Ep 26: Beyond the Needle w/Dr. Haley Parker, DAcCHM, L.Ac.

Haunani sits down with the unstoppable Dr. Haley Parker, DAOM, L.Ac., and Director for Community Outreach and Partnership for VUIM, for a raw, no‑filter dive into what it really takes to push acupuncture forward in a healthcare system that doesn’t always play nice. From “falling forward” in their careers to battling legislative roadblocks, building community from the ground up, and redefining balance in a profession that demands everything, these two pull back the curtain on the grit, passion, and purpose driving acupuncture in the United States in 2026. It’s candid, energizing, and it asks, “what will your legacy be?” If you’re an acupuncturist, a student, a patient, or just curious about the heartbeat behind holistic and integrative medicine, this conversation will remind you behind every needle is a practitioner who deeply cares about reducing suffering in this world and that vision is carried out in many ways. Afterall, not all peacekeepers are quiet meditators. Listen in on two practitioners who are stirring the pot, uplifting their profession, and building bridges for others.Dr. Haley Parker, DAcCHM, L.Ac., Dipl. EAM is a licensed Doctor of East Asian Medicine practicing across Virginia, Maryland, Washington, D.C., New Mexico, Florida, Georgia, New York, and New Jersey. As Director of Community Outreach and Partnerships at VUIM since 2021, she has been leading clinic administration, academic integration, and outreach programs across multiple campuses. A former Division I athlete and expert in sports-related and emotional health, Haley has over 15 years of clinical, educational, and advocacy experience. She serves on the National Certification Board for Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine (NCBAHM) Professional Ethics & Disciplinary Committee, the Virginia Board of Medicine Acupuncture Advisory Committee, and the Acupuncture Society of Virginia Board. Passionate about teaching, community engagement, and promoting East Asian Medicine through patient care, media, and publications, she is dedicated to advancing integrative medicine and empowering the next generation of practitioners.Do you have something to add to this conversation? Go to Yinspiredpod.com and to leave your kind comments, questions, and keep the conversation going. This is the only place to interact with the Yinspired host and guests.Enjoying Yinspired?Please remember to share a favorite episode with someone you love and subscribe to Yinspired wherever you listen. If you could leave a five-star review and rating on Apple Podcast, that would help others find Yinspired. If that’s not your thing, don’t worry.Links to all episode show notes, guests' bios and work, and transcripts can be found at Yinspired.substack.com/podcastShow Notes & ShoutoutsAcupuncture Society of Virginia Get InvolvedVirginia University of Integrative MedicineVUIM Clinic in Virginia, New Jersey, Georgia - Mention hearing “Dr. Haley Parker on Yinspired podcast” to receive a discount on your next treatment.IG: @vuimclinicFB: Virginia University of Integrative Medicine ClinicDr. Lixing Lao, PhDChapters00:00 - Introduction to the episode and guest Dr. Haley Parker00:23 - Context of the advocacy efforts around dry needling legislation in Virginia, defining education standards02:36 - The difference between dry needling and acupuncture explained04:31 - The emotional and human side of advocacy work05:16 - How practitioners can get involved locally and the impact of community action06:37 - The value of authentic leadership and collaboration07:28 - Advocacy as a professional duty and the importance of unity among practitioners16:44 - The ongoing fight for recognition in the healthcare field and the need for proactive strategies17:42 - The importance of understanding and supporting each other across different backgrounds19:15 - How to bridge gaps within the profession and beyond20:55 - The bigger picture: integrating Chinese medicine into mainstream healthcare22:14 - The collective impact of practitioners and the importance of unity23:43 - The future of holistic healthcare and the role of acupuncturists25:15 - Embracing diversity, authenticity, and personal growth in the profession28:47 - Reflecting on legacy, service, and leaving a meaningful imprint31:16 - Closing thoughts: get involved, stay inspired, and make a difference This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit yinspired.substack.com