In this episode of Modern Chiropractic Mastery, Dr. Kevin Christie interviews Dr. Brennan Donahue, a new MCM coach, about his journey from graduating Logan in 2016 to strategically building a sports-based practice near St. Louis.

Dr. Donahue shares starting in 200 square feet inside a CrossFit gym before moving into a 1,400-square-foot clinic, with plans to double space, add another chiropractor, expand team roles, and grow rehab and cash-based services while remaining in-network with insurance.

They discuss leadership through core values, delegation, and maintaining high standards, plus the importance of vision, patience, and sustainable growth over quick “launch” results.

Dr. Kevin Christie explains how chiropractors can position themselves as the go-to disc injury expert in their community using an “audience builder” framework. He outlines an XY-axis positioning concept (expert vs. non-expert; generalist vs. specific) and emphasizes that clinical skill is essential but visibility and perception in the community determine whether patients see you as an expert.

Dr. Christie recommends defining ideal patient psychographics before demographics, then selecting target groups prone to disc injuries and identifying offline and online congregation points to reach them. He also applies Donald Miller’s StoryBrand messaging model to disc-injured golfers, clarifying external, internal, and philosophical conflicts to craft compelling content and outreach.

Dr. Christie stresses that strong marketing must be matched by strong outcomes.

On this episode of Modern Chiropractic Mastery, Dr. Kevin Christie welcomes Dr. Rob Pesale, a Stratford, Connecticut chiropractor who has been in practice since 1990, and now works alongside his son, Dr. Drew Pesale. Their conversation explores the lessons that come with long-term success, including the importance of community within the MCM Mastermind, embracing diverse perspectives, and staying committed to your path despite inevitable challenges.

Dr. Pesale reflects on the early days of building his practice—personally knocking on 3,200 doors over eight months and reaching more than 200 weekly visits within just four weeks. His story highlights the power of relentless work ethic, grassroots marketing, and evolving with modern digital strategies. He also shares a hard financial lesson from losing approximately $1.5 million during the 1999–2000 dot-com crash, underscoring the importance of diversification and steady, conservative financial planning.

Throughout the episode, key themes emerge: staying genuinely engaged with each patient, committing to lifelong learning (including advanced training and fellowship work), developing a clear niche, seeking mentorship, and building resilience.