Dr. Michael MacIntyre is a chiropractor and co-owner of Strada Health and Fitness in Bedford. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Kinesiology from Brock University where he graduated on the Dean's Honours List. While at Brock, he was a member of the varsity men's hockey team where he was recognized for his athletic and academic success by being named to the CIS academic All-Canadian team on numerous occasions. He then went on to Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College in Toronto where he graduated with cum laude distinction. Dr. MacIntyre's passion for knowledge and patient care fuels his drive for continued professional development. He is a full body Active Release Techniques provider, a Contemporary Medical Acupuncture provider, and is Graston Technique certified. Prior to moving to Nova Scotia, Dr. MacIntyre founded Heritage Chiropractic and Wellness, a successful multidisciplinary clinic in his home town of Sioux Lookout, Ontario. He kindly donated his time this week to tackle our 7 Questions!
1. How did you get started in business?
When I graduated chiropractic college, I drove across Canada to the West Coast and back, visiting various clinics and interviewing for potential associate opportunities. I had a specific vision in mind and couldn't get excited about working somewhere else, so I started my own business. I didn't know how, so I relied on family, friends, colleagues, and the local Business Development Centre.
2. What is your morning routine?
I either do a workout or I have a short mobility routine that I go through. Then coffee! I typically listen to the news or podcasts on the way to the office. I reply to emails when I get there. Then check the schedule and get on with my day.
3. What is your favourite thing about your career?
The people. The relationships that I have developed over the years, from getting to know and caring for patients, to working with our amazing staff. I have developed friendships that will last a lifetime.
4. What's a goal you're working towards right now?
I am currently trying to improve my sleep habits. I'm more productive when I am rested. I have been tracking the quality of my sleep with an app called Sleep Cycle. My goal is to get a minimum of 7.5 hours of sleep and >80% quality - 5 nights a week.
5. Who inspires you and why?
My partner in business and life, Dr. Christina Bagnell. She works so hard and is so dedicated, motivated, and committed to being better every day. She helps push me to do the same. To get out of my comfort zone, take risks, and try new things.
6. When was the last time you failed spectacularly at something?
I tend to view these things as learning experiences rather than failures. Everyday there is something that I feel like I could have done better. I learn from it and try not to make the same mistake twice. I read a quote this morning that sums this up: "the only time you can fail is if you give up; if you never give up, you can never fail".
7. What's the best advice you've ever received?
My dad used to say "you can't soar with the eagles if you're running around with turkeys" - surround yourself with people that motivate and challenge you to be better everyday.
