In8 Thots
“Welcome to IN8 THOTS — the chiropractic podcast dedicated to the timeless wisdom of the Palmer Green Books. I’m Dr. Joe Sheppard, and in each episode, I summarize, highlight and read from the original writings of B.J. Palmer and the pioneers of chiropractic philosophy, breaking down the principles, discussing the meaning behind the words, and highlighting the key concepts that shaped our profession. From the subluxation specific to innate intelligence, this podcast is about preserving the philosophy, understanding the science, and applying the art of chiropractic in today’s world. Let’s open the Green Books and think from Above-Down, Inside-Out.”
In8 Thots
IN8 THOTS Introduction-Why The Green Books Matter
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IN8 THOTS — Introduction
Why the Green Books Still Matter
In the Introductory episode of IN8 THOTS, Dr. Joe Sheppard explores why the Palmer Green Books continue to influence chiropractors more than a century after they were written.
This episode dives into the foundational philosophy behind chiropractic and the timeless ideas introduced by B.J. Palmer, including Innate Intelligence, vertebral subluxation, neurological interference, adaptability, and the principle that “the power that made the body heals the body.”
Dr. Joe discusses why chiropractic was never intended to be merely symptom-based care, but rather a philosophy centered around nervous system function, adaptation, and specific correction.
Topics covered in this episode include:
• Why the Green Books still matter today
• The philosophy behind specific chiropractic
• The meaning of vertebral subluxation
• Innate Intelligence and organized healing
• Why symptoms alone may not define health
• The nervous system’s role in adaptation and function
• The evolution of “The Subluxation Specific — The Adjustment Specific”
• Why B.J. Palmer emphasized precision over force
• How specificity shaped modern chiropractic philosophy
This episode also introduces the upcoming Green Book series, where we will study and discuss major chiropractic principles including:
• Universal Intelligence
• The safety pin cycle
• Tone
• Upper cervical philosophy
• Holding adjustments
• Specific analysis
• Neurological adaptability
• And the evolution of chiropractic philosophy from above-down, inside-out
Whether you’re a chiropractor, chiropractic student, patient, or someone curious about the foundational principles behind chiropractic care, this episode invites you to think deeper about health, healing, and the nervous system.
Open the Green Books. Clear your thoughts. And think from Above-Down, Inside-Out.
Hosted by Dr. Joe Sheppard.