Episode 07 - Blending East & West: Dr. Robert Bonakdar on Integrative Medicine, Mentorship & Meaning in Medicine

In this episode of the Root Cause Business of Medicine Podcast, Dr. Erik Lundquist with his brother Dr. Davin Lundquist interview longtime friend and integrative medicine leader Dr. Robert Bonakdar, Director of Pain Medicine at Scripps Center for Integrative Medicine. Robert shares his journey from early inspiration in Iran to a formative fellowship in Asia, where exposure to Eastern healing practices—such as acupuncture, Tai Chi, and meditation—deeply shaped his medical philosophy.He describes the challenges of maintaining integrative ideals during traditional medical training, and the importance of mentors who helped him blend functional, conventional, and Eastern approaches. Robert discusses building an integrative pain program within a major health system, navigating reimbursement obstacles, and using team-based care to stay financially viable in insurance-based medicine.The conversation also explores burnout, the power of teaching, the value of lifestyle medicine, and how personal practices like Tai Chi and writing sustain his well-being. They touch on the future of integrative medicine and how AI could complement clinicians by handling complexity and freeing physicians to focus on human connection.NSCC brings together a world-class faculty to translate emerging science spanning botanicals, chronic disease, neurodivergence, environmental toxins, and AI-enhanced nutrition into actionable clinical practice. Through immersive sessions and hands-on learning, you’ll sharpen your skills in assessing supplement quality, dosing, safety, and efficacy. Elevate your integrative care approach and earn AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™ while doing it.Register at the link belowNutrition & Supplementation in Clinical Care Conference 2026