw her way. Legacy of Love and Loss: Reflect on the poignant aspects of aging as Bertha discusses outliving some of her children and continuing her legacy through her extensive family. Finnish Traditions Kept Alive: From saunas to traditional crafts, explore how Bertha keeps her Finnish heritage vibrant in her daily life. Stay Connected: Like and Follow Us on Facebook: Stay updated and engaged by following our page at www.facebook.com/WautierWellness for the latest podcast updates and wellness tips. Subscribe, Rate, and Review: Love the podcast? Subscribe on platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts. Don't forget to rate and review us—it helps us grow and continue bringing you great content. Contact Us: Interested in sponsorship opportunities or want to get in touch? Email us at conversationswithachiropractor@gmail.com. Credits: Podcast production by Ploss Vocal. Interested in starting your own podcast? Learn more at www.voiceover.work. Pour a cup of coffee and settle in for "Conversations With a Chiropractor."