Episode 33 - Healing Touch: How Myofascial Release Changed My Life and Practice with Peter Podbielski
In this moving and deeply personal episode of the Myofascial Health Podcast, host Unu welcomes Dr. Peter Podbielski—affectionately known by peers as “The Polish Prince”—to share his extraordinary journey through healing, intuition, and the power of Myofascial Release (MFR). Peter's story begins in Poland, where he was trained in manual therapy with a fearless approach to touch and connection. After immigrating to the U.S. with almost no English,
Peter faced hardship and tragedy, including the death of his brother in a devastating construction accident. These formative experiences ultimately pushed him to rediscover his true calling: helping others heal through physical therapy. Peter walks us through his serendipitous re-entry into healthcare, the challenges of working in a touch-averse American medical system, and how a single moment of intuition—walking into a PT clinic in Brooklyn—sparked a chain reaction that led him to earn his Doctorate in Physical Therapy and later discover the John F. Barnes Myofascial Release approach. This episode is rich with insight into the differences between conventional and holistic care, the spiritual and emotional layers of healing, and the critical role of intuition in therapy. Peter shares vivid stories of healing—including an extraordinary moment where he helped realign his son’s fractured clavicle with nothing more than gentle, intuitive touch and presence. He also opens up about how his commitment to healing transformed not only his patients but also his relationships with his own family.
Together, Unu and Peter explore the philosophy of MFR as both a science and an art form. They talk about letting go of ego, the importance of “getting out of your own way,” and trusting the wisdom of the body. Peter describes his first unwinding experience at an MFR seminar, the skepticism he overcame, and how profound shifts in his own body solidified his belief in the work. He even reflects on a spiritual vision he experienced while being supported by colleagues—one that cemented his understanding of leadership, family, and legacy. Throughout the episode, themes of vulnerability, resilience, and faith echo powerfully. Peter's story is not just about becoming a better therapist—it's about becoming a more grounded, compassionate human being.
Whether you’re a therapist, a healer, a patient exploring alternative treatments, or someone on a path of personal growth, this episode will inspire you to trust your instincts, embrace your humanity, and reconsider what’s truly possible in healing.
Work with Peter Podbielski: If you're in Arizona and would like to work with Dr. Peter Podbielski, you can schedule a session or learn more at:
📞 Call his office directly to book an appointment.
